Latest news with #CanterburyCathedral
The Sun
27-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Fury as Britain's oldest cathedral to turn iconic landmark into an AIRBNB with locals slamming ‘outrageous' plans
PLANS to turn the entrance to Britain's oldest cathedral into an Airbnb have been branded as "outrageous". The entrance gateway to Canterbury Cathedral, one of the most photographed Christian landmarks of the country, could be converted into accommodation. 3 3 Christ Church Gate, which serves as the main entrance to the cathedral, was built in 1520. What the plans for the Airbnb involve Church authorities have proposed to transform its historic tower into an Airbnb, as an apartment with one bedroom, an open-plan kitchen and living room. Other features in the plans include a biofuel fire, breakfast bar, and two toilets. A Canterbury Cathedral spokesperson said: 'The best long-term way to care for our historic buildings, and ensure that they are maintained for future generations, is for them to be used and loved by residents and visitors. 'The rooms in the Gate remain unrefurbished and, in their current condition, are of limited use. 'As we consider how these rooms could be used, the Cathedral is working closely with historic building specialists, conservation architects and planners to bring them into use. 'This will help us continue our centuries-old practice of hospitality and welcome as we seek to serve the wider community, both here in Canterbury, and across the world. We are looking to share more information as plans unfold.' Purcell Architects is the company set to be involved in the transformation of the Cathedral, and submitted documents to the council. They said: 'It is clear from the layout and fixtures, including the large fireplaces and windows originally with shutters, that they were designed for domestic use." Move branded 'outrageous' This, however, has sparked controversy among the local community and Christians and seen as "the continued commercialisation of the Church". Chair of the Canterbury Society, Hilary Brian, said it was an "outrageous" idea and told KentOnline: 'The gate is such an important piece of Canterbury's history, and it should be preserved. 'It seems such a shame to see one of the city's biggest landmarks disregarded in this way.' Historic UK city undergoing huge multi-million revamp Dr Gavin Ashenden, who was the former chaplain to late Queen Elizabeth II, and has since converted to Catholicism, thinks the conversion plans come at no surprise. He pointed out: 'As The Church of have to go to ever increasing links to raise money. Ashenden was also a choral scholar at King's Canterbury, and added: 'To give credit where it is due, at least turning this famous cathedral gateway into an Airbnb doesn't involve the degree of blasphemy and irresponsibility that some of the other money making ventures like turning the cathedral into a nightclub involved. "Perhaps local residents should be grateful. "It's just Airbnb rather than a casino.' Other church transformations It is not the first time an historic cathedral has been "commercialised". In 2019, Southwark Cathedral had its nave used as a catwalk and to sell clothes by fashion designer Julien MacDonald. It was subsequently accused of promoting the "antithesis of the Christian Gospel". Norwich Cathedral was also criticised for "treating God like a tourist attraction" when it installed a 55-ft helter skelter in its nave. Airbnb and Canterbury Council have been contacted for comment.
