Canterbury is full of history and while the Cathedral may hog the limelight in the eyes of the casual tourist, there are many other historical gems just waiting to be visited. Gazette reporter Dan Wright runs through 10 of the best you can see today.

1. Canterbury Cathedral.
It might be stating the obvious a tad but this wouldn’t be a very good list about Canterbury’s historical visitor attractions if we didn’t include its most iconic landmark. The Cathedral, in The Precincts, is one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England and is open throughout the year. With its history dating back to 597AD, the site is still used for local, regional and national services and events so it is worth checking before visiting if it is open.
Canterbury Cathedral, The Precincts, CT1 2EH. Visit www.canterbury-cathedral.org or call 01227 762862.

2. St Augustine’s Abbey.
Until its dissolution in 1538 during the English Reformation, St Augustine’s Abbey functioned as a monastery since it was founded in 598. The abbey, in Longport, is part of the Canterbury World Heritage Site but, as its situated outside the city walls, is sometimes missed by visitors. Although the ruins of the abbey are not substantial, its foundations still provide a sense of the layout and museum and free audio tour are also offered.
St Augustine’s Abbey, Longport, CT1 1PF. Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk.

3. City walls.
A sequence of defensive walls built around the city, the Romans built the first walls around Canterbury around 270AD. At least five gates were placed into the walls originally, with only one, the West Gate, still remaining. Accessible from many points, the wall at Dane John Gardens provides the best opportunity to walk on the walls, which are among the best preserved in the country. The present walls are medieval and have been widened and restored over the years.
City walls, Watling Street

4. Dane John mound.
Originally called the ‘donjon’ mound, the site is a former Roman cemetery anglicised to be called Dane John mound in later years. In 1800, a monument commemorating various civic reconstructions was added. Offering views across the city once you’ve climbed the path to the obelisk at its peak, the mound is worth the climb.
Dane John Gardens, Watling Street

5. Canterbury Castle.
It’s keep is the fifth largest in England but that’s all that remains of Canterbury Castle. It’s still worth a visit, though, and while the castle never saw any fighting, it’s today just a five minute walk from Canterbury East station. It was one of the three original royal castles in Kent (along with Dover and Rochester) and all three were soon built once the Battle of Hastings was over. Dover and bigger castles overshadowed Canterbury’s by the late 1300s and, after being turned into a prison, it was left to ruin by the 17th century.
Canterbury Castle, Castle Street, CT1 2PR

6. Eastbridge Hospital.
Founded in 1190, Eastbridge Hospital was built as a hostel for pilgrims after the death of St Thomas Becket. Almost immediately after his murder, pilgrims visited the city to see his tomb and the hospital initially prospered. Found in the city centre in the High Street, the hospital was turned into a school by 1569 and today the almhouses remain. Open all year between Monday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm, the hospital offers a historical alternative to the rows of shops lining the High Street.
Eastbridge Hospital, 25 High Street, CT1 2BD. Visit www.eastbridgehospital.org.uk or call 01227 471688.

7. St Martin’s Church.
Found just outside the city centre, St Martin’s Church is the earliest parish church in England. It is the oldest church in continuous use in the English-speaking world and, found in North Holmes Road just off St Martin’s Hill, it’s easy to find. The church, along with Canterbury Cathedral and St Augustine’s Abbey, forms part of the Canterbury World Heritage Site.
St Martin’s Church, North Holmes Road, CT1 1PW. Visit www.martinpaul.org.

8. The Canterbury Tales.
Offering a recreation of medieval life, the Canterbury Tales, in St. Margaret’s Street, is worth a trip as visitors can experience the sights and sounds of a bygone era. Nicely complementing the other attractions around the city, the Tales brings the history to life with Chaucer’s tales showing the city’s famous literary connection.
The Canterbury Tales, St Margaret’s Street, CT1 2TG. Visit www.canterburytales.org.uk or call 01227 479227.

9. St Dunstan’s Church.
When Thomas More, then one of the most powerful men in the realm, refused to bow to Henry VIII’s claim to be head of the church in England, he was executed in 1535. His head was thought to be brought to St Dunstan’s Church and the site, on the junction of London Road, is open to visitors today. Founded at the end of the 11th century, a full history and guide to the church is available.
St Dunstan’s Church, St Dunstans Street.

10. Canterbury Heritage Museum.
Once you’ve finished visiting the numerous historical sites around the city, a trip to the Canterbury Heritage Museum can make the history clear. The museum, in Stour Street, is housed in the ancient Poor Priests’ Hospital which, before even looking at the numerous collections inside it, is worth a visit as it boasts impressive medieval beamed roofs.
Canterbury Heritage Museum, Stour Street, CT1 2NR. Visit www.canterbury.co.uk/museums or call 01227 475202.