Punting Adventure with Westgate Punts on Canterbury River
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required as the punt is operated by the driver.
Overview
Drift quietly through Canterbury’s old town with Westgate Punts on a 60-minute journey that reveals Tudor tunnels, medieval ruins, and wild riverbanks. This intimate punting trip blends local history and natural beauty into an accessible, memorable outdoor experience.
Old City and Nature Reserve • 1 Hour • up to 3 people
Explore both the natural river and hidden waterways of the Roman canal on a 2 mile adventure
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About This Adventure
Experience a serene 60-minute journey through Canterbury's enchanting landscapes. Glide upriver past the historic Westgate Gardens and Greyfriars Island, then navigate through a Tudor tunnel. Discover the blend of old and new architecture, and enjoy the chance to pick blackberries along the wild riverbanks. A truly memorable adventure awaits!
Glide peacefully through Canterbury
Duration
60 minutes
About
As with all our trips we begin by taking you upriver through the Westgate Gardens with its impressive, church and towers and quite special collection of trees. For a little time you may feel you have left the city completely before we bring you back downstream through the site of the old tannery, Canterbury’s former major industry.
There are numerous sites of historical interest along the Stour in Canterbury, but in keeping with our local, somewhat rural aesthetic, much of the river bank is wild and untamed. We will show you the Greyfriars island, with its medieval priory, then we pass under the high street itself and emerge from an old Tudor tunnel in one of Canterbury’s most picturesque locations.
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Old and modern sit side by side with the clean lines of the Marlowe theatre give way to the jagged flint walls of the Blackfriars priory. Our turning point is at the site of the Abbots mill, where water still rushes over the old mill race.
On our return we take you past the ducking stool and the old weaver’s house. If you come at the right time of year we might pick a few blackberries too.
Please note
The minimum charge is 2 Adult fares.
Children under 5 years are carried free. Age 5yrs to 14yrs inclusive are charged the advertised child rate. Infants go free.
15yrs and over are charged the appropriate Adult rate.
Please contact us for group bookings of 15+ people and we can arrange a discount!
Adventure Tips
Book in Advance for Best Times
Westgate Punts limits trips to small groups; booking early ensures your preferred time and a private experience.
Bring a Light Jacket
Even on warm days, river breezes can be cool—dress in layers to stay comfortable during the hour-long punt.
Watch Your Step Boarding
Entering and exiting the punt requires steady footing on slippery riverbanks—take care to avoid slips.
Seasonal Fruit Picking
If visiting in late summer, keep an eye out for ripe blackberries along the river; a tasty, natural bonus to your trip.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans gliding on the river
- Kingfishers darting along the water edges
History
The punt route passes Greyfriars Island, home to a medieval priory, and runs by old industrial sites like the Abbots Mill, connecting visitors to Canterbury’s layered urban and rural story.
Conservation
Westgate Punts maintains low-impact trips to protect the Stour’s fragile riparian zones, encouraging visitors to respect wildlife and riverbank plants.
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Adventure Hotspots in Canterbury
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water-resistant Jacket
Protects against sudden spring showers and river mist.
spring specific
Sun Hat
Keeps you shaded during sunny summer trips along open river stretches.
summer specific
Sturdy Footwear
Ensures safe boarding and walking along potentially slippery banks.
Binoculars
Enhances spotting of wildlife and distant historical features.