Telegraph
26-06-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
Fury at plans to turn Canterbury Cathedral entrance into Airbnb
Canterbury Cathedral's historic entrance could be transformed into an Airbnb-style holiday let, prompting criticism of the 'Church's continued commercialisation'. Christ Church Gate, built in the early 16th century, serves as the main entrance to Canterbury Cathedral and is one of the most photographed Christian landmarks in the country. However, church authorities have proposed to convert the historic tower into 'unrivalled' Airbnb-style accommodation featuring a one-bedroom apartment featuring an open-plan kitchen and living room, a biofuel fire, a breakfast bar and two lavatories. The Dean and Chapter of Canterbury described the accommodation, which would replace office space on the first and second floors, as 'high quality' and said that it would provide a long-term use for the building. However, the plans to transform the Grade-I-listed gate, which is the main entrance to the cathedral and believed to have been built between 1504 and 1521, have divided Christians as well as members of the local community. Dr Gavin Ashenden, former chaplain to the late Queen Elizabeth II, who has since converted to Catholicism, described this as the 'continued commercialisation' of the Church. Dr Ashenden, who was a choral scholar at King's Canterbury, said: 'As The Church of England continues its meltdown, it's no surprise that they have to go to ever increasing links to raise money. 'To give credit where it is due, at least turning this famous cathedral gateway into an Airbnb doesn't involve the degree of blasphemy and irresponsibility that some of the other money making ventures like turning the cathedral into a nightclub involved. Perhaps local residents should be grateful. It's just Airbnb rather than a casino.' Hilary Brian, chair of the Canterbury Society, branded the idea 'outrageous' and urged Cathedral authorities to change their minds. 'The gate is such an important piece of Canterbury's history, and it should be preserved,' she told Kent Online. 'It seems such a shame to see one of the city's biggest landmarks disregarded in this way.' 'Centuries-old practice of hospitality' A Canterbury Cathedral spokesperson said: 'The best long-term way to care for our historic buildings, and ensure that they are maintained for future generations, is for them to be used and loved by residents and visitors. 'The rooms in the Gate remain unrefurbished and, in their current condition, are of limited use. 'As we consider how these rooms could be used, the Cathedral is working closely with historic building specialists, conservation architects and planners to bring them into use. 'This will help us continue our centuries-old practice of hospitality and welcome as we seek to serve the wider community, both here in Canterbury, and across the world. We are looking to share more information as plans unfold.' Purcell Architects, the company which would transform the historic building, said in documents submitted to the council: 'It is clear from the layout and fixtures, including the large fireplaces and windows originally with shutters, that they were designed for domestic use.' This is not the first time that cathedrals have been accused of becoming increasingly secularised and commercialised. In 2019 Southwark Cathedral was accused of promoting the ' antithesis of the Christian gospel ' by allowing its nave to be used as a catwalk to sell clothes by fashion designer, Julien MacDonald. Norwich Cathedral also faced criticism for 'treating God like a tourist attraction' after it installed a 55-ft helter skelter in its nave.
Tatler Asia
10-06-2025
- Tatler Asia
Set sail: scenic boat rides around the world for your travel bucket list
Giethoorn (Overijssel Province, Netherlands) Above Giethoorn is straight out of a fairytale. (Photo: Amir Deljouyi / Unsplash) Nicknamed the 'Venice of the North' and often described as a fairytale village, Giethoorn has no roads—only a network of canals that residents and visitors navigate by electric 'whisper boats' and traditional wooden punts. But that's only half of Giethoorn's charm. The other half lies in its storybook cottages with thatched roofs, gardens bursting with flowers in the springtime, quaint arched wooden bridges and the occasional duck paddling gently on the canal. Don't miss: Shy escapes: 9 quiet destinations for introverts who love to travel Wuzhen (Zhejiang Province, China) Above Take a romantic evening boat ride in Wuzhen. (Photo: kuaileqie RE / Unsplash) Wuzhen is one of China's most meticulously preserved and lovingly restored water towns. Characterised by cobblestone alleys, arched stone bridges and Ming- and Qing-era architecture, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past. It's recommended to stay at least one night and go on a boat ride in the evening, when the wooden houses and still canals glow under the warm flicker of lanterns, transforming this picturesque town into a dreamy, mirror-like waterscape. Venice Canals Historic District (Los Angeles, California, USA) Above A picturesque pocket of serenity in Los Angeles (Photo: Leo_Visions / Unsplash) Inspired by