Canterbury Historic River Tours

Canterbury Historic River Tours boat mooring

One of the best ways to explore historic Canterbury is by river. Canterbury Historic River Tours provide regular tours from April to October along the river in flat-bottomed punts, departing from the Old Weavers House on St Peter's Street. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and take in some of Canterbury's most historic sights.

The very first of these sights is located immediately beside the departure dock; this is the old medieval ducking stool used to punish scolds or detect witches. The Old Weavers House itself is a lovely half-timbered historic building that may date to the 13th century.

Further along the river, you pass the island where Greyfriars priory was built in the 13th century. You will also see the last remaining parts of Blackfriars monastery, 12th-century Eastbridge Hospital, 12th century King's Bridge, and more historic locations on either side of the river.

The tours guides are also your boat pilot, and they provide an entertaining commentary and are willing to answer any questions you might have about the history of Canterbury or any of the sights you pass along the way.

Tours leave every 15-20 minutes and booking is not generally required. I very much enjoyed my excursion with Canterbury Historic River Tours and would definitely recommend it as a good way to get the most of a visit to Canterbury.