This one week road trip from London runs in a loop and takes you through some of England’s most iconic landmarks and prettiest little villages.

You will spend a few days exploring the highlights of the stunning Cotswolds region, walk through the historic cities of Bath and Oxford, see the ancient site of Stonehenge and finish off the road trip with a visit to the incredible Salisbury Cathedral.

This will be an unforgettable week of discovering England’s most fascinating history while passing through some of the country’s most breath-taking landscapes.

The gorgeous Manor House in Castle Combe

This road trip from London can be done at any time of the year, we did it in November and we had a lovely time. Yes, it was a little chilly but nothing that a roaring fire inside of a medieval pub can’t fix! The spring and summer months will be much busier as the warmer weather naturally attracts more tourists.

No matter when you choose to go, this driving route is truly beautiful in every season. We had such an incredible time on this road trip and feel that it deserves a spot on everyone’s UK bucket list!

Road Trip From London Overview

• Oxford
• Stratford-upon-Avon
• Stow-on-the-Wold
• Lower Slaughter
• Bourton-on-the-Water
• Bibury
• Castle Combe
• Bath
• Stonehenge
• Salisbury

Cute cottages in the charming village of Bibury

Recommended Itinerary

Day One – Depart London in the morning and drive to Oxford. Spend the rest of the day seeing the highlights of Oxford.

Night One – Oxford

Day Two – Depart Oxford and drive to Shakespeare’s birth town, Stratford-upon-Avon. Spend the rest of the day exploring the town.

Night Two – Stratford-upon-Avon

Day Three – Depart Stratford-upon-Avon in the morning and drive to the first Cotswolds village, Stow-on-the-Wold. Spend some time checking out the town before continuing to Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water.

Night Three – Bourton-on-the-Water

Day Four – Start the day with a drive to the village of Bibury to see the famous Arlington Row and stop for tea at the lovely Swan Hotel. Continue your Cotswolds road trip to the gorgeous little village of Castle Combe. Spend the afternoon in the village before driving to Bath.

Exploring the city of Bath

Night Four – Bath

Day Five – Spend the full day seeing the highlights of Bath.

Night Five – Bath

Day Six – Depart Bath in the morning and make your way to Stonehenge, spend a few hours at the stones before continuing to Salisbury. See the Salisbury Cathedral and other attractions in the afternoon.

Night Six – Salisbury

Day Seven – Drive back to London

Total Driving Time / Distance Covered

7.5 – 8 hours / 323 miles – Give or take depending on traffic and chosen driving route

Road Trip From London Highlights

• Discover the history and amazing architecture in the famous university city of Oxford
• Visit the medieval village of Stratford-upon-Avon, known as Shakespeare’s birthplace
• Transport to another era as you wander through the fairy-tale Cotswolds villages
• See the incredible Roman Baths in the beautiful city of Bath
• Marvel at the mysterious ancient stone circle at Stonehenge
• Take a walk through the majestic Salisbury Cathedral

Taking in the wonder of Stonehenge

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The Ultimate One Week Road Trip From London

Car Rental In London

The first thing you should do before departing on this road trip from London is arrange your car rental. To book a car, we recommend using this comparison tool to easily search between all providers. We use this website for pretty much all car rentals in every country we visit as they have a large selection of providers with reasonable prices and no booking fees.

Pick up your car first thing in the morning and then begin the 1:15 hr drive from London to Oxford.

Oxford

The city of Oxford is packed full of amazing history and plenty of beautiful architecture. It’s home to the oldest university in the English speaking world, the University of Oxford which dates back to the 12th century. Oxford is often referred to as “the city of dreaming spires” because of the university’s many towers that dominate the city’s skyline.

Besides strolling along the high street of the medieval town centre and browsing a few of the shops along the way, there are a few things to do in Oxford that you shouldn’t miss on your visit!

Oxford University

Highlights of Oxford

University of Oxford – Take a 2-hr guided walking tour to see the famous sites of Oxford University. An experienced guide will take you through the university’s complex to see one of the Harry Potter filming sites, the Bodleian Library and the Divinity School. Find tour prices and availability.

