Where can I find the Rupert Bear museum

Asks Katie

A. There isn't an entire museum devoted to this loveable bear, but there is a permanent Rupert Bear exhibition held in the Heritage Museum in Canterbury, Kent. Mary Tourtel, his creator lived, worked and studied in the city, so it is an apt place for Rupert Bear fans to visit. It is located on Stour Street close to the city centre.

The Heritage Museum provides lots of information on other famous residents of the city, and is a great place to start any tour of the city as its artefacts; exhibits and information centre form the historical backbone to everything available to the tourist.

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Q. What else is there to do in Canterbury

A. The city is steeped in history, back in Roman times it was known as the settlement of Duovernum and it was the first stop for Augustine in AD597, when he was sent from Rome to England to preach Christianity. The oldest parts of the city are a World Heritage Site, so there is lots for visitors to see and do, and as most of the city is pedestrianised it is really easy to cover on foot if you're visiting for the weekend.

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Canterbury Cathedral: is the original Anglican seat in England and is one of the most famous churches in the country, as it was the first cathedral in England (founded shortly after Augustine's arrival in 597AD). The cathedral as it stands today dates back to 1071, with a 12th Century quire and 13th Century stained glass windows. It contains the tombs of The Black Prince and Henry IV and was the site of the martyrdom of St Thomas.

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St Augustine's Abbey: you can visit the ruins of England's first abbey (dates back to 598 AD) with an audio tour guide for �2.50. A museum and information centre is also close by.

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Canterbury Tales Visitor Centre: as the city was the site for Chaucer's lewd tales it is only fitting that an exhibition devoted to the Canterbury Tales and medieval England is held here. The exhibition recreates the 14th Century with sights, sounds and smells of medieval England while The Canterbury Tales are told and accompanied by a great light and sound presentation. It can be found on St Margaret's Street -and is a must for any visitor.

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The Chaucer Centre: you can find out about the life and times of Chaucer through a detailed exhibition. Drama workshops also take place throughout the year.

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Medieval sights: there are lots of sites within the city to visit some of these include Greyfriars, a 13th Century house near the Stour River; West Gate Museum, the building is an old fortress and boasts fantastic views of the entire city from its battlements; and 13th Century Eastbridge Hospital, located in the High Street.

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Marlowe Theatre: if you have chance to see a play or event here during your stay it would be well worth it as it is renowned as one of the best in the country, outside London. In October alone it will play host to the National Dance Theatre of Jamaica (2-3 October); David Essex (4-5 October); Jack Dee (6-7 October); Rent (8-13 October); Nanci Griffith (15 October).

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The Gulbenkian Theatre is another great venue. It is situated within the grounds of the University of Kent, but open to all visitors. Its performances for October include Blood & Roses, Twisted Roots, A Woman's Voice and Mark Thomas.

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Q. Can you recommend a good hotel

A. The following are both great places to stay:

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The Ebury Hotel, 65-67 New Dover Road, Canterbury CT1 3DX

Telephone: 01227 768433

The Ebury is a 2 star hotel close to the city centre, with a heated indoor swimming pool and a fantastic restaurant.

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The Chaucer Hotel, 63 Ivy Lane, Canterbury CT1 1TU

Telephone: 01227 464427

This is one of the most popular hotels in the city; some rooms have 4 poster beds.

Q. Is it easy to get to Canterbury on public transport

A. The city is well served with trains and coaches. For trains, Connex South Eastern operates trains from London Victoria and London Charing Cross. For more information on train times ring 0345 484950, or visit the Railtrack website at www.railtrack.co.uk.

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For coaches, National Express run to Canterbury from London Victoria Coach Station, Tel: 0990 808080 or contact their website at www.gobycoach.com.

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Detailed information on visiting Canterbury is available from the Canterbury Visitor Information Centre, 34 St. Margaret's Street, Canterbury CT1 2TG. Telephone: 01227 766567.

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By Karen Anderson