Punting Canterbury’s Old City with Westgate Punts
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no strenuous effort required as punting is guided.
Overview
Glide through Canterbury’s historic heart on a 60-minute punt with Westgate Punts. Navigate Tudor tunnels and wild riverbanks, all while soaking up centuries of architecture and river life.
Old City and Nature Reserve • 1 Hour • 4 to 6 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, creating unforgettable memories.
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 small groups
Trips accommodate 4-6 people with a minimum two adult fare charge; reserve early to secure your spot.
Timing your trip
Late spring and summer afternoons offer the best lighting and opportunities for blackberry picking along the banks.
Arrive on foot or by bus
Westgate Gardens is centrally located and accessible via public transport; parking near the city center can be limited.
Weather precautions
Though trips run rain or shine, heavy wind or downpours can cause cancellations—come prepared with rain gear.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans gliding near the riverbanks
- Kingfishers darting along the Stour’s edge
History
Canterbury’s river has been central to local industry since medieval times, including the now-defunct tannery and the historic Abbots Mill, still powered by water flows.
Conservation
Westgate Punts promotes low-impact river travel to protect the Stour’s delicate ecosystems and supports local efforts to maintain water quality and native habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Canterbury
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Weather-appropriate layers
Layered clothing helps you stay comfortable regardless of river conditions.
Waterproof jacket
Protects you during unexpected rain or cooler breezes on the water.
spring|fall|winter specific
Sun hat and sunscreen
Necessary for shielding from sun exposure during warmer months.
summer specific
Camera or smartphone
Captures the unique views of Tudor tunnels and historic cityscapes along the river.