Radcliffe Camera – No visit to Oxford is complete without seeing this iconic circular building. What was originally built as a library in the 18th century is now one of the most photographed buildings in all of Oxford. You are only permitted to enter the Radcliffe Camera on a guided tour, but it’s worth checking out even if you just admire from the outside.

Oxford Castle & Prison – Discover the rich and fascinating history of Oxford Castle & Prison on a guided tour lead by a costumed guide. The tour includes: climbing the oldest tower in Oxford to see panoramic views from the top, descending into the 900+ year old crypt, hearing the many stories of the crazy events that unfolded over the centuries from an informative guide and so much more! Find tour prices and availability.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace – A 20 minute drive from Oxford will take you to this gorgeous countryside manor surrounded by stunning gardens and beautiful landscapes. Blenheim Palace is known as the birthplace of Winston Churchill. It’s conveniently located along the drive from Oxford to Stratford-upon-Avon, making it easy to stop in for a visit.

Medieval Pubs – Oxford has many historic pubs to check out around the town centre. We had lunch at the oldest pub in Oxford, The Bear Inn. The interior is very small and cosy but it’s full of medieval charm and definitely worth stopping at for lunch or drinks. Here are some more old pubs to check out: Turf Tavern, The Eagle and Child, The Trout Inn.

Where to stay in Oxford

Bear and Ragged Staff – If you’re hoping to stay somewhere with some character and history, you can’t go wrong here. Located just outside of the city, this charming old property offers free parking and delicious home-made food. There’s a cosy bar with a big fireplace which is perfect if you’re visiting during the cold months.

Malmaison Oxford – Once a Victorian prison and now a gorgeous boutique hotel in the heart of Oxford. This highly rated, unique property features tastefully decorated rooms, beautiful architecture, 2 bars and breakfast included. Parking is available on site at an extra cost.

Old Parsonage Hotel – A stunning building dating back to 1660, only a 5 minute walk from Oxford city centre. This lovely hotel features modern rooms in an old setting, free parking, a restaurant & bar and an excellent breakfast (which costs extra).

►Browse more accommodation options in Oxford◄

Exploring Oxford’s High Street

The Bear Inn, Oxford

Radcliffe Camera, Oxford

Stratford-upon-Avon

Take a step back in time to the 16th century when Shakespeare himself once roamed these very streets. Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming English market town full of well-preserved Tudor style architecture located along the banks of the Avon River.

It’s most commonly known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, so naturally you can expect to find all things dedicated to the famous playwright around the town.

Highlights of Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare’s Birthplace – It wouldn’t be a trip to Stratford without a visit inside Shakespeare’s birth home, after all it is the most popular attraction in the town! This iconic half-timbered 16th century building has been preserved incredibly well both inside and out.

The home has been set up with furniture consistent to the time period as well as displays which tell the story of Shakespeare’s childhood and family life in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage – A 20 minute walk from the town centre of Stratford is the adorable 600 year old thatched cottage that once belonged to Shakespeare’s wife. It features original furniture, timber framing that dates to the 15th century and is surrounded by the prettiest gardens.

Royal Shakespeare Theatre – Catch one of Shakespeare’s plays live at the riverside Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The layout of the theatre is consistent to Shakespeare’s time, providing an authentic play watching experience.

In addition to showing Shakespeare’s most famous plays, there is also a rooftop restaurant where you can dine with beautiful views over the Avon River. Click here to see upcoming plays and events.

Stratford Butterfly Farm – The UK’s largest tropical butterfly farm is a fun way to break up all of the Shakespeare attractions, especially for families travelling with children.

A few minutes walk from the town centre will take you to see hundreds of the world’s most beautiful butterflies, exotic birds, and various insects.

