So you’ve chosen to study at either the University of Kent (Canterbury campus), Canterbury Christ Church University or the University of Creative Arts (Canterbury campus), which means the exciting city of Canterbury is going to be your home for the next three years. With a rich history that dates back to before the Middle Ages, Canterbury has become a unique and captivating city that offers plenty of things to see and do in between your studies.
The ideal home away from home
With a lot to explore and experience, it’s important that where you choose to live offers the perfect setting to allow you to focus on your studies, meet new friends and live comfortably in your new city. Luckily for you, all of our city centre properties offer a variety of student rooms in Canterbury that are designed with the student lifestyle in mind. Check them out for yourself and see how they can enhance your time in Canterbury:
Palamon Court (CT1 2YA) – 4.2 on Google Reviews*
Rhodaus Court (CT1 2RJ) – 4.7 on Google Reviews*
Currus Court (CT1 2RH) – 4.7 on Google Reviews*
Canterbury Student Manor (CT1 1GA) – 4.3 on Google Reviews*
*Google Reviews as of April 2024 – Subject to change
Now you’ve found the ideal place to call home, it’s time to get out there and explore! (during your free time of course, we don’t want you to miss those all-important lectures and assignments). With plenty to local sights to see and experiences to be had, you’re guaranteed to not get bored:
Centuries worth of history
Being established hundreds of years ago in the Middle ages as a pilgrimage site, Canterbury offers a vast number of historic sites to explore and learn about. Step back in time (over 1,000 years) and see what life was like and visit 3 world heritage sites: Canterbury Cathedral, St Martin’s Church and St Augustine’s Abbey, famed for their impressive preservation of places of worship.
Around the perimeter of the centre, you’ll also notice the distinctive Canterbury city walls – built by the Romans as defensive measures to protect the city. Whilst much of the wall is long gone with the evolution of the city, sections of the remarkable structures remain – ideal for walking across when the sun is shining. Go on a walking tour of the city with your friends and stop off for a picnic in one of the landscaped gardens.
Canterbury’s bustling city centre
Enclosed within the Roman walls, you’ll find Canterbury’s medieval yet modern city centre, which is home to the Whitefriars shopping centre – packed with a variety of shops, restaurants, and places to visit. With your favourite high street shops and independent boutiques, established eateries and unique restaurants, it offers something for everyone to enjoy.
If you ever need a break from retail therapy and eating exceptional food (which we’re sure isn’t very likely), the city centre also offers a range of leisure activities to do independently or with friends, including historic river tours and punting along the Great Stour, take in some art at The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, or visit the Dane John Gardens which houses the Simmons Memorial and offers up-close views of the Roman city walls.
The Student Lifestyle
Part of the fun of going to university is experiencing the ‘student lifestyle’ – meeting new people and establishing friendships, going on nights out and learning new things. The universities’ societies, sports clubs and student union events are a great place to meet new people, try something new and pursue your hobbies. Get involved and meet like-minded people!
Canterbury’s eclectic selection of vibrant bars and clubs ensure that your night out is a memorable one! From live music venues (Lady Luck and The Ballroom), bustling dance clubs (Club Chemistry and The Venue) and unique cocktail bars (Houdini’s Magic Bar and The Pound at One Pound Lane), all provide the ultimate settings for hanging out with friends.
Take in the surroundings.
Adventure outside the city and you’ll so many places to visit, including; the laid-back coastal town of Whitstable, the Kent Downs National Landscape where you can take time out and be at one with nature. Canterbury is also well connected to the rest of the UK by public transport links, allowing you to visit other places for the day. On the train, you’ll be in London in no time, so trips to the big city are quick and easy.
Sounds good right? Well, this is just the start of what Canterbury can offer during your studies. There’s so much more to experience and we’re sure you’ll have a great time.