Cathedral Gate Hotel

Business Details

Your Historic Stay in Canterbury at Cathedral Gate Hotel

Established in 1438, Cathedral Gate Hotel combines centuries of history with modern comforts in the heart of Canterbury. Our property retains original features such as beamed ceilings and crooked doors while offering contemporary amenities for discerning travelers. Guests enjoy panoramic views of Canterbury Cathedral from select rooms, a curated library, and a bar serving complimentary tea and coffee throughout the day. We prioritize guest satisfaction through personalized service, including tailored room preferences and local recommendations from our knowledgeable team.

With a prime location adjacent to Burgate and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, we provide unparalleled access to Canterbury's cultural and historical landmarks. Our commitment to quality is reflected in spotless accommodations, award-winning breakfasts, and adherence to strict hygiene protocols. As custodians of this historic site for over a millennium, we blend tradition with innovation to create memorable stays for modern visitors.

Services

Double En-suite Twin En-suite Double Room with Shared Bathroom Single Room with Shared Bathroom Continental Breakfast Free Late Check-out Secure Online Payment Best Price Guarantee Historic Atmosphere Central Location

Highlights and features

Free cancellation up to two days before arrival
Secure online payment facilities
Complimentary continental breakfast included
Prime location beside Canterbury Cathedral
24/7 online booking system available

What people say

Spotless rooms Best continental breakfast Friendly staff Fantastic location Helpful recommendations

Website

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Services

Double En-suite Rooms

Our double en-suite rooms combine historic charm with modern comforts. Each uniquely decorated room features either four-poster, sleigh, or contemporary beds with ensuite bathrooms containing baths, showers, or both. Guests enjoy views of Canterbury Cathedral, Burgate, or the hotel's rooftop terrace. All rooms include premium toiletries, tea/coffee making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Twin En-suite Rooms

Twin en-suite rooms offer flexible sleeping arrangements with two single beds convertible to super king sizes. Located at the hotel's rear for quiet stays, these rooms feature modern walk-in showers and contemporary furnishings. Ideal for friends or colleagues visiting Canterbury, they provide all essential amenities including 24-hour hot water and complimentary breakfast.

Shared Bathroom Rooms

Economical room options with shared bathroom facilities cater to solo travelers and budget-conscious guests. Rooms feature queen or single beds with hand basins, offering cathedral or city views. Located in historic sections of the building, these rooms maintain character with sloping ceilings while providing modern comforts like hairdryers and Wi-Fi.

Continental Breakfast

Daily complimentary breakfast includes fresh fruit salad, yoghurt, cereal, porridge, croissants, and toast. Available in dining areas or room service, our breakfasts feature locally sourced ingredients. Guests particularly praise the quality of fresh fruits and warm croissants, with full English breakfasts available as an optional upgrade.

Historic Building Tours

Guided tours explore the hotel's 1438 origins as Sonne hospice and its connection to Canterbury Cathedral. Learn about architectural features like beamed ceilings and medieval buttressing incorporated into Christchurch Gate. The tours highlight 600 years of hospitality tradition while explaining modern renovations preserving historic integrity.

Questions

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is available from 3:00 PM, with check-out required by 11:00 AM. Luggage storage is provided before check-in and after check-out.

Does the hotel offer cancellation flexibility?

Free cancellation is available up to two clear days before arrival. Amendments within this period require availability confirmation and may affect pricing.

Are parking facilities available?

Discounted parking vouchers for local ANPR car parks cost £10 (rising to £12 from April 2022). The nearest car park is a three-minute walk from the hotel.

What breakfast options are included?

A complimentary continental breakfast with fresh fruit, yoghurt, cereal, porridge, croissants, and toast is included. Full English breakfasts are available for £9.50.

How accessible is the hotel from transport hubs?

Canterbury West and East train stations are 10 minutes' walk away. National Express coaches stop at Canterbury bus station. Gatwick/Heathrow airports connect via taxis or public transport.

Can room preferences be requested?

Guests may specify room preferences during booking, including bed types, views, and bathroom configurations. While not guaranteed, we make every effort to accommodate requests.

Reviews (6)

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Beach Lovin Family

Apr 03, 2022 Report

Perfect location to visit Canterbury. Building is from 1400s, but our room appears to be recently updated. Great hot breakfast and staff. No air-conditioning though which is typical for UK.

Patrick Griffin

Feb 18, 2022 Report

Very old (1438) hotel with lots of charm. Obviously no lifts and the floors are uneven for those less stable on their feet. However, you are in the centre of Canterbury with the cathedral visitor's office right next door. Our room "Barn" was at the top of the hotel and was spacious with a decent bathroom. You fill up the hotel's water bottles for drinking (still or sparkling) water and even the plastic glasses are compostable!

The staff were all friendly and helpful. There is no parking at the hotel but there is a car park (Queningate) a five minute walk down Burgate. The deal with the hotel means you pay ten pounds per night. There are tea and coffee making facilities in the room. The "continental" breakfast was excellent including yoghurt, fresh fruit, cereals, croissants, bacon baguette, tea, coffee and juice. Plenty of restaurants and bars within a short walk of this attractive corner of Canterbury. Highly recommended.

John Selin

Feb 16, 2022 Report

"Quaint" would describe this hotel, but that is all. The floors are all uneven in every direction. Our room, the barn, was small with no desk and minimal facilities in the bathroom. There are stairs everywhere, including getting to the reception area. The staff are very friendly and the owners work hard to please. The location is great, but Canterbury is a small city, so any hotel near the city center would be close enough to everything in town. I can't imagine how people gave this hotel such high ratings.

Delores James

Jan 11, 2022 Report

Lovely staff, quaint and pretty rooms. Would advise bringing an extra blanket as it's a bit cold! Totally accommodating to all dietary requirements

Alan Sharman

Nov 07, 2021 Report

Definitely different from a chain hotel, with so much character from the uneven floors and ceilings! This hotel appeals if you like that, and if you can manage going up and down the stairs because there is no lift (elevator). No parking either, though the hotel issues a permit allowing 24 hours in several public car parks. Once you've accepted that, the room is small but clean, the staff are helpful and friendly, breakfast is plentiful, the location is perfect, and for me the price represents great value.

Jim Gordon

Oct 21, 2021 Report

It was really great to return to the Cathedral Gate, post lockdown and I am glad to say that it was as good as ever with spotless rooms and facilities. It was great to see Landlady Debbie again and receptionist Monica as well as a new member of staff a really nice young lady from Portugal. The continental breakfast is the best anywhere. Its location beside the Cathedral is unbeatable. Highly recommended!