Tickets to Shakespeare’s family homes: If you plan to visit more than one of the homes associated with Shakespeare’s family, check out this ticket which gives you access to 5 different locations including his birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s cottage.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

Where to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon

Mercure Stratford Upon Avon Shakespeare Hotel – A beautiful 17th century inn featuring oak beamed ceilings and comfortable rooms. It’s centrally located within walking distance to all attractions around Stratford. Breakfast is included and parking is available on site at an extra cost.

Macdonald Alveston Manor Hotel – This lovely timber-framed Tudor style manor is only a 5 minute walk from the town centre of Stratford. It has a spa and gym, an award winning restaurant and rooms featuring Tudor style décor.

The Manor Hotel is a great choice if you’re looking for a few extra comforts during your stay in Stratford. Breakfast is included and parking is also available at an extra cost.

The White Swan Hotel – Located in a well preserved historic building, this highly-rated property is a perfect blend of medieval and modern furnishings. It’s a 10 minute walk from the town centre and includes breakfast. Parking is not available on site but there are many options nearby.

►Browse more accommodation options in Stratford-upon-Avon◄

Cotswolds Villages

The Cotswolds ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ is one of the most popular places to visit in England, especially because getting from London to the Cotswolds is an easy drive under 2 hours.

With a concentration of enchanting fairy-tale villages and rolling green hills, driving in the Cotswolds is truly a magical experience. Taking a day tour from London to the Cotswolds is a popular way to visit but to truly take in the beauty of this region, it’s definitely worth spending a bit longer!

The sleepy little villages and slower pace of life in the countryside is certainly a welcome contrast to the bustling streets of London. It’s a place to simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the traditional English villages that appear to be frozen in time.

Take a walk through the countryside, sip a pint in a medieval pub next to a roaring fire, enjoy a high tea in a historic tea room; these are some of the best activities in the Cotswolds!

Strolling through the pretty streets of Castle Combe

Stow-on-the-Wold

Only a short 30 minute drive from Stratford-upon-Avon, this quintessential English market town is the perfect place to start off your tour through the Cotswolds.

Day 3 on the road trip from London is all about exploring the three lovely Cotswolds villages of: Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water. These towns are within very close proximity to one another, making it easy to see them all in one day!

Take some time to browse the cute shops around Stow-on-the-Wold, check out the market square to see the ancient town cross, and pop it to one of the many little tea rooms for some tea and scones.

Before you carry on, make sure to visit the beautiful St. Edward’s Church which is famous for it’s doorway framed by trees.

The tree-framed door of St Edward’s Church

Lower Slaughter

Despite its harsh name, Lower Slaughter certainly makes the list of one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds. It’s nestled around the River Eye with picturesque foot bridges and gorgeous little stone cottages.

Lower Slaughter is one of the lesser visited towns compared to the likes of other, more popular Cotswolds villages but that doesn’t make it any less worthy of your time!

Take a stroll along “Copse Hill Road”, which was once named Britain’s most romantic street. It’s not hard to see why as the scenery is so pretty, it’s as though you’ve stepped into a painting.

Along this walk is where you’ll come across the town’s most popular attraction, the Old Mill. Step inside the Old Mill’s museum to learn about it’s history over the centuries and refuel with a bite to eat and some tea in the museum’s cafe.

The picturesque Old Mill, Lower Slaughter

Bourton-on-the-Water

One of the bigger and more popular Cotswolds towns, Bourton-on-the-Water has been named ‘the Venice of the Cotswolds’ because of the many little footbridges that cross over the River Windrush that runs through the town.

One of the best things to in Bourton-on-the-Water is simply taking a scenic stroll along the river, finding perfect photo opportunities as you go. The town is full of cute cafes, tea houses, old pubs and lovely little shops, it’s easy to lose track of time as you wander through the streets.

Check out the Model Village which is a miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water built in traditional Cotswolds stone at 1/9th scale of the actual town! This is a fun attraction that doesn’t take too long to get through and something that appeals to all ages.

Another cool thing to see in Bourton-on-the-Water is the Cotswolds Motoring Museum which is home to a big collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, caravans and much more! A must visit for any motor enthusiast.

