The historic city of Canterbury, located in South East England, is a hidden gem in the UK that is often missed on travellers’ hit lists. Rookie mistake, I say. This town has a rich cultural history, making it the perfect place for culture enthusiasts and history buffs.
The city is most famous for its Gothic/Romanesque Cathedral that dates back to 597 AD! Not only is it loved by the local people but it is also recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you know it’s gonna be good.
Now, Airbnbs in Canterbury are pretty damn cool – you’ll find an eclectic mix of old and new. Think modern city centre apartments coupled with historic cottages, and medieval townhouses. There are even some luxury barn conversions thrown in for good measure!
Regardless of the type of Airbnb, these rentals in Canterbury all have one thing in common – they really capture that small English town charm. I’ve hand-picked out a few epic spots for you to check out. I’ve collated a great mix of rental types to meet all budgets and needs.
So, let’s jump right in.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: These Are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Canterbury
Cosy 2 Bedroom Home in the Heart of Canterbury
- > $$$
- > 4 guests
- > Private backyard (fully fenced)
- > River views from the home
Delightful twin bedded room
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Luggage drop-off off allowed
- > Private room with access to shared spaces
Crippens, glorious Historic central EV parking
- > $$$$
- > 8 guests
- > EV charger
- > Beautiful and elegant finishes throughout
Self-contained studio Annexe
- > $
- > 1 guest
- > Free parking on the premises
- > Perfect annexe with its own separate entrance
Centrally Located a Home from Home – Free Parking
- > $$
- > 4 guests
- > Fast WiFi
- > Comfortable home away from home feel
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Canterbury
Now, regardless of the type of Airbnb in Canterbury, one thing is for sure – you’re going to experience some of the UK’s finest English charm. I’m talkin’ open, wood-burning fireplaces, those exposed wooden beams, and that traditional cottage décor.
You can expect a whole host of modern amenities that will no doubt make your trip to the UK a comfortable one. Things like fully-equipped kitchens, WiFi, HDTVs, and fireplaces almost go without saying. You might even be lucky enough to find yourself warming up in a hot tub or having a barbecue outside in the summertime!
Cleanliness and comfort also go without saying but don’t get put off by what might be seen as inconveniences or faults. I’m talking about those low ceilings, winding staircases, and even sloping floors. Embrace the quirky charm as it will just make your trip to this gorgeous place in the UK that much more wholesome and authentic.
This might be blindingly obvious to you but always do some proper research when looking for an Airbnb in Canterbury. While it’s not fully guaranteed, it will give you a pretty good indication of what to expect. Read those reviews, check out those photos, compare prices, and look up that location.
But luckily I’ve done most of that for you – so, let’s take a look at the best Airbnbs in Canterbury.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Canterbury
Right, now that we’ve gotten some of the nitty-gritty out the way, we can delve into the real meaty part of the article. Here are some of the top Airbnb rentals that money can rent you in Canterbury:
Cosy 2 Bedroom Home in the Heart of Canterbury | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Canterbury
So, it’s great value that you’re after? Well, look no further than this awesome little two-bedroom home in the heart of Canterbury. It can comfortably sleep a family, a couple, or even a couple of couples. Sleeping arrangements take the format of two double bedrooms, that two small children can also share.
But there’s a whole lot more packed into this space than just the bedrooms! There’s a fully-equipped kitchen, a washer and a dryer, WiFi, and even a 50″ HDTV with Netflix. There’s also a fully-fenced private backyard for those summertime dinners and river views to calm the soul.
Oh, and did I mention the Smeg Gas hob and oven for whipping up some epic meals? How goood!
Delightful twin bedded room | Best Budget Airbnb in Canterbury
Let’s face it, not all of us have an unlimited budget and can just throw cash at luxury accommodation. Some travellers are looking for a budget option and this Airbnb in Canterbury gives that box a BIG tick.
It can sleep two guests and makes use of two single beds in the same room, so it’s ideal for a couple of mates. There’s WiFi, a desk, a TV, and a wardrobe to make the stay comfortable and serve as a great base. The only catch is that the bathroom is shared, but only with one other guest – so it ain’t sooo bad.
