Premier Inn Canterbury

Canterbury is one of the UK's major tourism cities and still retains much of its distinctive historical architecture, despite suffering bombings in the Second World War. From the city's most iconic landmark Canterbury Cathedral, seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, to the medieval town centre and 11th century Canterbury Castle, the city has much to offer cultural visitors, while the new Whitefriars development has served to make Canterbury a popular destination for shopping trips in the Kent region.

We have a number of hotels only a short drive from Canterbury, ideal whether you're travelling around the coast or further inland. Our hotel in the fishing town of Whitstable is only five miles from Canterbury city centre, with convenient road access in and around the city, while our hotels near Canterbury in Ashford, Folkestone and Dover all benefit from close proximity to major transport networks, making it easy to reach Canterbury.

Canterbury is special for its rich history, stunning architecture and strong literary connections. It’s home to the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England. The city played a key role in medieval pilgrimage, made legendary by Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales. With its cobbled streets, ancient walls and half-timbered houses, Canterbury blends old-world charm with a lively modern atmosphere. 

Absolutely—Canterbury is definitely worth visiting! Whether you're into history, architecture, shopping or just exploring, there's something here for everyone. You can tour Canterbury Cathedral, stroll along the medieval streets or take a boat ride on the River Stour. It’s also easy to reach from London, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. 

Canterbury is just a short drive from the coast, with several beaches nearby. The closest is Whitstable, about 20 minutes by car or train, known for its pebbly beach and seafood. Herne Bay is another nearby option with a more traditional feel, and Margate, Ramsgate and Broadstairs are all within 40–50 minutes and offer sandy beaches and family-friendly fun. So, while Canterbury isn’t coastal, beach day trips are super easy. 

Yes—there’s plenty to do in Canterbury! You can visit the Cathedral, explore Canterbury Roman Museum and wander the historic city walls. For something different, take a guided river punt tour, explore the Westgate Gardens or catch a show at the Marlowe Theatre. Whether you’re into culture, food or just soaking up the scenery, Canterbury has a little bit of everything. 

Yes, Canterbury is great for shopping. The city centre has a nice mix of high-street favourites, independent boutiques and quirky gift shops. Whitefriars Shopping Centre is the main retail hub, while nearby King’s Mile and Butchery Lane are perfect for browsing unique finds, vintage goods and local products.  

Definitely! Canterbury is very walkable, with most major attractions, shops and restaurants all within a compact city centre. You can easily explore the Cathedral, museums, gardens and riverside paths on foot. The cobbled streets and narrow lanes make walking the best way to take in the city's sights and discover its hidden gems. 

Flex – Pay now or on arrival, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Our most flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 1pm on the day of arrival. You can also amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Semi-Flex – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to three full days before arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to three full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Advance – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 28 full days before arrival, free to amend thereafter until the day of arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 28 full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Standard – Pay now, non-refundable. Free to amend booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Slightly flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel and get a full refund, but you can amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Non-Flex – Pay now. No amends or refunds. Our least flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel or amend your stay after booking.

Our standard check-in time is 3pm. For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels. 

Checkout is by 12 noon on your departure date. If luggage storage is available, our teams will be happy to store any bags for you if you’d like to check out before 12pm.

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location. 

For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels. 

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location. 

In 2020 we launched Premier Inn CleanProtect™, our rigorous, daily cleaning method that’s used throughout our UK & Ireland hotels. Developed in partnership with Diversey, a global leader in cleaning and hygiene products for the healthcare and hospitality industries, our promise seeks to give you extra peace of mind so you can always book and stay with confidence.

Check-in - minimising contact at reception and providing hand sanitiser in most public areas for peace of mind. 

Bed linen and towels - laundering all our linen and towels at over 60°C to thermally disinfect them, so you can enjoy a great night’s sleep. We’ve also placed spare pillows in a zip-up bag, for extra peace of mind.

Equipping our teams - providing our team members with all the equipment and sanitisers they need, as well as always operating in the safest way possible for our teams and guests.

A generous serving of safety - you can relax knowing that enhanced cleaning measures are in place throughout our restaurants. Tables are cleaned between visits and contactless payment is in place too, so you can dine safely and comfortably with us every time.

Clean on request - if you'd like your room cleaned during your stay with us, just let us know at reception and use the handy door hanger on the back of your door by 12pm each day.

Most Premier Inns have specially-adapted rooms allowing easier access for customers with disabilities. If there is no specially-adapted room available at the hotel of your choice, we will be happy to offer you alternative accommodation at a nearby Premier Inn. If you have difficulty walking, but do not need a specially-adapted room, please feel free to request a room near reception on the ground floor for easy access. 

If you'd like get in touch, you can reach out to our specialist team via email at pi.accessible@whitbread.com or call us on 0333 0919 817 between 9am and 5pm Monday-Friday (calls charged at local rate).

Unfortunately, with the exception of trained assistance dogs, we don't allow pets to stay at our hotels.