Save up to 10%
by booking directly
compared to Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From81US$ /night
Check-in
26Dec2025Select date
Check-out
27Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Overview and Details

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

Holiday Inn Express Canterbury By IHG - Modern hotel near Canterbury Cathedral

Located at Upper Harbledown Service area, accessible via the BP service station on the A2, this hotel is 5 km from Canterbury West station and 95 km from London City. The property features a 24-hour bar, restaurant serving dinner from 6-10pm, and two air-conditioned meeting rooms accommodating up to 36 people. Free WiFi is available throughout. Whitefriars Shopping Centre with almost 100 shops is a 7-minute drive away. Canterbury Cathedral is 8 minutes by car, while the Marlowe Theatre offering musical performances is less than 10 minutes' drive. Howletts Wild Animal Park, a 90-acre adventure park, is nearby for family outings.

Additional perks of the hotel

Complimentary Express Start Breakfast with hot options including scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausages

Continental breakfast options including cereals, yogurts, fruit juices, and pastries

Free parking for hotel guests at a charge of £3 per 24 hours

Four electric car charging points available on first-come basis

Park and Ride bus service 10 minutes' drive away

Number 3 bus stop nine minutes' walk from hotel

Guest Rooms

The hotel offers 89 smoke-free rooms with cozy twin, single or double beds, and sofa beds available for families with children. Each room includes a private bathroom with power shower, work desk with lamp, and flat-screen TV with cable/satellite channels. Conveniently placed outlets, plush duvets, and pillow menu ensure a comfortable night's sleep.

Other conveniences

Tea and coffee making facilities

Stereo/radio available

Direct dial telephone

Separate wardrobe

Air conditioning

Windows that can be opened by guests

Connecting rooms available upon request

Power adapters available at 220V AC

Must-do experiences

  • Wander through Westgate Gardens for a peaceful riverside stroll.
  • Visit the stunning Canterbury Cathedral; a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Try the famous fish and chips at The Dolphin Inn nearby.
  • Explore the unique St. Augustine's Abbey, rich in history.
  • Don't miss the lively Canterbury Market for local crafts and eats.
View all

Choose Your Room Category

The hotel offers a range of accommodations including doubles, family rooms, and suites—plus breakfast, free cancellation, and special rates.
Standard Twin Room Hot
2 persons
20 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room Sofa Bed Hot
2 persons
20 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Hot Accessible
2 persons
20 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Room Hot
2 persons
20 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Room Availability and Pricing Calendar

Find available rooms and check today's best prices!

Facilities

This hotel provides premium amenities for a memorable and relaxed stay

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 the Holiday Inn Express Canterbury, dining comes alive with an array of flavorful options that seamlessly blend comfort and taste. The Great Room offers a modern yet traditional setting, perfect for families and individuals alike to enjoy European dishes tailored to various dietary needs.
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
Family-friendly, with a modern and traditional décor that invites relaxation and socialization.
Key Offerings
Highlights include hearty breakfast options and a special set Sunday Lunch menu crafted with care by Head Chef Sunil, ensuring everyone enjoys a satisfying meal, whether vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open daily from 06:30 to 22:00 for breakfast and dinner; evening meals served from 18:00 to 22:00.

Hotel Location

Upper Harbledown, Canterbury, United Kingdom, CT2 9HX
Map view
Upper Harbledown, Canterbury, United Kingdom, CT2 9HX
Restaurants
Harbledowns Restaurant
10 m
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury
Explore Canterbury
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
No Man's Orchard
No Man's Orchard
20 minutes' walk
A serene nature area featuring lush orchards and walking paths, ideal for a peaceful escape or family outing.
Bigbury Camp
Bigbury Camp
20 minutes' walk
An ancient hill fort with breathtaking views, perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
South Blean Nature Reserve
South Blean Nature Reserve
20 minutes' walk
A stunning nature reserve boasting diverse wildlife and walking trails, suitable for family adventures.
Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral
15 minutes' drive
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this iconic cathedral features stunning architecture and historical significance.
Druidstone Park
Druidstone Park
10 minutes' drive
A family-friendly outdoor adventure park with fun activities like zip-lining and animal encounters.
Blean Woods Nature Reserve
25 minutes' walk
A tranquil setting for hiking and bird-watching, offering a peaceful retreat in nature.
Harbledowns Restaurant
Harbledowns Restaurant
1 minute' walk
A delightful eatery featuring local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
The Olive Tree
5 minutes' drive
A Mediterranean restaurant known for its fresh dishes, offering a warm ambiance and vegan options.
The Marlowe Theatre
10 minutes' drive
A vibrant venue hosting live performances, including musicals, theater, and concerts for all ages.
Jolly Sailor
5 minutes' drive
A lively pub featuring live music and themed nights, perfect for a fun evening out with friends.
Navigating city
City Centre
Canterbury6 min  ·  3.8 km
Airports
London City Airport (LCY)138 min  ·  91.8 km
London Southend Airport (SEN)165 min  ·  109.6 km
Train
Canterbury WestTrain Station7 min  ·  4.5 km
Canterbury East Train Station8 min  ·  4.7 km
Bus
Bus stop9 min  ·  700 m
Want Access to Early Bird Booking Discounts?
Unlock Exclusive Savings Instantly!
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 transportation service available if I want to visit the town without driving?
5 February 2024
Yes, a taxi service is available through the company Cab Line.
How far is the hotel from Kent University?
15 March 2024
The hotel is located approximately 5 kilometers from Kent University.
Are pets allowed at the hotel?
22 April 2024
Only certified guide or service dogs are permitted.
What would be the typical taxi fare to reach the cathedral?
30 April 2024
The approximate cost for a taxi ride to the cathedral is £10.00 each way.
Can I take food to my room during my stay?
10 May 2024
Yes, food can be taken to the room.
What kind of breakfast options are available?
12 June 2024
Breakfast includes a continental selection along with four cooked items: bacon, sausages, baked beans, and scrambled eggs.
Am I allowed to check in late, such as after 8 PM?
18 July 2024
Yes, check-in is available 24 hours with a staffed reception.
Is there hairdryer available in the guest rooms?
24 August 2024
Yes, each room is equipped with a hairdryer.
Is late checkout an option for guests?
15 September 2024
Late checkout may be available, subject to availability, at a charge of £15.00 per hour, with the latest checkout time at 14:00.
Are there any costs associated with parking at the hotel?
28 October 2024
Parking is available at a charge of £3 per night.
How far is the hotel from the city center of Canterbury?
12 November 2024
The hotel is situated about 6 kilometers from the city center of Canterbury.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
26Dec2025Select date
Check-out
27Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room

Want to save 15%?

Unlock mobile deal now
Book your stay with special mobile rate on and save up to 15%.
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury By Ihg Exterior photo

Holiday Inn Express Canterbury By Ihg

8.3
Great1777 reviews
3.8 km from center
73 US$
81 US$
per night
Mobile-only price