Westgate Towers, Canterbury

Westgate Towers stand as the most impressive of Canterbury's surviving medieval fortifications. Built in the late 14th century as part of the city's defensive wall, this imposing twin-towered gatehouse guarded the principal west entrance to the walled city. The structure was erected under the direction of royal commissioners and remains a striking example of medieval military architecture, with its crenellated walls and machicolated towers still clearly visible.

Visitors can climb the original stone spiral staircases to explore the tower chambers and emerge onto the upper levels, where views sweep across Canterbury's skyline and surrounding landscape. The interior houses exhibitions detailing the tower's history and its role in defending the medieval city. The Westgate also displays a collection of historic cannons and weaponry, offering insight into medieval warfare and city defence. Access to the top provides one of the finest vantage points in Canterbury, revealing the street patterns of the ancient city below and views towards the surrounding Kentish countryside. The adjoining stretch of medieval city wall remains largely intact, making a walk along the ramparts a rewarding exploration of Canterbury's 14th-century defences.