Dover, Leeds Castle, Canterbury & Greenwich River Boat Ride

Description

Explore the beautiful scenery of the English countryside with a day trip to Kent. Known as the Garden of England, Kent is home to historic buildings, stunning beaches and family-friendly attractions. On this guided tour, you’ll visit Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and the Battle of Britain Memorial before heading over to Greenwich and the Thames. If you’re looking for culture, history and nature, then this is the most ideal tour for you!

Leeds Castle
You couldn’t imagine a castle in a more beautiful setting! Surrounded by 500 acres of parkland and a glossy lake, Leeds Castle has evolved from a Norman stronghold to an idyllic country retreat. It used to be an idyllic haven for royals too, serving six of England’s medieval queens as well as Henry VIII, who once lived here with Catherine of Aragon. Explore at your own pace and end your visit with a stroll through the castle gardens.

Canterbury Cathedral
The medieval city of Canterbury is dominated by its breathtaking cathedral — the oldest in England and considered to be the centre of English Christianity. Founded in 600AD, visit the towering cathedral, and follow in the footsteps of pilgrims that flocked to the church after Thomas Becket’s gruesome murder in 1170. The gothic building hides many visual treasures, from the colourful stained-glass windows to the creepy crypt.

From 15 November, Canterbury’s Christmas Markets will be operating. Be sure to explore the historic 600-year-old markets for a range of festive goodies.

White Cliffs
Reaching a height of 350 ft or 110m, the White Cliffs are the striking gateway to England. They stretch for eight miles (13km) and have stood loyally throughout invasions and two world wars! Take in spectacular views of the white cliffs from the Battle of Britain Memorial. Become mesmerised by the beauty of the clear waters that make the English Channel. On a clear day, you may even be able to see France! 

The Battle of Britain Memorial
In Capel-le-Ferne, the Battle of Britain Memorial is dedicated to ‘The Few’ who defended the UK from Nazi Germany’s air force, the Luftwaffe. Opened by the Queen Mother in 1993, the statue is of a seated airman wearing an Irvin jacket to hide his trade, nationality and rank. On your visit to the memorial, you’ll also get the chance to see the Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall which contains the names of all the crew in alphabetical order, again without highlighting their rank or decoration. What’s more, The Wing offers an interactive experience with audio-visual effects, videos and a first-floor ‘cockpit’ area which features a balcony offering spectacular views of the Channel.

Greenwich
You’ll then head south of the River Thames to Greenwich! This World Heritage Site is full to the brim with fascinating maritime history and cutting edge architecture. Home to the Meridian Line, where every place on the Earth is measured in terms of its angle east or west from this line. See the legendary tea clipper ship Cutty Sark and pass the National Maritime Museum. You will also see the fabulous Christopher Wren-designed classical building of the Old Royal Naval College.

River Thames Boat Ride
End your day on a relaxing note and see some top London landmarks during this River Thames boat ride. You’ll float past iconic Tower Bridge and the soaring St Paul’s Cathedral along the route, before disembarking at Embankment Pier.

This tour will finish at Embankment Pier in London at around 6.30pm.