Full-Day tour of Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & White Cliffs of Dover

Once you arrive at the meeting point, you will board your luxury coach along with your tour guide and head to the beautiful Leeds Castle, set on a sprawling estate of grassland with it’s own lake.

Your guide will regale you with the history of the castle during your private visit and tell you stories from a time when the castle was a haven for royals away from the bustle of London. You can even stop by for a glass of mead at the newly renovated Gatehouse!

You will then depart for the medieval city of Canterbury, the setting of many works of literature but most famous for once being the centre of English Christianity. Step into the lofty cathedral and marvel at the architecture of the historic structure as the light filters in through the many colorful stained glass windows.

The cliffs of Dover have held of many an invasion and have withstood them all, looking no worse for the wear. Admire the breathtaking view from this stretch of the coast before a quick stop at Dover Castle, always fun for movie buffs since it was once the replacement for the Tower of London in a major Hollywood feature film. After Dover, you will make your way to Greenwich, home to the Old Royal Naval College designed by Christopher Wren and many fascinating stories besides.

Full-Day tour of Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & White Cliffs of Dover

Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and the iconic White Cliffs of Dover on this full-day guided sightseeing tour that includes round-trip transportation from central London. The tour covers approximately 100 miles, with stops at key landmarks such as Leeds Castle, a medieval fortress built in 1119; Canterbury Cathedral, one of England's oldest and most important religious sites established in 597 AD; Dover Castle, a formidable castle dating back to the 12th century; and the White Cliffs of Dover, a natural wonder stretching over 10 miles along the English Channel coastline. The tour is conducted by professional guides who speak multiple languages including English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian, ensuring that every visitor can enjoy the historical significance and architectural beauty of each site. With a duration of approximately 9 hours, this tour offers ample time to explore these landmarks in depth, providing an immersive experience that highlights their unique contributions to England's cultural heritage.

Explore Leeds Castle: A Medieval Fortress

Your tour stops at Leeds Castle where guests can immerse themselves in the rich history of one of England’s most beautiful castles. Built by invitation from King Henry II in 1119, it has served as a royal palace for six English queens and is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and picturesque lake setting. Spanning over 500 acres, Leeds Castle features a main keep that stands at nearly 43 feet tall and includes numerous attractions such as the Great Hall, St. Sepulchre Gatehouse, and the Swaney Tower. Visitors spend about two hours exploring these areas, learning about the castle’s significant historical events like its role during World War II when it served as a hospital for wounded soldiers. Unlike other castles that primarily focus on military history, Leeds Castle offers unique insights into royal life through exhibits dedicated to Queen Mary and Elizabeth I. This makes Leeds Castle not only a must-see for history enthusiasts but also a place of great cultural importance.

Discover Canterbury Cathedral: England's Oldest Cathedral

Your tour continues at Canterbury Cathedral, where guests can marvel at one of the oldest cathedrals in England, established in 597 AD. This UNESCO World Heritage site covers over 10 acres and is renowned for its Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows, including the famous East Window which dates back to 1330. Visitors spend about an hour exploring this sacred space, learning about significant historical events such as the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170 and the pilgrims' journey immortalized by Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales." Unlike other cathedrals that focus more on their religious functions, Canterbury Cathedral offers a unique blend of spiritual significance and cultural heritage. It is a place where visitors can connect with England’s rich history while being in awe of its architectural splendor.

Marvel at Dover Castle: A Fortress by the Sea

Your tour concludes at Dover Castle, where guests can explore one of England's most formidable castles built in 1180. Spanning over 50 acres and standing tall with walls reaching up to 64 feet high, this medieval fortress offers a unique glimpse into England’s military history through its extensive underground tunnels dating back to World War II. Visitors spend about an hour and a half exploring these areas, learning about significant historical events such as the castle's role during the Napoleonic Wars and its strategic importance in defending against invasion threats. Unlike other castles that primarily focus on their medieval origins, Dover Castle provides a comprehensive look at how fortifications evolved over centuries to meet new challenges. This makes it not only an essential stop for history buffs but also a place of great cultural significance.

Admire the White Cliffs of Dover: A Natural Wonder

Your tour includes a stop at the stunning White Cliffs of Dover, where guests can admire one of England’s most recognizable natural landmarks stretching over 10 miles along the English Channel coastline. These chalk cliffs rise up to 350 feet above sea level and have played a crucial role in British history as they were part of the Battle of Britain during World War II. Visitors spend about an hour exploring this area, learning about significant historical events such as their importance as a symbol of resilience and freedom for the UK. Unlike other coastal attractions that focus on recreational activities, the White Cliffs of Dover offer a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Tour Highlights

• Hop aboard a superior air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi
• Enjoy a private visit to Leeds castle where your guide will walk you through the day-to-day lives of the Tudors
• Admire the Gothic architecture and stained glass windows of the oldest cathedral in England, Canterbury Cathedral
• Stop at the coast to admire the stunning white cliffs of Dover
• Head south to Greenwich, a World Heritage site with a rich maritime history
• Audio guide available in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian
• Experience guided tours conducted by professional historians and guides
• Convenience including round-trip transportation from central London

Perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and cultural explorers, this full-day tour provides a comprehensive look at some of England's most significant landmarks. The itinerary allows you to explore Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and the White Cliffs of Dover in depth, giving you an unparalleled understanding of their historical significance while enjoying the beauty of these iconic sites.