The city has been hailed as the “most picturesque” in the country thanks to its quaint village vibe, stunning architecture, and charming setting – and it’s just an hour away from London

Canterbury, a city in England, has been hailed as the “most picturesque” in the UK, thanks to its charming village-like atmosphere and stunning architecture. The UK is home to a plethora of beautiful towns and cities, each boasting rich histories, vibrant cultural scenes, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re after a buzzing music scene, tranquil woodlands and lakes, or the hustle and bustle of iconic destinations like London, Edinburgh, or Liverpool, there’s something for everyone. There are countless breathtaking locations across the UK, renowned not only for their attractions but also for their aesthetic appeal.

One city, however, stands out as the “most picturesque” due to its vintage charm that is quintessentially English. That city is Canterbury, a cathedral city famous since the Middle Ages as a pilgrimage destination.

It features ancient walls originally built by the Romans, quaint cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and an awe-inspiring cathedral. Established in 587 AD, Canterbury Cathedral showcases elements of Gothic and Roman architecture, including vast stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings.

It serves as the headquarters of the Church of England and the Anglican Communion. Visit Canterbury UK, the city’s tourism site, describes the city as a perfect destination for all types of visitors.

The site states: “Whether you are on the search for a city break, a wine tour, fresh sea air or walking through ancient woodland, we have you covered. At the heart of this area is the medieval walled city of Canterbury which has been hosting visitors for more than 1,000 years, so a warm welcome for any ‘pilgrim’ is guaranteed.

“The city is surrounded by ancient woodland and luscious countryside that is now home [to] six vineyards. In just 15 minutes, you can find yourself enjoying oysters and dipping your toes in the water of our stunning coastal towns of Whitstable and Herne Bay.”

Canterbury, a UNESCO World Heritage Site tucked away in Kent, is a treasure trove of delights with its blend of high street favourites and unique independent shops. Not to mention, it’s peppered with a plethora of award-winning eateries, cosy cafes, and local breweries.

This vibrant city keeps chins wagging and feet tapping all year round with its bustling events calendar, brimming with festivals and gatherings. If you fancy a jaunt from London, Canterbury is a mere train ride away – under an hour – and promises a “perfect” getaway in a “historic, picturesque location”.

Social media’s love affair with hidden UK spots brought Canterbury into the limelight when it was featured by the well-followed account UK Hidden Gems on TikTok. Content created by @gunjansoodofficial highlighted the enchanting Westgate Grove, flowering beautifully along the river and flanked with stunning timber-framed buildings.

Echoing the creator’s own words, the post painted Westgate Grove as “a riverside landscape rich in wildlife and history” while UK Hidden Gems posed the question to their swathes of followers: “Is this the UK’s most picturesque town?”