Book on our site
Up to 10% cheaper
than Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From81US$ /night
Check-in
17Jan2026Select date
Check-out
18Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Upper Harbledown, Canterbury, United Kingdom, CT2 9HX
-
Close to Blean Woods Nature Reserve
Great
8.3
8.6
/10
3.9
3.9
/5

Rooms

Holiday Inn Express Canterbury has 89 rooms featuring twin single or double beds; sofa beds are available. Rooms include tea/coffee facilities, a work desk with lamp, and a flat-screen TV. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms. Each room has smoke detectors. Connecting rooms are available.

Dining

The Great Room serves continental cuisine from 6 pm to 9:30 pm. The bar is open 24/7. The hotel provides an Express Start Breakfast with English and continental choices, including sausages, baked beans, and scrambled eggs. New York deli-style favorites like salt beef bagels are dished up in the cafe.

Leisure and Entertainment

The Marlowe Theatre is within a 10-minute drive. Whitefriars Shopping Centre is seven minutes away by car. Guests can explore nearly 100 shops, including Topshop, Marks & Spencer, Next, and Zara.

Location & Transport

Holiday Inn Express Canterbury is located at the Upper Harbledown Service area, accessible from the BP service station on the A2. Canterbury Cathedral is an eight-minute drive. Canterbury West station is seven minutes by car, offering direct trains to London. London City is 95 km away. Car parking is available at a charge of £3 per 24 hours. Four electric car charging points are available.

Services

The hotel provides free Wi-Fi. Two air-conditioned meeting rooms are available for up to 36 people, equipped with modern equipment. The hotel offers daily housekeeping and wake-up calls. Staff can provide fresh snacks and buffet lunches. Printing, copying, and shipping services are available. Guide dogs or service dogs are allowed.

“This hotel stands out as a practical choice near Canterbury's attractions, including the cathedral, with the added benefit of IHG Rewards Club recognition. I appreciate the family-friendly focus and the convenience of on-site amenities like the restaurant and meeting spaces. Logistical considerations appear well-managed, making it a solid base for exploring the area.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
View all

Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Twin Room Hot
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room Sofa Bed Hot
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Hot Accessible
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Room Hot
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Currency exchange
  • Coffee shop
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities
  • Rollaway beds

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Sink

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At Holiday Inn Express Canterbury, an inviting dining experience awaits in the Great Room. With a focus on European cuisine, the atmosphere is a blend of traditional warmth and modern comfort, perfect for families and casual gatherings alike. From hearty breakfasts to delightful dinners, guests can indulge in a range of dishes that cater to various dietary preferences.
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury By Ihg Restaurant photo
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury By Ihg Restaurant photo
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury By Ihg Restaurant photo

Great Room

European
Ambiance
A vibrant, family-friendly dining space featuring contemporary décor, ideal for relaxed meals and socializing.
Key Offerings
Guests can savor a diverse menu that includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Special Sunday Lunch menus curated by Head Chef Sunil promise a delightful culinary experience.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 06:30 to 22:00 for breakfast and dinner.

