Canterbury: Day Trips and Tours from London

Canterbury is full of historic monuments and religious influence. Founded in the sixth century, this city is best known as the site of the Canterbury Cathedral.

Today, the city is a lively and vibrant place with plenty to see and do. From exploring its ancient streets to admiring the architecture of the cathedral, everyone can find something to do on a day trip to Canterbury from London.

You will find below everything you need to know about Canterbury, one of the best destinations for day excursions from London.

Getting to Canterbury from London

Canterbury is situated in the county of Kent in Southeast England, around 100 kilometers away from London.

• By car: The drive from London to Canterbury via the A2 and M2 takes just over 1.5 hours.
• By train: Direct services from London's St. Pancras International station to Canterbury West take around 1 hour.
• Guided tour to Canterbury from London: Day trips are the most convenient way of visiting Canterbury, as they cover all logistics. The excursions typically include visits to additional locations, so that you can make the most of your day out from the British capital.

Typical itinerary of Canterbury excursions from London

Day trips generally start with a ride by coach or minibus towards Canterbury. Some excursions stop at Leeds Castle on the way, before continuing on and participate in a walking tour of Canterbury.

The cathedral is always a highlight of any Canterbury excursion, and you'll have the opportunity to discover the interior of the Gothic landmark or wander its grounds. Keep in mind that tickets are not included in most tours.

After some free time exploring Canterbury's streets, you may continue on to other destinations, such as the White Cliffs of Dover.

Best day tours to Canterbury from London

Private Day Trips to Canterbury from London

Private excursions to Canterbury offer the greatest degree of flexibility and customization. These small-group day trips typically include a walking tour through historic Canterbury, with the option to visit its UNESCO-listed cathedral. Depending on the itinerary, you may also visit the Leeds Castle and later head to the coast to see the White Cliffs of Dover.

Our pick: Private Tour to Canterbury, White Cliffs & Leeds Castle

• Includes: Roundtrip private transfers, English-speaking guide, customizable itinerary
• Price: £900 for group of 7
• Duration: 10 hours

Day Tours to Canterbury plus Leeds Castle and White Cliffs of Dover from London

This Canterbury day tour covers several of Southeast England's greatest sites. Firstly, you'll visit Leeds Castle, which has been used as a palace, an arsenal and a prison over the centuries.

You'll then travel to Canterbury and step foot in its humbling cathedral for a guided tour. Continuing to the coast, you'll see the White Cliffs of Dover in all their glory.

Our pick: Guided Canterbury, Leeds Castle & White Cliffs Day Trip

• Includes: Roundtrip bus transfers, expert guide, Canterbury Cathedral and Leeds Castle tickets, Canterbury Cathedral guided tour
• Price: £115 for adults, £110 for seniors (65+), £105 for children (3-16)
• Duration: 10 hours

Prices of Canterbury day trips from London

Day tours of Canterbury, the White Cliffs of Dover and Leeds Castle generally cost from £85 to £130.

Private tours to Canterbury range between £200 and £1,050. Those on the lower end of this include a walking tour of Canterbury, while those that are more costly visit additional locations.

What to see and do in Canterbury

Canterbury Cathedral

The soaring ceilings and stained-glass windows inside Canterbury Cathedral create a feeling of reverence. The cathedral has witnessed some of the most momentous events in England's past, including the murder of Thomas Becket in 1170, after a feud with King Henry II.

Today, it remains an important place of worship and pilgrimage. Its intricate carvings and stone gargoyles attract tourists, and historians, as well as Christians from all over.

St. Augustine's Abbey

Alongside Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine’s Abbey is another of the UNESCO World Heritage sites located in Canterbury. The abbey dates back to the sixth century and was used as a monastery for almost 1,000 years.

St. Augustine founded the abbey, and it is dedicated to St. Peter and St. Paul. Several of Kent's Saxon kings are buried beneath its ruins, including King Ethelbert.

Best time to visit Canterbury

By choosing to visit Canterbury during the summer months, you'll enjoy pleasant weather and see the sun beaming through the cathedral's remarkable stained-glass windows.

Another great time to visit is over the Christmas period, when the historic city is decked in lights, and the cathedral hosts several carol-singing services.

Travel tips

• Most tours do not include the entrance fee to Canterbury Cathedral, so carry cash with you for an easy experience on arrival.
• If you're planning your visit to Canterbury outside summer, carry an umbrella with you — just in case it rains.
• When driving to Canterbury, consider using the park and ride service, as parking spaces can fill up fast in the city.