Christmas market returns to Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest religious structures in the UK

A Christmas market returns to the grounds of Canterbury Cathedral for the first time in 200 years.

The cathedral’s festive market first opened in 1383 and gained popularity until it closed in 1813.

The modern Christmas market, which opens Friday, will offer food and drink outlets, a vintage-style carousel ride and live music performances.

It will be an extension to the existing festive market which spans the city centre.

The cathedral has a full programme of Christmas events inspired by the theme of 'Journeys', including a life-size indoor nativity crib scene.

Canterbury's expanded Christmas market will open with the Christmas Light Parade and will run until Christmas Eve.

Lisa Carlson, CEO of Canterbury Business Improvement District, said: "This is a really key time of year for our businesses community, of which over 68% are independent, so we hope to see lots of people making a beeline for Canterbury over the coming weeks."