How to Plan Your Historic Canterbury Private Day Tour from London

If you’re visiting London and want to explore one of England’s most historic cities, a private day trip to Canterbury is a fantastic option. This guided tour offers the freedom to customize your itinerary to fit your interests, with the added convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private air-conditioned vehicle. Here’s what you need to know to plan your Historic Canterbury Private Day Tour from London.

Overview

Canterbury is a UNESCO-listed city that’s been shaped by centuries of history. On this private tour, you’ll get up close with some of its most iconic landmarks, including Canterbury Cathedral (entry own expense). You’ll also have the flexibility to explore other areas that interest you, with the help of a knowledgeable guide. Here’s what’s included in the tour:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Guided walk outside
• All fees and taxes
• Hotel pick-up
• Tickets to Canterbury Cathedral and tour inside
• Meals and beverages not included

Meeting and Pickup

The tour departs from Bromley South Station, which is located about 12 miles from central London. You’ll need to make your own way to the station, but the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off once you arrive in Canterbury. The meeting point for the tour is at Station Approach, Bromley BR1 1LX, UK. You’ll be picked up and dropped off at the same location.

Your Itinerary

One of the best things about this private tour is that you have the freedom to tailor it to your own interests. If you’re interested in history, you’ll be thrilled with the tour’s focus on Canterbury’s UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as its other historic landmarks. If you’d rather indulge in some local food and drink, your guide can take you to some of the city’s best hidden gems.

Whichever direction you choose, your tour guide will be happy to help you create an itinerary that works best for you. Here are just a few highlights that you might want to include in your itinerary:

Canterbury Cathedral

This stunning cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Canterbury, and for good reason. With its historical significance and beautiful architecture, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The entry fee to the cathedral is not included in the tour price, but your guide can help you purchase tickets once you arrive.

St. Augustine’s Abbey

Founded in the early 7th century, St. Augustine’s Abbey was once a thriving monastery that played an important role in the spread of Christianity in England. Today, the ruins of the abbey offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.

The Canterbury Tales

This interactive museum brings the famous tales of Chaucer to life with a series of exhibits and displays. It’s a great option if you want to learn more about medieval literature and culture.

Booking Your Tour

To book your tour, simply visit the Viator website and choose the date and time that works best for you. You’ll need to make your own way to Bromley South Station to meet your guide, but once you arrive in Canterbury, all transportation is taken care of. With the flexibility to customize your itinerary and the convenience of a private vehicle, this tour is a fantastic way to explore one of England’s most historic cities.

An Insider’s Guide to Canterbury: Discovering Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Canterbury, a historic city located just an hour away from London, is a perfect day-trip destination for those interested in medieval architecture, ancient history and the art of English storytelling. While well-known tourist attractions such as Canterbury Cathedral and St. Augustine’s Abbey are undoubtedly must-sees, there are several other hidden gems that only locals know about. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best hidden spots, unique experiences, local history, cultural traditions, and cuisine that you must try during your visit to Canterbury.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While Canterbury Cathedral is an architectural marvel, there are many other beautiful and historic sites that are less crowded and equally fascinating. One such site is the Greyfriars Chapel and Franciscan Gardens, a small yet charming chapel that dates back to the 13th century. The gardens surrounding the chapel are ideal for a quiet stroll amidst a serene environment. Another hidden gem is the Westgate Gardens, a beautiful park that overlooks the River Stour and has plenty of walkways and benches to sit and relax.

For a unique experience, visit the Marlowe Theatre, which hosts a variety of performances from dance to comedy. If you are interested in art, stop by the Sidney Cooper Gallery, which is home to a collection of contemporary art pieces. Finally, if you’re interested in history, head over to the Canterbury Roman Museum, which exhibits restored Roman townhouse floors and artefacts, providing a glimpse into the city’s Roman past.

Dining Spots: Discover Canterbury’s Food Culture

Canterbury has a rich culinary heritage and is known for its seafood delicacies such as the local catch of Dover sole. One must-try dish is the Canterbury Pudding, a dessert made from local bread, cream, and sugar. For a unique culinary experience, visit The Goods Shed, an award-winning farmer’s market that sells fresh produce, meats, and dairy products sourced directly from farmers.

Another dining option is Deeson’s British restaurant, which serves locally-sourced and seasonal cuisine. For a quintessential English afternoon tea experience, visit Tiny Tim’s Tearoom, which offers guests an impressive selection of tea and delicious light bites.

Cultural Experiences: Delve into Canterbury’s Art and Traditions

While Canterbury is famous for its medieval architecture and Christian heritage, it also has an active contemporary arts scene. One cultural attraction you should visit is the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, a remarkable museum and art gallery that showcases an array of art and artefacts. The Canterbury Festival, held annually in October, is another unique cultural experience that one should not miss. The festival features a diverse range of performances, including music, dance, comedy, and theatre.

Local History: Stories that Will Captivate You

One lesser-known story of Canterbury is that of Christopher Marlowe, a playwright born in the city; he is known as a contemporary of Shakespeare but was not as celebrated in his time. His contribution to British Literature is immense, and you can learn more about him at the Marlowe Theatre or take Christopher Marlowe walking tours. Another lesser-known story is that of the ‘Canterbury Women,’ who played an instrumental role in the women’s suffrage movement; you can learn more about their struggles and legacy at the Canterbury Heritage Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You

To add an adventurous aspect to your Canterbury trip, visit the Canterbury Escape Room, which challenges you to solve a series of puzzles to escape a room. For a unique cathedral experience, book an evening tour of the Canterbury Cathedral, where you can discover the mysteries of the grounds with a private guide by lamplight. Finally, if you want to experience a traditional English town appeal, head over to the Canterbury Farmers Market, held every Wednesday and Friday, to browse quirky items, including antique treasures, handicrafts, and local culinary delights.

In Conclusion, Although it is easy to find conventional tourist activities in Canterbury, this insider’s guide provides you with a collection of activities that capture the essence of Canterbury and provide you with a unique experience. It’s time to step off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems of Canterbury.