Where to stay in Bourton-on-the-Water

The Lamb Inn – After a full day of exploring the Cotswolds, you’ll need to find a comfortable place to rest your head and The Lamb Inn makes a great choice.

Located only a short drive from Bourton-on-the-Water, this beautiful countryside inn has everything you could ask for. It features free parking, spacious rooms, breakfast included and a nice restaurant serving delicious food!

►Browse more accommodation options in Bourton-on-the-Water◄

The beautiful Cotswolds town of Bourton-on-the-Water

Bibury

It’s been called one of the most beautiful villages in England, Bibury is no stranger to a crowd. Arlington Row is said to be one of the most photographed scenes in all of England.

This perfect little row of stone houses dates back to the 14th century and is truly like a scene taken straight from a fairy-tale. The buildings were originally used to store wool but were later converted to weaver’s cottages in the 17th century.

Nowadays the buildings that you see are actually inhabited by people, which is important to remember when you’re strolling along snapping photos.

Besides admiring this lovely row of houses, the charming ivy-covered Swan Hotel next to the River Coln makes an excellent place to stop in for a tea break. The historic building was once an 18th century coaching inn and has since been turned into a hotel with a nice restaurant, bar and café.

Arlington Row, Bibury

The Swan Hotel, Bibury

Castle Combe

Located in the south end of the Cotswolds, Castle Combe is a picturesque little village with traditional honey-coloured stone cottages and a bubbling stream flowing through. This is another village that’s been heavily photographed and it’s not hard to see why.

I really felt like I was walking through the set of a movie, it’s just that perfect (also because it has actually been featured in several movies/TV series!) Castle Combe is quite literally frozen in time as there have been no new buildings constructed in the town since the 17th century.

If you visit Castle Combe during the summer, you will definitely see some tour groups and crowds filling the little streets. But if you go during the winter like I did, you might just be lucky enough to get this fairy-tale village to yourself!

Besides, visiting the Cotswolds at Christmas time only adds to the magic of this place! 

In love with the quaint cottages of Castle Combe!

Besides strolling through the village taking photos around each corner, there are a few things to do here that you shouldn’t miss. Grab a classic English pub lunch at the White Hart or Castle Inn, both historic pubs in the town centre serving tasty food and ales.

Take a walk over to the 14th century Manor House, which is now a luxury hotel with a golf course and a Michelin star restaurant. You can pop inside for afternoon tea or just admire the gorgeous building from the outside and carry on.

Before you drive off to Bath, make sure to walk down the hill from the market square until you reach the bridge. This is the perfect angle to capture the cottages, river and surrounding woodland, and even better if you can get this magical scene all to yourself!

The fairy-tale village of Castle Combe

Bath

An easy 30 minute drive from Castle Combe will bring you to the charming city of Bath. Rich in history that goes all the way back to the Roman times, there are so many awesome things to see and do in Bath that you could easily spend a few days there and not be bored.

This road trip from London itinerary includes one full day in Bath, so I will be recommending the absolute highlights that cannot be missed!

In addition to the incredible Roman monuments that Bath is famous for, it’s also known for it’s Georgian architecture featuring many impressive 18th century structures.

Some of the highlights that you will see on your visit are the Pulteney Bridge, the Royal Crescent and Bath Abbey, but there are many other pretty buildings to be discovered as you explore the town.

Pulteney Bridge, Bath

Highlights of Bath

Roman Baths – The most famous attraction that draws people to Bath is the ancient Roman Baths. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a history that goes back almost 2,000 years. What originally started off as a Roman Temple eventually turned into a public bath house that became extremely popular for people visiting from all over the UK and Europe.

The series of pools and baths have been incredibly well maintained and preserved and are open to the public for viewing purposes only. After you finish your tour through the bathing rooms, you’ll end up at the museum which tells the story of the baths over the centuries and has many fascinating Roman artefacts on display.