Venice, Italy, Los Angeles's Venice Canals Historic District was conceived by developer Abbot Kinney in 1905. Today, after restoration efforts in the 1990s, only six of the original canals remain. Located a stone's throw from the Venice Beach Boardwalk, the canals offer a tranquil alternative. Glide past private docks, charming homes, arched pedestrian bridges and lush gardens in a kayak or rented gondola, and discover a surprisingly serene and picturesque corner of Los Angeles. The Great Stour (Canterbury, England) Above Punt through medieval Canterbury (Photo: Jolly Ittoop Athungal / Pexels) Just an hour outside London lies the idyllic city of Canterbury. Immerse yourself in a bit of history when you take a traditional punt along the Great Stour as it winds through the heart of this medieval city. Enjoy the scenery as you glide under centuries-old bridges and past rustic timber-framed homes, historic stone walls and charming English gardens. Don't forget to watch for glimpses of historic landmarks, including Canterbury Cathedral's spires rising in the distance. Amsterdam Canal Rings (Netherlands) Above This list wouldn't be complete without the Amsterdam Canal Rings. (Photo: Gabriel Guita/Pexels) A Unesco World Heritage Site and a defining feature of the city's historic core, Amsterdam's iconic 17th-century canal rings—Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht—offer tourists an opportunity to take in postcard-perfect views of gabled townhouses, arched stone bridges and colourful houseboats while cruising down its waterways. In the evening, the bridges are lit up, illuminating the canal and giving it an enchanting, cinematic glow. Maasin River (Siargao, Philippines) Above Take tropical boat ride in Siargao. (Photo: Eibner Saliba / Unsplash) If you're looking for a more tropical vibe, take a boat ride down the Maasin River in Siargao. Flanked by coconut palms and dense mangroves on both sides, you'll be gliding along emerald waters through a lush landscape that will take you to a secret lagoon. Feel free to take a quick dip in its refreshing waters before heading back up the river. Maasin is a quieter alternative to Siargao's surfing scene and perfectly captures the island's relaxed spirit and natural allure. Colmar (Alsace, France) Above France's 'Little Venice' (Photo: Evans Joel/Pexels) Located in France's Alsace region, just a couple of hours from Paris by train, is Colmar. Rumoured to be the inspiration for the French village in Studio Ghibli's Howl's Moving Castle , this hidden gem is another fairytale destination. Head over to the 'La Petite Venise' or 'Little Venice' district and take a scenic boat ride down the Lauch River, where you'll be greeted by storybook views of colourful half-timbered houses decked with pretty flower boxes, arched stone bridges and cobblestone streets.
Daily Mail
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
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. 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.' 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.
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Yahoo
The Kent city named best place to live less than an hour from London
As the days get longer, you might be looking at taking more weekend breaks. London has great public transport links to practically anywhere in the UK, making destination options endless. But if you would prefer a quick journey to your getaway, then you are in luck. The historical city of Canterbury is less than an hour from central London and offers a wealth of activities to enjoy over a long weekend. Plus, it was previously named the best place to live in Kent by the popular website Muddy Stilettos. A train journey to Canterbury takes just over 50 minutes from St Pancras, or for a slightly cheaper but slower option, you can catch a train from Victoria Station that takes an hour and a half. Canterbury is well known for its deep historical roots, with medieval and Roman connections that still exist today. With Roman walls surrounding the city centre and the Westgate towers welcoming you on arrival, you see the city's rich history from the moment you arrive. Canterbury Cathedral is the region's most iconic landmark, with its grand style, being the oldest Christian structure in England and also being part of the World Heritage Site. Along with the city's history, there is also a great shopping scene, from the Fenwick department store to a large Primark and endless amounts of independent and quirky shops. Recommended Reading 5 of the best places for a weekend getaway from London Visit the village of Chilham for the perfect weekend getaway The beautiful Kent village less than an hour from London for a weekend trip And you won't go hungry, with plenty of choices for food, whether a quick meal from City Fish Bar or a bottomless brunch from The Drapers Arms. Away from the busy shopping scene, you can enjoy more calm activities like taking a walk through Dane John Garden or along the river at the Westgate Gardens. Plus, you can even take a boat ride on the River Stour with a number of companies offering a tour, including Westgate Punts, Canterbury Punting Company and Canterbury Historic River Tours.
