St Augustine’s Abbey: A Guide to Canterbury’s Ancient Monastery

Attractions

9 Sept

Just a short walk from Canterbury Cathedral, the ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey are a fascinating reminder of England’s early Christian heritage. Founded in 597 AD by St Augustine, the abbey was one of the most important monasteries in medieval England and, together with Canterbury Cathedral and St Martin’s Church, forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, visitors can explore its atmospheric ruins, learn about its role in English Christianity, and enjoy its tranquil grounds.

The History of St Augustine’s Abbey

Foundation: St Augustine, sent by Pope Gregory the Great, established the abbey in 597 AD as part of his mission to convert the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity. It became the burial place of early Archbishops of Canterbury.
Growth: Over the centuries, the abbey expanded into a grand monastic complex with churches, chapels, and cloisters, rivaling some of Europe’s greatest religious houses.
Dissolution: Like many monasteries, the abbey was dissolved under Henry VIII in the 16th century. Much of it fell into ruin, but significant remains still stand today.
UNESCO Site: Along with Canterbury Cathedral and St Martin’s Church, it was designated a World Heritage Site in 1988.

What to See at St Augustine’s Abbey

Ruins of the Monastery: Explore the remains of the church, cloisters, and domestic buildings.
Exhibition Centre: Displays bring the abbey’s history to life, with models, artefacts, and interactive exhibits.
Burial Site of Early Archbishops: Discover the final resting place of Augustine and his successors.
Peaceful Grounds: Enjoy the quiet gardens and lawns, with views towards Canterbury Cathedral.

St Augustine’s Abbey Opening Times

Summer (April – October): 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Winter (November – March): 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Closed: 24–26 December and 1 January

Opening hours may vary; check the English Heritage website before visiting.

Tickets and Admission

St Augustine’s Abbey is managed by English Heritage.

Members: Free entry
Non-members: Tickets available online or at the gate (family tickets also available)
Guided tours and audio guides may be available depending on the season.

Practical Information

Location: Longport, Canterbury, Kent CT1 1PF
Parking: Limited on-site parking; additional car parks nearby in Canterbury city centre
Accessibility: Some uneven ground due to ruins, but pathways provide access to key areas
Facilities: Visitor centre, shop, toilets

Why Visit St Augustine’s Abbey?

For anyone exploring Canterbury, a visit to St Augustine’s Abbey is essential to understand the city’s role in shaping Christianity in England. Its atmospheric ruins, peaceful gardens, and historical significance make it a perfect complement to a trip to Canterbury Cathedral.