Visiting Canterbury

What To Expect, Briefing and Logistics From London

Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Overview

Canterbury Cathedral is the major attraction for visitors from London, but there is much, much more that for the independent traveler will easily fill up a day here.


Canterbury itself is only 90 minutes from London by frequent train so its easily accessible independently by all visitors to London. We have a dedicated page outlining public transport between Canterbury and London.


Given that Canterbury Cathedral is the main attraction for visitors to Canterbury we would suggest avoiding visiting on a Sunday. The cathedral is closed to the public much of the day on Sundays.

Its always worth checking with the Canterbury cathedral web site before hand. There are often events that will result in restricted access on these days too.

Canterbury Overview
Canterbury Cathedral
Roman Museum
Walking Tours
Other Things To Do
 
Leeds Castle
Dover Castle
Getting There
Canterbury
Leeds Castle
Dover
 
Day Tours From London

We have a dedicated page on Canterbury Cathedral and what to expect. Canterbury Cathedral is at the heart of the medieval city centre of Canterbury.


Canterbury is a regional shopping centre too with the shopping area merging into the historic sights and buildings. There is no shortage of restaurants for all budgets in the bustling centre.


If you are staying a day or longer we would recommend that you take the Canterbury Walking Tour that leaves from outside the tourist information centre at 11:00.

Canterbury Cathedral

Its a great first item on your agenda, giving you orientation, background and an opportunity to sound out a local guide with no commercial bias of the attractions on offer for you to visit later. You'll hear and see things not in any guide book too.


We have separate pages of other things to do in Canterbury with a special mention of the Roman Museum of Canterbury.


If you are tight for time we also highlight day tours from London including Canterbury. These commonly twin a visit to Canterbury with a visit to Leeds Castle and the white cliffs of Dover.

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle

Often described as the ‘loveliest castle in the world,’ Leeds Castle is not far from Canterbury.

Many of the coach tours from London combine Canterbury and Leeds Castle. The castle set on two islands and has been home to royalty, lords, and ladies for over 1000 years.


Besides the historic Leeds Castle itself there are extensive grounds with many walks in the grounds, a large aviary, falconry displays, a maze, vineyard, golf course and much else. An ideal place to bring a picnic.


Unlike many castles like Windsor with its emphasis on a 'serious' tour of history and royalty, Leeds Castle is more informal and more set up for a longer visit with much emphasis on keeping the kids happy.

Dover Castle

Dover Castle Cathedral

Just to the south east of Canterbury is Dover with frequent train and bus connections.


Dover Castle sits strategically upon the famous White Cliffs of Dover, overlooking the port and town far below.


Today you can tour the Secret Wartime Tunnels. Dover Castle, the Roman Lighthouse and much more. There is much to see, an average visit taking a whole morning or afternoon. Dover Castle is open daily.


The famous White Cliffs of Dover go east and west from the town of the Dover. There is a visitor centre quite close to Dover Castle.

Dover Castle

Leeds Castle, Greenwich and Canterbury Tour

- Private viewing of Leeds castle - The loveliest castle in the world.

- Free time to enjoy the rest of the Castle including the Henry II tower

- Entrance to Canterbury Cathedral

- Walking tour of historic Greenwich

- Tea/sparkling wine and scones served on River Thames cruise

Canterbury Cathedral

After being picked up directly from or close to your hotel, we drive straight to Leeds Castle. for a unique private viewing before the castle opens to the public.


From here we travel to the coast to have lunch in a charming inn overlooking the White Cliffs of Dover and with breathtaking views of the English Channel.


Our afternoon is spent enjoying the delights of Canterbury with its magnificent Cathedral, before heading to Greenwich where we hear fascinating maritime tales about this historic town.


As the sun begins to set we board our luxury boat for a Champagne cruise along the river Thames taking us all the way back to London.

What a day!

Leeds Castle and Canterbury - Full Tour Details

Dover Castle, Canterbury, Greenwich and Thames River Cruise Tour

- Unique opportunity to walk through the wartime tunnels at Dover Castle

- Free time to enjoy the rest of the Castle including the Henry II tower

- Lunch in ancient Canterbury - food and drinks included

- Walking tour of historic Greenwich

- Cruise on the Thames from Greenwich back to London

You've heard of the famous white cliffs of Dover?

This is your chance to see them. Following our scenic drive along the old coastal road with a chance to see the historic white cliffs. On a clear day you can even see France. Dover itself is an historic port with a magnificent 12th century castle.

Dover Castle is the oldest fort in England and has been strategic in the country's defence even up to and including WW1 and WW2. Originally strengthened from an Anglo-Saxon fort in 1066 by William the Conqueror with further additions made by Henry II and Henry VIII.

Dover Castle, Canterbury, Greenwich and Thames River Cruise - Full Tour Details