Top Things To Do In Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint (Canterbury) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint

1. 1. Historical Tower Tour

   Step back in time with the Historical Tower Tour at the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint. As the largest surviving medieval gateway in England, the Westgate Towers offer a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. Visitors will be guided through ancient chambers, spiral staircases, and prison cells where they'll learn about the tower's role in the defense of the city, its use as a jail, and the stories of the people who passed through its gates. The tour culminates with a visit to the battlements, providing a stunning panoramic view of the historic city of Canterbury, the cathedral, and surrounding countryside.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: £8.00 per adult

2. 2. Viewpoint Experience

   Discover breathtaking views of Canterbury from the Westgate Towers Viewpoint. Visitors can climb up to the museum's terrace to enjoy an unparalleled 360-degree perspective of the medieval city and its environs. This self-guided activity is perfect for photographers and those looking to take a moment to appreciate the beauty of Kent's landscape from a historic vantage point. Interpretative panels provide insight into the landmarks in view, enriching the experience and connecting you with the city's past and present.

   Duration: 30 minutes · Price: £4.50 per adult

3. 3. Medieval Crime and Punishment Tour

   The Medieval Crime and Punishment Tour at Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint is an immersive experience that takes you deep into the history of English law and its repercussions. This educational tour highlights the brutal methods of justice in medieval times. Guests will be able to see and learn about historical punishment devices and hear tales of those who found themselves on the wrong side of the law. Along the way, you'll delve into stories of infamous criminals and the tower's previous function as a city jail, all while appreciating the vivid historical atmosphere of this unique location.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: £10.00 per adult

4. 4. Westgate Gardens Picnic

   Combine culture with relaxation by enjoying a Westgate Gardens Picnic. Just adjacent to the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, the beautiful Westgate Gardens offer the perfect setting for a leisurely picnic. Pick up a pre-arranged picnic basket from the museum, filled with local delicacies, and set out to find your ideal spot within the carefully maintained garden that stretches along the River Stour. This activity is a great way to unwind after exploring the museum and towers, allowing for a serene break in one of Canterbury’s most picturesque areas.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: £15.00 per basket

5. 5. Interactive Exhibition

   The Interactive Exhibition at Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint offers an engaging way to learn about the rich history of Canterbury's iconic Westgate Towers. Suitable for both adults and children, the exhibition features hands-on displays, multimedia presentations, and interactive elements that make history come alive. Discover the story of the towers through games, touchscreen activities, and audio-visual elements that offer insights into life during different periods of the tower's existence. From its construction to its role in the city's defense, the exhibition is educational and entertaining.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: £6.00 per adult

6. 6. Nighttime Ghost Tour

   Join the spine-tingling Nighttime Ghost Tour at Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint and delve into the darker side of Canterbury's history. This exclusive after-hours tour is not for the faint of heart. As twilight falls, explore the shadowed hallways and chambers of the ancient towers while your guide recounts chilling tales of ghosts and apparitions that have been sighted within these historic walls. Learn about the city's haunted past, unexplained occurrences, and why Westgate Towers is considered one of Canterbury's most haunted locations.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: £12.00 per adult

7. 7. Family Adventure Quest

   The Family Adventure Quest at Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint is a perfect activity for families looking to combine education with fun. Embark on a scavenger hunt that takes you through the museum and up into the towers as you solve riddles, find hidden symbols, and complete challenges. The activity is designed to help families engage with the history and architecture in an entertaining way, ensuring that kids and adults alike will enjoy discovering the secrets of Canterbury's most famous medieval landmark. Each completed quest comes with a small prize to commemorate your adventure.

   Duration: 1-1.5 hours · Price: £7.50 per child, accompanying adults free

8. 8. Architectural Sketching Session

   Enjoy a peaceful Architectural Sketching Session at Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, where you can capture the essence of this historic structure with pencil and paper. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, this activity provides a unique opportunity to engage with the building's stunning medieval architecture. With its impressive battlements, stone walls, and age-worn details, the towers offer endless inspiration. Visitors are welcome to bring their own sketching materials or purchase a set at the museum to create their own artistic memento of the visit.

   Duration: Self-paced · Price: Free with entry; materials cost extra

9. 9. Local History Talks

   Indulge your curiosity about Canterbury's past with Local History Talks at Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint. These talks are hosted by knowledgeable speakers who specialize in various aspects of local history, from the medieval period to the present day. The sessions cover topics like the architecture of the towers, the role of Canterbury in English history, and the lives of prominent figures associated with the city. Engaging and informative, the talks provide deeper context for your visit to the towers and give you a broader understanding of Kent's heritage.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: £5.00 per adult

10. 10. Guided City Walls Walk

    Take part in a Guided City Walls Walk, starting from the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint. This guided walk includes a tour around the remaining sections of Canterbury's ancient city walls, dating back to Roman times. A guide will enlighten you about the significance of these fortifications to the city's history, their role in battles, and how they've shaped the development of Canterbury. You’ll get a unique perspective on the city's past and its architectural evolution, finishing back at the museum where you can further explore the exhibits at your leisure.

    Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: £9.00 per adult