*NEW* The Necessarium
The Necessarium is a rare and extraordinary four-bedroom holiday home set within the hallowed grounds of Canterbury Cathedral.
Thought to date back to the 12th century, this remarkable property blends monastic history with discreet modern comfort. With thick stone walls, leaded windows, and centuries-old wooden beams, The Necessarium offers a tranquil retreat steeped in heritage.
Its interiors are understated yet elegant, with spacious communal areas and peaceful bedrooms that echo the building’s ecclesiastical past while providing all the essentials for a comfortable stay. Guests staying at The Necessarium have the privilege of of residing within one of England’s most iconic World Heritage Sites.
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(Minimum 3-night stay)
Staying in the Cathedral grounds
Canterbury Cathedral, just steps away, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of the oldest Christian structures in England, attracting visitors from around the world.
Attend evensong, explore the crypt, or marvel at the stained-glass windows that have illuminated the lives of pilgrims for generations. Beyond the Cathedral precincts, Canterbury is a compact yet vibrant city brimming with charm and culture. Stroll along the medieval lanes lined with timber-framed buildings, browse independent shops and cafés, or walk in the footsteps of Chaucer’s pilgrims along the King’s Mile. The Canterbury Roman Museum and the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge offer fascinating glimpses into the city’s layered past.
A short walk brings you to the River Stour, where punting tours offer a peaceful perspective of the city’s hidden corners. The wider areas offer easy access to the Kent Downs AONB, historic castles such as Leeds and Dover, and the coastal gems of Whitstable and Sandwich.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual reflection, architectural wonder, or a base for exploring East Kent, The Necessarium places you at the heart of it all, within walls that have quietly witnessed nearly 1,000 years of English history.
Facilities
Lower Ground Floor:
Kitchen: Breakfast table and French doors leading to patio and garden
Appliances include electric oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine. 1x highchair provided.
First Floor (main entrance):
Dining Room: Seating for eight and small upright piano
Living Room: Smart TV
Bedroom 1: Super Kingsize (6ft) bed
Separate Toilet
Second Floor:
Bedroom 3: Super king (6ft) bed
Bedroom 4: 2 x Single (3ft) beds
Bathroom: Bath with shower over, heated towel rail, toilet
Good to know
Check in: Arrive after 15:00
Check out: Depart before 10:00
What’s included?
Wifi, electricity, bed linen, towels, gas central heating, travel cot and highchair, courtyard, enclosed lawned garden with patio and garden furniture
Smoking: No smoking permitted
Restrictions: Sorry, no stag or hen parties
Accessibility: Due to the historic layout of the property, regrettably there is no step-free access or wheelchair accessible facilities. The main entrance is via steps, opening up into the first floor where the reception rooms and WC are situated, with a large staircase up to the bedrooms and bathrooms on the second floor, and the kitchen is located on the lower ground level, down a narrow staircase.
Canterbury Cathedral Lodge is owned and operated by Canterbury Cathedral (Charity no. 1206913). All income from the Lodge supports the care, conservation, worship, music, learning and visitor welcome of Canterbury Cathedral.