When starting your full day of sightseeing in Bath, it’s worth visiting the Roman Baths first thing in the morning to avoid standing in long queues and crowds. Throughout the day, it gets very busy with tour groups visiting on a day trip from London especially during high season.

Roman Baths Opening Hours  – 9:30am – 5pm

Roman Bath Tickets – The ticket price varies throughout the year depending on the season. Tickets do tend to sell out so I would recommend buying them online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Roman Baths

Bath Abbey – Tick off yet another UNESCO Heritage listed site in Bath when you visit the beautiful 1,000 year old Bath Abbey which is conveniently located right next door to the Roman Baths.

Although the history of this church goes back so far, it has seen many changes and renovations to its appearance over the years. Entrance to the church is free but if you wish to climb the tower to get a view over the town, it costs £8.

Pulteney Bridge – A visit to Bath is not complete without a stroll across the iconic Pulteney Bridge. This 18th century bridge is one of the four bridges left in the world with shops lining each side.

The others that you may have heard of include Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Rialto Bridge in Venice, and Krämerbrücke in Germany.

Take a look through the little shops on the bridge and walk along both sides of the Avon River to find the perfect angle to photograph the bridge from.

Thermae Bath Spa – Just because you weren’t able to bathe in the ancient Roman Baths, doesn’t mean you’re out of luck! The Thermae Bath Spa is a modern hot spring spa fed by mineral waters from the original Bath springs.

You have the option to relax in their indoor baths or in the open air rooftop bath that overlooks the city with epic panoramic views. This is the perfect way to end the day and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Find out more information about visiting the Thermae Bath Spa here.

Sally Lunn’s Tea House – Stop in for a snack and some tea at the famous Sally Lunn’s Tea House. This is one of the oldest buildings in Bath and it’s also where the iconic “Bath Bun” was first created in the 15th century.

Bath is full of quintessential English tea rooms but if you’re looking for some history to go along with your tea, this is the place to go!

If you’re a customer of Sally Lunn’s, this also gives you access to the in-house museum located below the tea house. You’ll be able to walk through the medieval kitchen and learn stories of the buildings history.

Royal Crescent, Bath

Royal Crescent – Another one of Bath’s most iconic buildings is the 18th century crescent shaped row of town homes. It’s located on a hill about 15 minutes walk from the town centre.

One of the town homes has been decorated with antique furnishings and opened up to the public as a museum. Head inside the museum for a glimpse into upper class life in 18th century Bath. Find more info here.

Bath Walking Tour – Taking a guided tour of Bath’s highlights is a great idea to help you gain a deeper insight into the town’s fascinating history. A tour guide will lead you through the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, Bath Circus and the Crescent.

This tour includes skip-the-line tickets to the Roman Baths as well as a guided tour through the bath house. Click here to find tickets and availability.

Where to stay in Bath

This road trip from London itinerary recommends staying 2 nights in Bath so you’ll want to find a nice place with a good breakfast!

Bailbrook Lodge – We stayed at this charming old manor 5 minutes from Bath city centre and had a great stay. The breakfast was delicious and included complimentary champagne!

Free parking is available on site and we chose to leave the car parked there and catch the bus into Bath which was very easy to do from just outside of the inn. We can definitely recommend this place!

Brooks Guesthouse – If you’re hoping to stay somewhere a bit more central and closer to the action then the Brooks Guesthouse is a good option. It’s a 10 minute walk to the town centre of Bath making all of the main attractions easily accessible.

Parking spaces are available near the guest house at an extra cost. The rooms are nicely decorated and all reviews say positive things about the breakfast which is included in your stay.

The Bath Priory – Seeking some luxury during your stay in Bath? This gorgeous country manor is set 3km from Bath city centre, surrounded by lush greenery and gardens. The hotel features a beautiful indoor pool, sauna and a spa offering beauty treatments.

The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated. The hotel’s restaurant serves high quality French cuisine and seasonal dishes. Free parking is available on site. A great option if you’re seeking some comfort and relaxation.

