St Martins Church

England's oldest parish church in continuous use, dating from Saxon times and predating Canterbury Cathedral. This UNESCO World Heritage site played a crucial role in bringing Christianity to Anglo-Saxon England and features Roman bricks in its ancient walls. At 30-45 minutes and free entry, it works well slotted between larger visits rather than as a standalone destination.

Priority: Medium - include with 2+ days Time needed: 30-45 minutes Best for: stand in england's oldest continuously used Skip if: You prefer grand architecture over historical significance Cost: Free

You'll enter a simple but profoundly historic space with thick stone walls and ancient atmosphere. The sense of continuous worship spanning centuries is palpable in this intimate church.

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and interior, with accessible parking available

Stand in England's oldest continuously used church with 1,400 years of history. It is not the first thing you should see in Canterbury, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. It pairs naturally with St Augustine's Abbey and Canterbury Cathedral - add it before or after without rearranging your day. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You prefer grand architecture over historical significance

• Look for Roman bricks in the walls.
• Visit the font where early Anglo-Saxons were baptized.
• Combine with St Augustine's Abbey nearby.

Insider tip: Queen Bertha of Kent worshipped here before Augustine's arrival, making it older than official English Christianity

Photography welcome throughout. The Roman brick details and Saxon stonework make excellent close-up subjects.