Hampton by Hilton Canterbury stands on St Margarets Street in the heart of the old city, which puts it among the most convenient modern hotels for a visit. It has 129 rooms, a restaurant and a bar, a gym that is open around the clock, and a free breakfast buffet that is included in the rate, a combination that appeals to couples, families and business travellers alike. The style is contemporary and practical rather than historic, which is a pleasant contrast to the medieval streets outside. The walking times are the real draw. Canterbury Cathedral is about four minutes away on foot, and the Marlowe Theatre is about five. The pedestrianised High Street, the river and the Westgate Gardens are all close, so you can spend the whole day on foot and return for a rest between visits. For families, the hotel offers free cribs and infant beds, and for those arriving by bike there is bicycle parking, so it works for a wide range of trips.
Location and getting around
The hotel is inside the city walls area, and almost every major sight is a short walk. Canterbury East and Canterbury West stations are both within reasonable walking distance or a short taxi ride, and the Park and Ride and local buses are useful if you arrive by car. The High Street and the Buttermarket are minutes away, and the quiet lanes beyond the Cathedral are ideal for an evening stroll.
Rooms and what to ask for
Rooms are modern with wardrobes, hair dryers, coffee and tea makers and hypo-allergenic bedding. The air conditioning is welcome in summer. Ask for a higher floor for less street noise, and check when you book whether the breakfast buffet is included in your rate. Families should request adjoining or larger rooms early, as the most popular types sell out first in school holidays and at weekends.
Who it suits and what to know: it is an excellent choice for visitors who value location, a hot breakfast and reliable standards over historic character. It is less atmospheric than the timber-framed inns of the old town, but the price is often lower than for hotels with a similar position. Parking in the centre is limited and may be charged, so check arrangements when you book, and note that check-in usually starts in the afternoon. A midweek stay is often cheaper than a weekend.
Booking tips
Canterbury is busy during the summer, at Christmas market time and around graduation weeks at the local universities, so book early for those dates. Compare the flexible rate with the cheaper non-refundable one if your plans might change, and check when you book what the cancellation terms are. If you want a longer visit, combine a night here with day trips to Whitstable, Dover or Broadstairs, all of which are easy by train from Canterbury.
Why stay here
- ✓Free breakfast buffet
- ✓Restaurant
- ✓Bar
- ✓24-hour gym
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Bicycle parking
- ✓Free cribs and infant beds
Good questions
Where is Hampton by Hilton Canterbury?+
It is on St Margarets Street in the city centre. The Cathedral is about four minutes on foot and the Marlowe Theatre about five.
Is breakfast included?+
A free breakfast buffet is part of the hotel offer. Check the rate you book to confirm what is included.
Is there a gym?+
Yes, there is a 24-hour gym, along with a restaurant and a bar.
