This great abbey, marking the rebirth of Christianity in southern England, was founded shortly after AD 597 by St Augustine. Originally created as a burial place for the Anglo-Saxon kings of Kent, it is part of the Canterbury World Heritage Site, along with the cathedral and St Martin's Church.The impressive abbey is situated outside the city walls and is sometimes missed by visitors. At the abbey, you can also enjoy the museum and free audio tour.
Free Guided Tours for Members
Members' Event
Fri 24 Feb
Make the most of your membership with English Heritage this winter by joining us for a free special guided tour. Tours are available at a variety of sites and exclusively for members.
Decline and Fall of the Abbey
Fri 16 Mar
This tour looks at how the various phases of buildings on the St Augustine Abbey site have met their demise, through the withdrawal of Roman civilisation, to the earthquake of 1342, the dissolution of the monasteries to the conversion of a brewery.
For just £46 a year, English Heritage members get free entry to our properties and exclusive discounts.