Canterbury Punting on the Great Stour

Punting on the Great Stour offers a different perspective on Canterbury, allowing you to experience the medieval city and surrounding landscape from the water. The Great Stour flows through Canterbury and the surrounding Kent countryside, and several operators offer both guided punting tours and self-hire boats from central locations.

Punting trips typically take you past historic bridges, medieval buildings and the Cathedral, with commentary explaining the city's history and landmarks. Longer self-hire trips allow you to venture further into the countryside, gliding past meadows, historic mills and woodland. The river is generally calm and suitable for all levels of experience, though first-timers may prefer a guided tour to get the hang of pole-work on the current.

The Great Stour has been used for transport and recreation for centuries, and punting provides an intimate way to explore the waterway and settlement pattern of the region. It combines mild exercise with leisurely sightseeing and offers a peaceful experience away from the streets of the city centre.