Guests say
The Necessarium offers a unique and memorable stay within the historic grounds of Canterbury Cathedral, boasting stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Guests consistently praise the property's cleanliness, spaciousness, and characterful charm. The central location is ideal for exploring Canterbury, and the staff and security are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness. While the property is well-equipped, guests mention that the stairs are steep and may not suit those with mobility issues. Some minor suggestions include improved lighting, clearer directions, and small additions to kitchen supplies. Overall, guests feel privileged to stay in such a special setting.
Multiple reviews highlight the property as spotless, clean, and well-maintained throughout, with no negative comments regarding cleanliness.
The location is universally praised for its central position within Canterbury Cathedral grounds, offering peaceful surroundings and exceptional views.
Guests find the property spacious, cosy, and comfortable, though some note the stairs are steep and the fire doors heavy, which may affect ease of movement for those with mobility concerns.
The house is described as well-equipped, with a good kitchen and a range of books and games. Some guests mention minor improvements such as better lighting, clearer instructions, and additional kitchen items.
Staff and security are repeatedly described as friendly and helpful, and guests feel welcomed. While no gifts are mentioned, the attentive service stands out, though gifts cannot be guaranteed.
About this property
The Necessarium is a rare and extraordinary four-bedroom holiday home set within the hallowed grounds of Canterbury Cathedral..
Ground Floor:
Kitchen: Electric Oven, Gas Hob, Microwave, Fridge/Freezer, Dishwasher, Washing Machine, French Doors Leading To Courtyard
Separate Toilet.
First Floor:
Living room: Smart TV
Dining room.
Second Floor:
Bedroom 1: Super Kingsize (6ft) Bed
Bedroom 2: Super Kingsize (6ft) Bed
Ensuite: Cubicle Shower, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet
Third Floor:
Bedroom 3: Super Kingsize (6ft) Bed
Bedroom 4: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Bathroom: Bath With Shower Over, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet.
Gas central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Travel cot and highchair. Welcome pack. Courtyard. Enclosed lawned garden with patio and garden furniture. Private parking for 2 cars. No smoking. Please note: Sorry, no stag or hen parties.. Thought to date back to the 12th century, this remarkable property blends monastic history with discreet modern comfort. With thick stone walls, leaded windows, and centuries-old wooden beams, The Necessarium offers a tranquil retreat steeped in heritage.
Its interiors are understated yet elegant, with spacious communal areas and peaceful bedrooms that echo the building’s ecclesiastical past while providing all the essentials for a comfortable stay. Due to the nature of the historic building the Kitchen is on the bottom level with a stair case with handrail leading to the floor that contains the dining room and living room. Guests staying at The Necessarium have the privilege of residing within one of England’s most iconic World Heritage Sites.
Canterbury Cathedral, just steps away, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of the oldest Christian structures in England, attracting visitors from around the world. Attend evensong, explore the crypt, or marvel at the stained-glass windows that have illuminated the lives of pilgrims for generations. Beyond the Cathedral precincts, Canterbury is a compact yet vibrant city brimming with charm and culture. Stroll along medieval lanes lined with timber-framed buildings, browse independent shops and cafés, or walk in the footsteps of Chaucer’s pilgrims along the King’s Mile. The Canterbury Roman Museum and the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge offer fascinating glimpses into the city’s layered past.
A short walk brings you to the River Stour, where punting tours offer a peaceful perspective of the city’s hidden corners. The wider area offers easy access to the Kent Downs aonb, historic castles such as Leeds and Dover, and the coastal gems of Whitstable and Sandwich. Whether you’re seeking spiritual reflection, architectural wonder, or a base for exploring East Kent, The Necessarium places you at the heart of it all, within walls that have quietly witnessed nearly 1,000 years of English history.
Free WiFi
No stag, hen or other party bookings allowed.
Suitable for up to 1 pet
Nearby points of interest
- Minnis Bay
Reviews (9)
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Confirmed Guest
It was great to stay on the cathedral grounds. We were comfortable and it was very spacious. Getting to the kitchen was rather hazardous as it was down steep narrow steps. As a result there was really no way to use the dining room because it was too hard to carry food up from the kitchen to the dining room. It was difficult to get the heating correct between the rooms. Be aware that all of the bedroom doors and the living room door are very heavy fire doors that you cannot prop open for safety. So they kept slamming if you didn't carefully catch the door. You really had a feeling of staying in history. The Necessarium is actually a former latrine for the monks hundreds of years ago.. The grounds were peaceful and quiet.
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Confirmed Guest
Absolutely loved the property, such an amazing location. Felt quite privileged to be within the grounds of Canterbury Cathedral with astounding views. If I were to be picky and to make the stay 100%, would be great to have better walking map route/ directions from the station. Also a couple of items missing that would be useful - oven gloves, kitchen roll, hand towel for the kitchen. Also some of us couldn’t get on the Wi-Fi and would have been great to see a list of items we can or can’t recycle, bins in the bedrooms, a further full length mirror, label for the keys as we had no idea what they were all for, history on the actual building and maybe photos of the renovations would have added to the experience.But honestly, we had an amazing time and the staff in Cathedral lodge were so helpful as were the police on the gate!
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Confirmed Guest
We had a wonderful and really magical family Christmas in this incredible location. We were made to feel so welcome and any questions or concerns were dealt with promptly, efficiently and the staff were so friendly and could not have been more helpful. The Necessarium was really cosy, comfortable and spacious, a truly special place. It's good for future guests to know a couple of things. When you arrive at Mint Gate there is a barrier and security, this is where you enter - the police on the gate were wonderful, helpful and so friendly. The kitchen is a great space and opens onto the small garden, but it is down steepish stairs. The living and dining room on the next floor up and the bedrooms on the next two floors up. The internet can be very hit and miss, we had none when we arrived, reception sorted that out. Apparently there is a bit of an issue with coverage in Canterbury. We loved our stay.