Cambridge and Oxford have their punts, but Canterbury has its own version, and it is one of the best ways to see the city from a different angle. Boats leave from a jetty on the River Stour in the centre of town, and a guide punts you while telling stories of the old city. You glide past the backs of timber-framed houses, beneath low bridges and along the riverbank gardens, passing places that most walkers never see, from old weavers' houses to the ducking stool. The trip takes about 45 minutes, and each punt takes no more than twelve people, so it feels personal rather than like a bus tour. It is a relaxed, low-effort activity that suits all ages, and it gives you a rest between the cathedral and the shops.
The meeting point is on the Stour in the middle of Canterbury, reached from Stour Street by way of Water Lane, so it is an easy walk from the cathedral and the High Street. Tours run in the daytime, with sailings across the day, and the page notes that they operate in all weather conditions.
Queues can form at busy times, so allow a little slack, and wear warm clothes in cold months, because the river is cooler than the street. The guide does the punting, so there is nothing to learn and no strenuous activity.
Expect a mix of history and gossip. Commentary covers the weavers who settled by the river, the old buildings along the bank and the story of the ducking stool, with glimpses of the cathedral from the water. The experience is shared with other guests on the punt, which keeps the price low, and the maximum group size of twelve means everyone can hear and see. It is suitable for older children, and the guide is happy to answer questions.
A few sensible tips make the trip better. Book a daytime slot you can keep flexible, since sailing depends on water levels and weather. In winter, check carefully that tours are running on your day, and bring gloves. The punt is best taken in the middle of a Canterbury day, as a gentle break between the cathedral and a pub lunch or the Canterbury Tales. For a first-time visit with a family, it is one of the most reliable crowd-pleasers in the city.
What to expect
The experience
A 45 minute guided punt on the River Stour from a central jetty, with commentary from the punter and a maximum of twelve guests per boat.
Best time
A dry, bright part of the day, mid-morning or early afternoon, when the light reaches the water.
How long
About 45 minutes plus a few minutes to board.
Tips
Dress warmly, arrive ten minutes early, allow for queues at busy times and check the weather on the day.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors and families who want a relaxed way to see the city.
- Families
- A good fit for older children, with a guide who talks and a short ride that rarely tires them.
- Couples
- Pair it with lunch by the river for an easy romantic outing.
- Pair with
- Canterbury Cathedral or the Canterbury Tales Experience, both a short walk away.
- Time needed
- Allow an hour including boarding.
Good questions
Where does the Canterbury punting tour start?+
Boats leave from a jetty on the River Stour in the centre of the city, reached from Stour Street by way of Water Lane. It is a short walk from the cathedral.
How long is the punting tour?+
The tour lasts about 45 minutes. Allow a little extra for boarding and the occasional queue.
How many people share a punt?+
Each punt carries a maximum of twelve guests, which keeps the tour intimate. A guide does all the punting.
Does the punting tour run in bad weather?+
The tour is described as running in all weather conditions, but heavy rain or high water can change sailings. Dress for the weather and check on the day.
Is the punting tour suitable for children?+
Yes, older children usually enjoy it, and the guide tells stories as you go. Use a coat and hold small children close, as with any boat.
