St Martin's Church, Canterbury

One of three churches in Canterbury inscribed by UNESCO, this is also the oldest of the three. Founded in 496 AD, this church predated both Canterbury Cathedral and St. Augustine Abbey. It's both the oldest church in England and the oldest church in continuous use.

The church is almost like a fine miniature example of Gothic Perpendicular style and much of the architectural features of the interior remain sympathetic to the original design. The stained glass windows pay testimony to Queen Bertha of Kent, who founded the church and who converted her pagan husband Æthelberht of Kent to christianity.

Absolutely beautifully little church to visit. The church do not charge an entrance fee, so do donate for the upkeep of the church.

The oldest church in continuous use in English speaking world, a part of Canterbury World Heritage Site. Its first base was built in AD597 and it is the cemetery of more than 900 graves.

If in Canterbury you cannot go away without visiting St Martin's Church. It is the oldest church in the English speaking world and full of history!

It is a tiny church where Roman, Saxon and Norman styles merge in an interesting way.

The site does not have many info panels but fortunately there is a great guide that explains very well!

The oldest Church in the English speaking world that is still used for services.
The place is of significance for Christians as it is the base from which Christianity was spread in England.
It was also the base from which the other 2 great churches in Cantebury were built. St. Augustine Abbey (which is now in ruins) and the great Cantebury Cathedral. You can see both from here.

The oldest church in Canterbury. We were welcomed by a pleasing parishioner who was pleased to tell us the deep history of the church and answer our questions. You can leave your prayer request in the book at the entrance of the church and your prayer request is offered during the 12 noon prayer offering on Thursday.
You will have to walk to the church.

I highly recommend visiting this magnificent site on a trip to Canterbury. It is the oldest church building in Britain, which is still in use as a church. It is free to enter and explore. The guide here is brilliant, she was very friendly and knowledgeable on the history of the building and King Ethelbert and Queen Bertha. May God bless this holy place, and let it flourish as a church for many generations.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Supposedly the oldest church in the english-speaking world! Erected in AD597 by St Augustine. Out of season it is only open at weekends and we were there mid-week! Lovely setting and it is possible to park a little way down the road (free for an hour or two at weekends). Would have loved to have had a look around inside but that will have to wait for another time.

If you are in Canterbury this church is well worth visit. It is the oldest church in the English speaking world. It is a short walk from the cathedral.