St George's Tower Clock Tower
A medieval tower in Canterbury, marking the baptismal site of playwright Christopher Marlowe and bearing a WWII plague.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St George's Tower Clock Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A medieval tower in Canterbury, marking the baptismal site of playwright Christopher Marlowe and bearing a WWII plague.
"A remarkable piece of Canterbury's rich history, offering a real sense of stepping back in time."
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss the plague marking and the clock face for unique historical photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Explore the Surroundings
The tower is part of a vibrant city; take time to explore nearby markets and historical sites. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Christopher Marlowe's Baptismal Site
Inside the tower grounds
Stand where literary giant Christopher Marlowe was baptized in 1564. A true connection to English literary history.
Medieval Architecture
Exterior of the tower
Admire the sturdy medieval architecture of this well-preserved 15th-century tower, a testament to its enduring history.
WWII Plague Marking
Exterior of the tower
See the plague marking commemorating the German Bidebekkar raids of WWII, a somber reminder of the city's resilience.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to St. George's Tower
Understanding St. George's Tower's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss the plague marking and the clock face for unique historical photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Explore the Surroundings
The tower is part of a vibrant city; take time to explore nearby markets and historical sites. :walking:
📚 Learn Marlowe's Story
Research Christopher Marlowe before your visit to fully appreciate his connection to this site. :books:
Saw a Facebook page claiming this was 'Canterbury High Street' in 1942... Can anyone verify it? Also, can anyone help with getting bearings? I can't relate any of it to my mental street map of Canterbury!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss the plague marking and the clock face for unique historical photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Explore the Surroundings
The tower is part of a vibrant city; take time to explore nearby markets and historical sites. :walking:
📚 Learn Marlowe's Story
Research Christopher Marlowe before your visit to fully appreciate his connection to this site. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. George's Tower for its significant historical connections, particularly its role as Christopher Marlowe's baptismal site and its WWII plague marking. The well-preserved medieval architecture is also a highlight, offering a tangible link to Canterbury's rich past. Some feel it's not as prominently highlighted as it deserves to be within the city's attractions.
"Christopher Marlowe was baptised in a church on this spot.
The tower bears a plague marking the German Bidebekkar raids of WWII in response to the RAF bombing of Berlin."
Christopher J Keeffe
"St George’s Tower is a remarkable piece of Canterbury’s rich history. The tower’s sturdy medieval architecture and well-preserved condition make it an impressive sight to explore. Its location offers great views of the surrounding area and a real sense of stepping back in time. The informative displays and peaceful surroundings add to the experience, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone curious about the city’s past."
Sakar Pokharel
"This tower is built probably 15th century but the original St George’s church was dated back to Norman times. The church contained an ornate octagonal font. Canterbury’s most famous son, Christopher Marlowe was baptised in this font in 1564. His parents, John and Catherine lived in a house almost opposite the church. Still this place has a history but this place is not much highlighted in town as it deserve. Btw I really like to clock on tower. Simple but eye catching."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. George's Tower is centrally located in Canterbury. If arriving by train, both Canterbury East and Canterbury West stations are within walking distance. For those driving, there are several car parks nearby, though they can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Public transport within the city is also readily available.
Yes, the tower and its surrounding area are generally accessible for groups. It's a popular spot for educational visits, offering a chance to learn about local history and significant figures like Christopher Marlowe.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Viewing the exterior of St. George's Tower and its historical markers is generally free. Access to any internal exhibitions or specific events may require tickets, so it's advisable to check local listings or the official Canterbury tourism website for the most up-to-date information.
As the tower is a historical landmark, its exterior is typically visible at all times. However, if there are any associated visitor centers or specific attractions within the tower, their opening hours will vary. It's best to check with local Canterbury tourist information for precise times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the tower's medieval architecture, see the plague marking from WWII, and learn about its significance as the baptismal site of Christopher Marlowe. The clock on the tower is also a notable feature. +1
Absolutely! The tower's historical architecture, the clock face, and the WWII plague marking offer unique photographic opportunities. The surrounding area also provides charming city views.
St. George's Tower is historically significant as the site where the renowned English playwright Christopher Marlowe was baptized in 1564. It also bears a plague marking from WWII, symbolizing the city's resilience. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, St. George's Tower is located in the heart of Canterbury, which offers a wide array of dining options, from traditional pubs to international cuisine. You'll find numerous cafes and restaurants within easy walking distance.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the intricate details of the medieval architecture, the prominent clock face, and the historical WWII plague marking. The surrounding streets also offer great perspectives.
Drone usage is often restricted in historical city centers and around landmarks due to privacy and safety regulations. It's essential to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it a scavenger hunt to find historical markers around the tower. The surrounding city also offers plenty of family-friendly dining options and other attractions to make a day of it.
📚 History Buffs
Take time to read any available informational plaques and perhaps research Marlowe's life and works beforehand to fully appreciate the significance of this site. The tower's well-preserved condition makes it an authentic glimpse into Canterbury's past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Christopher Marlowe
Marlowe's father was a shoemaker, and his early life in Canterbury, including his education at the King's School, shaped his trajectory. His belief in serving the Queen and his intellectual prowess made him a significant figure in Elizabethan England. The tower serves as a quiet reminder of his humble beginnings and profound impact on English literature.
A Survivor of Conflict: WWII and St. George's Tower
This historical marker adds another layer of depth to the tower's story. It’s not just a medieval structure but also a witness to 20th-century warfare. Visitors can reflect on the historical events that shaped Canterbury and appreciate the preservation efforts that have kept these stories alive for future generations.
Exploring Canterbury's Vibrant Atmosphere
This means that a visit to the tower can easily be combined with exploring local shops, enjoying diverse culinary offerings, and soaking in the general vibrant atmosphere of the city. The proximity to other historical sites and amenities makes it a convenient stop on any Canterbury itinerary.
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