May 30, 2025
UK Art

The pretty city dubbed ‘Paris of the UK’ – with a stunning cathedral, quaint shops and even many French patisseries


A British city has been described as the ‘Paris of the UK’ and could be the staycation hotspot of 2025. 

Home to cobbled streets, artisan shops and a historic cathedral, Canterbury is the UK’s very own City of Lights, according to some travellers. 

TikToker ‘siti_shoots’ posted a video of her visit to Canterbury, telling her followers: ‘If you want a Parisian vibe but don’t want to go abroad, you should go here.’ 

The TikToker shows off Canterbury’s pretty cobbled streets in her video and even visits a French bakery. 

So, what are Canterbury’s must-see attractions?

Canterbury Cathedral is the city’s best-rated attraction on Tripadvisor and was founded by St Augustine in 597 AD. 

The Cathedral’s incredible stained glass windows are a highlight while its crypt is home to a painted chapel that was hidden for centuries. 

And it might just give Notre Dame a run for its money. 

Home to cobbled streets, artisan shops and a historic cathedral, Canterbury is the UK's very own City of Lights

Home to cobbled streets, artisan shops and a historic cathedral, Canterbury is the UK’s very own City of Lights

Canterbury Cathedral is the city's best-rated attraction on Tripadvisor and was founded by St Augustine in 597 AD

Canterbury Cathedral is the city’s best-rated attraction on Tripadvisor and was founded by St Augustine in 597 AD

In a five star review on Google Reviews, a visitor wrote: ‘The Cathedral is just the beginning of this wonderful UNESCO heritage site. Take time to marvel at the stained glass windows on multiple levels. 

‘Do not miss the crypt, the Chapter House with its amazing ceiling, the exhibit in the water tower, the peaceful herb garden and cloister. These are all beautiful and there are peaceful places to marvel, meditate and/or pray.’

Located in the heart of Canterbury’s historic district, The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is the city’s best-rated art gallery. 

Housed in a Grade II listed building, the gallery has stained glass windows and a collection of 16th century Dutch oil paintings. 

If it’s a sunny day, tourists can head for a walk in Canterbury’s Westgate Gardens and visit its Physic Garden or watch the River Stour pass by. 

And when it comes to Parisian-style food, there’s one French bakery that tourists won’t want to miss. 

Cafe St Pierre serves French pastries, baguettes and can be easily spotted by the French flag hanging outside its door. 

A visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: ‘Everything tastes exquisite and the service is always good. Everything about Café St Pierre is authentically French.’ 

Located in the heart of Canterbury's historic district, The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is the city's best-rated art gallery

Located in the heart of Canterbury’s historic district, The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is the city’s best-rated art gallery

The Cathedral's incredible stained glass windows are a highlight while its crypt is home to a painted chapel that was hidden for centuries

The Cathedral’s incredible stained glass windows are a highlight while its crypt is home to a painted chapel that was hidden for centuries

And another visitor said: ‘If you ever find yourself wandering the charming streets of Canterbury with a craving for a genuine French experience, Cafe St. Pierre is an absolute must-visit. 

‘This delightful little cafe embodies a distinctly French atmosphere, transporting patrons straight to the heart of Paris with its cozy and inviting ambiance.’

Looking to escape the UK instead? The cheapest destination for a weekend break has pints for just £1.75. 

Research from Skyscanner has revealed that Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is the ideal weekend destination for tourists on a budget. 





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