A Christmas less ordinary

AT the risk of ‘indecency and tumultuous conduct’—the reasons given in 1813 for shutting down the Christmas market outside Canterbury Cathedral—the precincts of the Kent landmark abound with produce, merriment and song once more this year, for the first time in more than two centuries.

- Annunciata Elwes

Despite the hiatus, the market is a long-standing tradition, first held in 1383 following a royal grant from Richard II; now, together with a light show, it runs to December 24. Beyond it, within the cathedral’s ancient walls—realm of the spiritual head of the Anglican community and where Thomas Becket was famously murdered—the seasonal offering includes carol services from the world-renowned cathedral choir (December 23 and 24). Other events include stained-glass windows tours, a candlelit e