►Browse more accommodation options in Bath◄

Beautiful buildings of Bath

Stonehenge

The prehistoric ruins of Stonehenge are arguably one of the most visited attractions in the UK. With millions of tourists visiting each year, there is a reason why Stonehenge is worthy of a stop on this road trip itinerary!

The most fascinating thing about this circle of stones is their mysterious nature. They’ve been estimated to be around 5,000 years old but no one actually knows how or why they were put there and arranged in a circle.

Your ticket to the stones includes the shuttle that takes you there from the visitor centre and a visit to the museum. The museum has hundreds of prehistoric exhibits on display with history and facts from the time Stonehenge was constructed. You should allow for up to 2 hours to spend at the stones and museum.

Is Stonehenge worth visiting? Stonehenge is very touristy and you can expect to see some crowds but this shouldn’t stop you from seeing such an incredible wonder of the world. Despite the crowds, Stonehenge is such a unique and important part of British history and it’s absolutely worth a visit on this road trip from London!

Tickets – £21.10 adult, £12.70 child

Buy your ticket to Stonehenge online in advance

Salisbury

The final stop on this road trip from London will bring you to yet another historic gem. Salisbury is the closest city to Stonehenge, being a convenient 20 minute drive to the south.

The city is steeped in fascinating history and well-known for the incredible 13th century Gothic Cathedral which happens to have the UK’s tallest spire!

Salisbury Cathedral is truly a work of art, both inside and out. Inside of the Cathedral, you will be able to see some original Saxon documents including one of the four original Magna Carta’s.

Highlights of Salisbury

Salisbury Cathedral – The city’s main attraction and one of the most visited churches in England is the spectacular Salisbury Cathedral. The Cathedral was built in traditional English Gothic style and completed in the year 1258.

Some of its best features include beautiful stained glass windows, the largest cloister in England dating from the 13th century, the oldest working clock in the world and of course the amazing spire!

One of the highlights of visiting Salisbury Cathedral is taking a tour of the tower. If you feel like braving the 332 steps up a winding medieval staircase, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views over Salisbury and surrounding countryside. See the official website for more info on tower tour pricing and booking.

It goes without saying that the other highlight is seeing the Magna Carta which is displayed in the Cathedral’s Chapter House. This ancient document dates back to the year 1215 and signifies the foundation of constitutional law in Britain.

The copy that you can see in Salisbury Cathedral is the best preserved out of the four remaining copies in the world.

Salisbury Cathedral

Feeling small next to this magnificent Cathedral

Salisbury Museum – A fascinating museum full of ancient artefacts that tell the story of the region’s vast history from prehistoric times to present day. The museum is inside “The King’s House” which is a listed building dating to the 13th century, it first opened it’s doors in 1860.

Some of the objects on display are over 2,700 years old and range from weapons to jewellery and even a 4,000 year old skeleton from the Bronze Age who was found with gold and other interesting items inside his grave.

You can find the Salisbury Museum near the Cathedral Close, facing the western side of the Cathedral. See the official website for more info about planning your visit.

Old Sarum – Salisbury once started as an Iron Age settlement located 2 miles north of the current city. The history of this site goes back to the year 400 BC and you’ll be able to see the town’s ramparts, ruins from the Cathedral and the site where the castle once stood.

In the year 1220, the entire town moved to its present day location leaving Old Sarum abandoned and the Cathedral demolished once the new one was built in Salisbury.

As you walk through the peaceful countryside setting, it’s hard to imagine that a busy medieval village once existed there. Visiting this site is definitely a must during your time in Salisbury, not only is it rich in history but the countryside views also make it worth while.

Find more info about getting tickets and visiting Old Sarum here.

Medieval Pubs – Salisbury has no shortage of quirky old English pubs, full of character and old world charm. Low ceilings, oak beams, open fires and creaky floorboards, there’s really nothing like a good old medieval pub to transport you back in time!

We stopped for lunch at The New Inn and really enjoyed sitting outside in their beer garden. The timber framed building is full of character and dates to the 14th century.