Location

Upper Harbledown, Canterbury, United Kingdom, CT2 9HX
Map view
Upper Harbledown, Canterbury, United Kingdom, CT2 9HX
Restaurants
Harbledowns Restaurant
100 ft
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury
Explore Canterbury
Explore Canterbury
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
No Man's Orchard
No Man's Orchard
20 minutes' walk
A serene orchard featuring diverse fruit trees; perfect for a leisurely stroll and seasonal fruit picking.
Bigbury Camp
Bigbury Camp
20 minutes' walk
An ancient Iron Age hill fort with stunning views, ideal for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Blean Woods Nature Reserve
25 minutes' walk
A tranquil woodland area home to diverse wildlife; offers scenic walking trails and a perfect escape into nature.
St Augustine's Abbey
St Augustine's Abbey
15 minutes' drive
Historic abbey ruins from the 6th century; noted for its beautiful architecture and educational visitor center.
Druidstone Park
Druidstone Park
10 minutes' drive
Family-friendly park with wildlife exhibits and play areas; great for kids and nature exploration.
Biking at South Blean Nature Reserve
5 minutes' drive
Scenic bike trails through woodlands and meadows; rental services available nearby for easy access.
Harbledowns Restaurant
Harbledowns Restaurant
1 minute' walk
Casual dining with locally-sourced ingredients; try their signature roast or seasonal dishes. Reservations recommended.
The Old Tannery
10 minutes' drive
Charming spot offering British cuisine with a twist; known for its homemade desserts and extensive wine list.
The Marlowe Theatre
10 minutes' drive
Vibrant performing arts venue hosting shows from musicals to drama; check the schedule for family-friendly events.
Kaleidoscope Comedy Club
10 minutes' drive
Popular comedy spot with regular stand-up nights; fun atmosphere with local and touring comedians. Tickets recommended.
Getting around
City Centre
Canterbury6 min  ·  2.4 mi
Airports
London City Airport (LCY)138 min  ·  57.1 mi
London Southend Airport (SEN)165 min  ·  68.1 mi
Train
Canterbury WestTrain Station7 min  ·  2.8 mi
Canterbury East Train Station8 min  ·  2.9 mi
Bus
Bus stop9 min  ·  2300 ft
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exlusive rates right now!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 12 pm
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at GBP 3 per day.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Holiday Inn Express Canterbury By Ihg guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Romanian, Japanese, Polish, Russian, Hindi, Malayalam, Panjabi / Punjabi, Serbian, Tamil
Year renovated:
2011
Number of rooms:
71
Former name
holiday inn express canterbury, an ihg hotel
Questions of the users
About Holiday Inn Express Canterbury By Ihg
Is there a local taxi service available for transportation from the hotel to the city center?
10 December 2024
Yes, taxi services such as Cab Line can be arranged for travel into town.
What is the distance from the hotel to Kent University?
22 January 2024
The hotel is approximately 4.8 kilometers away from Kent University.
Are pets allowed at the hotel, specifically a well-behaved Labrador?
15 March 2025
Only certified guide or service dogs are permitted on the premises.
Can you provide an estimate for a taxi fare to the Canterbury Cathedral?
5 April 2024
The approximate cost for a taxi ride to the cathedral is £10.00 for a round trip.
Is it possible to bring a small dog, like a Maltese, when staying at the hotel?
1 May 2025
The hotel allows only guide dogs, so small pet dogs cannot be accommodated.
Am I allowed to take food back to my room?
10 June 2024
Yes, guests can take food to their rooms.
What breakfast options are currently offered now that restrictions have been lifted?
8 August 2024
The breakfast includes a continental selection along with four cooked items: bacon, sausages, baked beans, and scrambled eggs.
Can key workers stay at the hotel if they have the appropriate documentation?
12 September 2024
Yes, those with key worker status can stay at the hotel.
Do the rooms come equipped with hairdryers?
21 October 2024
Yes, hairdryers are provided in the guest rooms.
Is there a charge for parking at the hotel?
15 November 2025
Parking costs £3.00 per car per night.
How accessible is public transportation from the hotel to the city center?
10 December 2024
A local bus service into Canterbury is available, with a bus stop just a short walk of about 10 meters from the hotel.
What is the check-in policy regarding late arrivals?
25 January 2025
Check-in is available 24 hours a day at the reception.
Is there a facility for storing bicycles at the hotel?
12 February 2025
Yes, bicycles can be stored securely in a designated area under the staircase.
Are there any special arrangements for late check-outs?
18 March 2025
Late check-out is subject to availability and can be arranged for an additional fee.
What dining options are available at the hotel for dinner?
20 April 2024
The hotel's Great Room serves dinner daily from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM with a selection of meals.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
17Jan2026Select date
Check-out
18Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Need more options?
Check Top hotels near Holiday Inn Express Canterbury By Ihg
Howfield Manor Hotel Canterbury Exterior photo
Mobile-only price

Howfield Manor Hotel Canterbury

8.3
Great1351 reviews
3005m from property
USD 105USD 94
per night
The Victoria Hotel Canterbury Exterior photo
Mobile-only price

The Victoria Hotel Canterbury

8.5
Great2134 reviews
3578m from property
USD 78USD 70
per night
House Of Agnes Hotel Canterbury Beds photo
Mobile-only price

House Of Agnes Hotel Canterbury

9.0
Perfect591 reviews
4308m from property
USD 121USD 108
per night