The is no kitchen available but there is tea and coffee with a kettle in the room too. This is the perfect, centrally-located base for a budget trip to Canterbury!
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REICrippens, glorious Historic central EV parking | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in Canterbury
Nothing quite speaks luxury than a beautifully decorated home – and that’s exactly what this unit is. It can sleep up to eight guests across three bedrooms and it’s the perfect option for an epic friends weekend away. It also works well for a family holiday taking the aunt and uncle and granny and grandpa along too!
Aside from the usual amenities like WiFi, TV, washer, and free parking, there’s a stunning full-equipped kitchen featuring high-end appliances and even an EV charger. This beautifully decorated home has a warm, comforting, and relaxing vibe to it.
And, have you seen that insane copper bathtub? You’re welcome!
Self-contained studio Annexe | Perfect Canterbury Airbnb for Solo Travellers
Not all of us travel in groups or even pairs, some of us require a spot as a solo traveller in the UK and that’s where this rental in Canterbury comes in. It’s a private, self-contained annex that forms part of a family home, but has its own separate entrance. It’s ideal for a solo traveller on a business or leisure trip.
It’s a short walk from the centre of the city but the beauty is that it is semi-rural meaning that country walks are on the cards. They’re the ideal way to relax and take your mind off the hustle and bustle of work and city life. The unit also boasts a cute kitchen and dining area with other home comforts like a TV with standard cable, a washer, a hairdryer, and of course, WiFi.
Centrally Located a Home from Home – Free Parking | Perfect Short-Term Airbnb in Canterbury for Digital Nomads
Mi casa es su casa is the motto of this apartment – our home is your home. It’s the perfect spot for a digital nomad looking for a Canterbury Airbnb as a base while doing some local exploring too. It also provides some homely comforts for those who crave them while travelling and spending extended periods of time away from home.
There’s a perfect table setup to crank out some work at or if that’s too formal for you, you can always utilise the couch in the living room. But most importantly, there’s fast WiFi to get some sh*t done.
In addition, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen, a washing machine, and it’s a pet-friendly Airbnb for those nomads who like to travel with their furry friends.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Canterbury
You didn’t think that was it, did you? Here are a few more epic Airbnbs in Canterbury:
The Little Yurt Retreat – Rural city centre break!
Want to feel like you’re not in the UK while still remaining in the UK? This awesome little yurt retreat will transport you to rural Mongolia but still give you all the modern-day luxuries to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
Think WiFi, HDTV, and a smart speaker coupled with a large outdoor bath, BBQ, and a luxury tardis toilet, this is definitely the most fun you’ll have at an Airbnb in Canterbury. Think urban glamping but ramped up 10-fold!
Stunning Georgian Cottage In The City
This epic Georgian cottage has been newly renovated and is the perfect Canterbury Airbnb for friends, a couple, or even a small family. The cottage dates back to the 1800s but has a wonderfully new, light, and bright feel about it. It also comes equipped for young children with a pack ’n play/travel crib and a high chair (young families, rejoice!)
And then there are a couple of the other usual amenity suspects – WiFi, dedicated workspace, fully-equipped bespoke kitchen, and a washer all cleaning products included too. The Dane John Gardens are also adjacent to the property adding to the quiet, residential feel of the place.
Stunning Mews House in Canterbury
This awesome little house is the perfect venue for a couple of friends to spend a relaxing weekend away. The bathroom has a shower in the bath so again, you’ve got options. Quick shower, or long, relaxing bath!
The unit comes equipped with a crib so it’s an ideal Airbnb for families with a small child but that doesn’t mean no fun for the adults. There’s a smart TV with a Sky subscription and a small kitchen to whip up some of your own chef creations. You can even have your own little date night and make use of the dinette followed by a glass (or bottle) of wine in the living room.
Jasmine Cottage – Central Canterbury
You know what they say – location, location, location! And this little cottage really epitomises that. Located in central Canterbury, you’d think it would be buzzing and noisy, but it’s quite the opposite. So, it’s a double win really – it’s quiet and relaxing but within walking distance of most major attractions.
