Latest news with #CanterburyPuntingCompany
Daily Record
22-05-2025
- Daily Record
'Little Venice' in UK where you can take a punt down the river and learn dark history
The historic is home to a tranquil canal tour where visitors can take a punt down the river and learn about the city's dark past Imagine meandering through some of the UK's most scenic and historic byways, gliding over pristine waters in a traditional punt, soaking up the sun's gentle rays. In this quaint enclave, travellers can savour the serene delight of a guided punt tour along the gentle river. Settling into your seat, you'll be captivated by the knowledgeable guide's tales, chronicling the ancient city's history and pointing out remarkable landmarks including age-old bridges, beautiful weaver's cottages, local theatres, centuries-old monasteries, and idyllic orchards. The darker chapters of Canterbury's history are not forgotten either; stories include the tragic beheading of a priest and the devastating fire that claimed a historic mill. This approximately 45-minute journey in this charming corner of Kent affords onlookers an exclusive glimpse of Canterbury's hidden gems, with one enthusiastic visitor praising the "crystal clear waters, beautiful buildings, plants and a really unique view passing under bridges and streets" of the idyllic River Stour. The Canterbury Punting Company, recipients of the esteemed Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award 2024, is known for its classic handcrafted wooden punts and charismatic guides who blend local historical knowledge with a talent for storytelling, reports the Mirror. Boasting an enviable 4.8-star rating from over 1,388 reviews on Tripadvisor, this company has clearly left an indelible mark on its customers. This month alone, one enthused customer commented: "What a fantastic experience and led by a very knowledgeable and entertaining guide/punter - not sure what correct terminology is - by the name of Freddy." The same customer continued: "He kept us thoroughly entertained with his tales of yonder whilst on the history boat ride. It was a lovely experience and so relaxing and informative." They went on to say, "Can't wait to try the nature tour next. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to do something a bit different and to see Canterbury from the River Stour." Echoing this praise, a visitor from May added: "Sebastian was a very talented storyteller and informed us of the magical world that is Canterbury. "The tour was relaxing and enjoyable, and my family thoroughly enjoyed it. I highly recommend this to any family who wants a day out relaxing on the river." The River Stour was historically used as a key highway by the Romans and during Medieval times as a crucial link between Canterbury and continental Europe. Nearby Fordwich became important to shipping after the silting up of the southern entrance to the English Channel. The town of Canterbury itself also has deep historical roots, being used by the Romans as a town and hillfort and much of it's Roman history has been unearthed during archaeological digs over the years.
Daily Mirror
21-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
UK's 'little Venice' has crystal clear waters and a fascinating history
The picturesque city of Canterbury in Kent is home to a series of stunning waterways, offering visitors the chance to explore its famous landmarks from a unique perspective Picture yourself drifting through the historic streets of Canterbury, effortlessly cruising on the pristine waters in a classic punt, basking in the warm glow of the sun. In this charming corner of Kent, visitors are treated to the tranquil pleasure of a guided canal tour along the idyllic River Stour. As you nestle into your seat, a well-versed guide will enchant you with stories of the city's storied past, highlighting notable sights such as time-worn bridges, picturesque weaver's cottages, theatres, ancient monasteries and peaceful orchards. The journey also reveals some of Canterbury's more sombre tales, including the grim beheading of an unfortunate priest and the harrowing tale of a mill engulfed by flames. The roughly 45-minute excursion provides a distinctive vantage point of Canterbury's lesser-known treasures, with one visitor lauding the experience for its "crystal clear waters, beautiful buildings, plants and a really unique view passing under bridges and streets." The esteemed Canterbury Punting Company, honoured with the Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award 2024, is celebrated for its traditional handcrafted wooden boats and engaging guides who are not only local historians but also possess a natural flair for storytelling, as reported by KentLive. Their enthralling narratives and adept punting ensure a memorable adventure for everyone embarking on this relaxed voyage, reports Kent Live. This top-rated company proudly holds an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars, based on a staggering 1,388 reviews on Tripadvisor. Just this month, a customer raved: "What a fantastic experience and led by a very knowledgeable and entertaining guide/punter - not sure what correct terminology is - by the name of Freddy. "He kept us thoroughly entertained with his tales of yonder whilst on the history boat ride. It was a lovely experience and so relaxing and informative. "Can't wait to try the nature tour next. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to do something a bit different and to see Canterbury from the River Stour." Sharing the enthusiasm, another visitor from May wrote: "Sebastian was a very talented storyteller and informed us of the magical world that is Canterbury. "The tour was relaxing and enjoyable, and my family thoroughly enjoyed it. I highly recommend this to any family who wants a day out relaxing on the river."
Daily Mirror
19-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
UK's very own 'little Venice' with clear waterways perfect for sunny summer days
There's no better way to discover a historic city than by drifting along its picturesque waterways in a traditional punt. And with the current warm and sunny weather, it's the perfect time to take to the waters in Kent. In Canterbury, a canal tour on the River Stour brings the city's rich history to life. Simply step aboard, sit back, and let the tranquil surroundings wash over you. As you glide along, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with tales of the area's highlights and lowlights, pointing out landmarks like historic bridges, old weaver's houses, theatres, monasteries, and secluded orchards. You'll also hear stories of a ill-fated priest who met a grisly end, a mill that went up in flames, and even catch a glimpse of a replica dunking chair - so be sure to behave yourself. One visitor raved about the experience, describing "crystal clear waters, beautiful buildings, plants and a really unique view passing under bridges and streets," reports Kent Live. The river ride lasts around 40-45 minutes. Canterbury Punting Company, a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award winner for 2024, uses traditional handcrafted wooden boats and employs local historians. With their extensive knowledge and punting skills, they're sure to charm you as you explore the city's waterways. Canterbury Punting Company boasts an impressive 4.8-star rating from a whopping 1,388 Tripadvisor reviews. A recent review this month raved: "What a fantastic experience and led by a very knowledgeable and entertaining guide/punter - not sure what correct terminology is - by the name of Freddy." The reviewer continued: "He kept us thoroughly entertained with his tales of yonder whilst on the history boat ride. It was a lovely experience and so relaxing and informative. Can't wait to try the nature tour next." They also added: "I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to do something a bit different and to see Canterbury from the River Stour." Another glowing review from May shared: "Sebastian was a very talented storyteller and informed us of the magical world that is Canterbury. "The tour was relaxing and enjoyable, and my family thoroughly enjoyed it. I highly recommend this to any family who wants a day out relaxing on the river."
