What’s on locally over the Winter Break?

View of Canterbury City skyline.

Information on what you can do in Canterbury and the surrounding areas for those staying nearby

If you’re staying local to Kent or remaining on campus over the holiday, there is plenty happening that you can get involved with. We’ve sifted through the what’s-on-websites and picked some of our favourite events, experiences and workshops. 

Canterbury Christmas Markets | Whitefriars Canterbury | 12th November– 24th December 

In the heart of Canterbury City Centre the Christmas market has a lot to offer! There is a large range of market stalls selling a variety of products from cheese to calendars. Showstopping live music will be playing throughout the rest of December, so have a look on the Canterbury Christmas Market website to see what’s on!   

Marlowe Theatre – Jack and the Beanstalk | 20th December 2021 – 9th January 2022 

The annual tradition of the Marlowe Theatre Pantomime is back for another year and promises not to disappoint! Following the traditional tale of Jack and the Beanstalk watch the heroes save the town from the wrath of the giant with help, as always, from the brilliant Pantomime Dame!  

Find out more about What’s on at the Marlowe Theatre  

Canterbury Cathedral Carol Service | 24th December 2021, 3pm   

Canterbury Cathedral is at the heart of the historic culture of the city. Join them for their traditional Christmas Eve carol service on the 24th December. 

Find out more about what’s on at Canterbury Cathedral

Of Home and Hope Exhibition | The Beaney, Canterbury | 11th December 2021 – 23rd January 2022 

Discover the power of art on health and wellbeing with this new touring exhibition from Southbank Centre, showcasing art created by those at risk from social isolation and digital exclusion during the pandemic. 

Find out more about what’s on at The Beaney, Canterbury

Walking Trails in Canterbury  

Kent is home to some beautiful rivers, countryside and coast, all of which contribute to the beauty and tranquillity of these walking trails!  

We’ve included links to some of our favourite local walking trails below:  

The Great Stour Way 

The George and Dragon Stour Valley walk 

The Chartham Trail 

Blean Woods Green Trail 

You can also visit the Christmas On Campus pages for more information about what’s on at the Canterbury campus over the holiday and information on accessing services on campus.  

If you ever need any advice or support when living on or off-campus at University, the College and Community Life Team is here to support you. We can provide advice and support for households and individuals, to help you have the best University experience you can. Having a tough time over the holidays? If you need urgent support, take a look at the Emergency Support page for out of hours contacts available by phone, text and online throughout vacation.

Written by Josh Turner, College and Community Life staff member, 20.12.21

Check out further articles on College Life, Community Life and Support and Wellbeing.