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Kent Culture & history

Our most recommended Kent Culture & history

London: Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs

1. London: Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs

Explore the beautiful cathedral city of Canterbury, the White Cliffs of Dover, and Dover Castle on a day tour from London. Soak in the views of the countryside of Britain while learning about the history from your guide. Make your first stop at the historic cathedral city of Canterbury. There’s plenty to see in Canterbury, including the Cathedral, St. Martin’s Church, and St. Augustine’s Abbey. Learn about the pilgrims who have made their way to Canterbury Cathedral since the Middle Ages, and it remains popular today with visitors from around the world. Travel on to the coast to see the White Cliffs of Dover, one of the country’s most spectacular natural features. An icon of Britain, the White Cliffs have been a sign of hope and freedom for centuries. Take a walk along the clifftops and look out over the busy English Channel. On a clear day, you will be able to see across France. Take a short drive up the road from the White Cliffs of Dover to Dover Castle, one of the largest castles in the country, strategically placed at the shortest crossing point to continental Europe. See the castle that has played a prominent role in Britain’s history and dates back to the Iron Age. A Roman lighthouse and Anglo-Saxon church still stand within the grounds. Admission to the castle is included in the tour and you’ll also have some free time to explore the grounds.

From London: Canterbury & White Cliffs of Dover Tour

2. From London: Canterbury & White Cliffs of Dover Tour

Travel from London and spend a day exploring the highlights of Kent, a region known as the "Garden of England." Enjoy a tour at a relaxed pace that allows lots of time to discover Kent's two most iconic locations: the city of Canterbury and the White Cliffs of Dover. After departing London, make the first stop of the day in the historic city of Canterbury. There, discover one of the oldest churches in England, Canterbury Cathedral, which dates from the 6th century and is where the Roman monk Augustine established Christianity in Britain. While in Canterbury, enjoy plenty of time to visit the cathedral and explore the heart of the city center, the ancient walls, and all the city's key landmarks. A self-guided walking tour is also provided. Next, continue through the charming Kent countryside toward the coast for the next stop in the pretty seaside town of Deal, where the first Roman invasion into Britain landed over 2,000 years ago. There, soak up the seafront atmosphere, explore the quaint high street, and have some lunch. Perhaps even try some fish and chips by the sea. In the afternoon, follow the coast toward the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover, one of Britain's most iconic coastal landmarks. On the way, pass Dover Castle, one of the largest and most important fortresses in Britain. Whilst at the White Cliffs of Dover, there’ll be ample time to walk along the clifftops and admire the spectacular views before returning to London in the evening.

Kent: Leeds Castle Admission - Ultimate Explorer Ticket

3. Kent: Leeds Castle Admission - Ultimate Explorer Ticket

Visit one of the most popular historic attractions in Britain, and take in the grounds of a medieval castle. Set amongst a Kentish parkland, the castle grounds host afternoon teas, falconry displays, adventure golf, and classic gardens. Take in Leeds Castle, an 11th century Norman stronghold, and uncover how the British would have lived year after year in the huge architectural feat. Learn how England’s kings and queens would have used the 500 acres of grounds for their pleasure. Discover how the Anglo-American heiress Lady Baillie restored and transformed the castle into an elegant 20th-century retreat. Today it stands with grounds to explore through the Princess Alexandra Gardens and a yew tree maze designed by Adrian Fisher. Enjoy afternoon tea, and falconry shows.

Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover, and Greenwich

4. Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover, and Greenwich

Embark on a day trip from London to discover some of England's most important attractions. Explore Leeds Castle, see the historic Canterbury Cathedral, stop at the Battle of Britain Memorial, and marvel at the White Cliffs of Dover. Described as 'the loveliest castle in the world' by Lord Conway, Leeds Castle sits on 500 acres of landscaped parkland across two idyllic islands, deep in the heart of the magnificent Kent countryside. Arrive early to visit Leeds Castle, where Henry VIII retreated to escape the plague that was raging in London during his reign. Upon arrival at Leeds Castle, you will be greeted by your guide. Discover the history behind this magical castle and experience life how Henry VIII would have. Next up, embark on a visit to Canterbury Cathedral, the scene of Archbishop Thomas Becket’s gruesome murder in 1170. Learn the intriguing history behind this captivating masterpiece of medieval architecture. Marvel at the cathedral’s spectacular stained glass windows, many of which have survived from the late 12th and early 13th centuries. Then, tantalize your taste buds with a traditional two-course meal. Admire the famous White Cliffs of Dover as you drive past Then, head to Greenwich to see the Old Royal Naval College, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, as well as the Royal Observatory and the world-famous Cutty Sark, a fascinating 19th-century clipper ship. Stop at the Battle of Britain Memorial Get a fresh perspective on London’s attractions with a boat ride on the River Thames, from Greenwich to Embankment Pier. You'll pass Tower Bridge and stunning St. Paul’s Cathedral along the way.

Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover, and Greenwich

5. Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover, and Greenwich

Depart from London in the morning on a drive to Leeds Castle, the former royal residence of 6 of England's medieval queens. The palace was transformed by Henry VIII, and became a retreat for the rich and powerful. Begin with a private viewing prior to the castle opening to the public. Explore the chapel, galleries, courtyards, and the banqueting hall. Afterwards, you’ll see the grounds that are home to wildfowl, black swans, and birds in the aviary. Next on your full-day tour is a scenic drive along the old coastal road to the famous white cliffs of Dover. Admire the historic port and its magnificent 12th-century castle. On a clear day there are views of France across the English Channel. Experience the ancient city of Canterbury and its greatest treasure, the Canterbury Cathedral, probably best known as the site of the brutal murder of Thomas Becket in 1170. Have free time to explore Canterbury on your own. Take a walking tour through Greenwich, which boasts exquisite parks and gardens. See the famous Cutty Sark which was the fastest sailing ship of its time. As evening approaches, you’ll enjoy an exclusive Thames River cruise. Cruise back to the center of London, sailing past historic sites, including the Tower of London, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.

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What people are saying about Kent

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 502 reviews

Fantastic experience on this tour! We were able to check out Canterbury (2 hours) and the Cliffs of Dover (~1 hour), along with a stop in the small seaside town of Deal for lunch (1 hour). Given the short daylight hours at the moment and the extra effort that would have been involved planning the trip on my own, I would consider the tour to be a great value. Our guide, Kevin, provided a lot of interesting facts and background information throughout the tour.

Our tours guide was amazing!!! Due to the winds we could not do Dover Castle so he took us to Leeds Castle and I believe the castle and it’s grounds had so much to offer and we were given sufficient time on this first stop, than off we went to the white cliffs which are beautiful, from there we could see Dover Castle but the winds were pretty strong, our last stop was Canterbury Cathedral and city which both were beautiful!!!

Despite the rain, we had a marvellous time. Len (our driver cum tour guide) was humourous, knowledgeable and so personable. He fed us stories at key points of the trip and made everyone feel welcome. As the tour points, these were great. Had sufficient time at each spot and thoroughly recommend fish and chips at Deal!

We loved it! Our tour guide and driver were great and on time. Our itinerary in order was Dover Castle, White Cliffs, and Canterbury. I wish we had a bit more time at Canterbury—it seems rushed a bit at the end. Overall, it was a positive experience and I’d book again with Get Your Guide.

We had so much fun going out to Leeds and Canterbury (with a pit stop in Dover). Pedro (our guide) was fantastically informative, funny, and charismatic - making sure everyone felt welcome and informed. Lucien (our driver) was so excellent in getting us there/back safely and efficiently.