This Canterbury Airbnb can sleep 4 guests across 3 different areas. There’s a main double bedroom, a second single bedroom, and a sofa bed. There’s a lovely outside area with a table and chairs for those summer meals. I’m talkin’ an alfresco, baby!
Beautiful Cozy but Spacious City Cottage & Parking
This charming cottage is nestled in a beautiful little urban garden and is ideally located within the city. It’s a five-minute walk from both the railway station and the main restaurants, shops, and bars so you don’t even need a car! The bonus is there’s free parking on the premises if you do have one.
There’s a fully equipped kitchen, a washer and dryer, and even a pack ’n play/travel crib for the little ones. Not to mention the awesome little outside area for those summer evening dinners!
Boutique Central Canterbury Home, Free Parking
This gorgeous townhouse in Canterbury has a modern and sleek feel to it, fitted out with retro Danish furniture. There’s a neat workspace that’s ideal for sending off a few emails or knocking out a bit of admin, tucked away at the top of the spiral staircase.
The modern kitchen has all the appliances you’ll ever need and the unit also boasts automated black-out blinds for an uninterrupted sleep! It’s also perfectly located in the city and within walking distance of the Cathedral, shops, and restaurants.
Stunning 4-bedroom townhouse in central Canterbury
This four-bedroom home in Canterbury is the perfect rental for those larger families or groups of mates. The rooms all have double beds in them so it’s perfect for four couples, or serves equally as well for a family or two with kids.
It’s pet-friendly so you can take your furry friends along with you to enjoy the weekend away in a new environment. There’s a fully-equipped kitchen, washer and dryer, and a dedicated workspace for all you workaholics.
Contemporary bolthole, a short walk from City
Looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of life back home? Then this condo is the place for you! It’s light, bright, and airy and centrally located in Canterbury within walking distance from most bars, restaurants, and attractions.
While the space is minimalistic in feel, it’s not minimalistic in what it provides. Think washer and dryer, full kitchen, HDTV, and even a central air-conditioning system for those warm summer days. The unit also makes use of solar for generating electricity so you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint too!
Cosy terrace within city walls ideal for exploring
Unassuming on the outside, this Canterbury Airbnb has been newly renovated and is the perfect base for exploring the Medieval city. It’s a mere two-minute walk from the high street so you won’t need your car to get around.
The Victorian terrace has maintained much of its former charm with sash windows, terracotta tiles, and even its original fireplace. The interior is still wonderfully modern with all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable trip for yourself and some mates, or the family too.
A Character Cottage in Historical Canterbury
This quaint cottage is the final Airbnb rental in Canterbury that I’ve picked. Why you ask? Well, it’s the perfect spot for a weekend away for those travelling as a family, or a few mates. It sleeps four guests in a room with a double bed and a room with two single beds, so it’s ideal for a family.
The interior is spacious and cosy with a rather interesting spiral staircase that forms the centrepiece of the living room. It’s also centrally located, has a fully-equipped kitchen, and provides hotel-quality linen and towels. Look no further if you’re after a central base for exploring but also somewhere to relax and unwind afterwards.
FAQs About Airbnbs in Canterbury
No question is a bad question, right? Chances are there are others that have the same question too. So, here are some of the most commonly asked ones:
What To Pack For Canterbury
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Canterbury Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Canterbury.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Airbnbs in Canterbury
That brings me to the end of the best Airbnbs in Canterbury. There are a couple of real gems here and there’s something for everyone’s taste, preference, and of course, budget!
And remember – the best Airbnb in Canterbury is the one that you like the most. It’s a subjective topic and my best and your best are very different things. But I can rest assured knowing that there’s a townhouse, cottage, condo, or even a Mongolian yurt that will tickle your fancy.
If you’re still unsure, I’d lock in my top pick for the best overall value: a cosy 2-Bedroom Home in the Heart of Canterbury. This treasure will provide you with the perfect mix of British charm, modern comforts and a bangin’ location.
Wherever you end up, I hope you have an incredible time in Canterbury <3
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our Backpacking around the UK guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Make sure you visit the most beautiful places in the UK too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks in the UK.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