The food we had was great but the best part is the awesome view of the Cathedral’s spire that can be seen from the beer garden.

A few other pubs in Salisbury that are worth checking out: The Ox Row Inn, The Wig and Quill, The Haunch of Venison, The Old Mill. See this website for a list of more pubs and dining options in Salisbury.

Exploring the medieval streets of Salisbury

Where to stay in Salisbury

The Chapter House – A charming old Tudor building with plenty of character and modern comforts located in the town centre of Salisbury, within walking distance to attractions.

The rooms are nicely decorated with modern furnishings and each one features something different from original fireplaces to wooden wall panelling. The restaurant serves British cuisine with a breakfast included in your stay. Parking is available nearby for £6 per day.

The Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel – Finish off your England road trip in a lovely old building set in a scenic location. This beautiful hotel sits on the edge of the River Avon in a gorgeous 13th century half-timbered building.

It’s located just outside of the town centre, only a 10 minute walk from the Cathedral. Some of the rooms feature stunning river views. Free parking is available on site and breakfast is also included.

The Kings Head Inn Wetherspoon – If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option in the town centre of Salisbury, The Kings Head makes a great choice.

With excellent ratings, this hotel offers comfortable spacious rooms, a restaurant and bar on the ground floor, and walking distance to attractions, all for a reasonable price. Parking is available in a car park a few minutes walk from the inn.

►Browse more accommodation options in Salisbury◄

Salisbury Cathedral

Read More England Travel Guides

• The Top 20 Most Beautiful English Villages
• The Perfect Day Trip Itinerary from London to Bath 
• Top 10 Cotswolds Tours from London
• 10 Epic Day Trips to the Countryside of Kent

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I always say that the best way to get a real feel for a country is by getting out of the big city and visiting some smaller towns. You really can’t go wrong with taking a day trip to Bath from London, it is truly one of the prettiest English towns.

The beautiful Pulteney Bridge

Bath is considered the largest city in Somerset yet the historic centre is compact and easy to explore by foot. Some of the highlights of your day trip will be absorbing the fascinating history of the Roman baths, visiting the UK’s only natural thermal springs, checking out some cute British tea shops and perhaps a museum or two.

We recently spent a day in Bath while driving around the beautiful Cotswolds villages on a one week road trip from London. We really loved it there and wished we had longer to spend but since we only had a day, I’ve created this London to Bath day trip itinerary to help you plan out the perfect sightseeing adventure.

The Perfect London to Bath Day Trip Itinerary

Roman Baths

One of the main things people associate with the town of Bath are the incredibly well preserved ancient Roman Baths. They’ve been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are by far one of the most popular attractions in England. We’ve seen a lot of Roman sites over the years and this was definitely one of the best!

History of the Baths

With a history going back nearly 2000 years, the Romans first built a religious temple on the site of the hot springs around the year 70AD. Over the centuries that followed, it slowly developed into a public bath house which became known as “Aquae Sulis”.

The bathing complex was made up of a series of rooms including baths, sacred pools, plunge pools, saunas and heated rooms. It became so popular that people from all over the country and even parts of Europe would travel to visit this sacred site and enjoy the baths.

When the Romans left Britain in the 5th century, the bath house eventually fell to ruins due to flooding and neglect. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that the Roman Baths were uncovered, restored and opened up to the public. Restoration work extended through the 20th century until today where ongoing work is still being done in order to preserve the ancient site for years to come.

Visiting the Baths

When you first enter the bath house, you’ll walk around the upper terrace to get a nice view of the baths below. After strolling around the bath rooms, saunas and sacred pools, you’ll finish your visit at the museum which showcases many cool Roman artifacts including offerings that were once thrown into the springs.

It’s easy to spend 1-2 hours visiting the baths and soaking up all the history. Keep in mind you won’t be able to swim in the baths as this is a protected historical site for viewing purposes only. You will however be able to get up nice and close to the baths to take photos.

I would recommend starting out your London to Bath day trip by visiting the baths first thing in the morning. Queues can get quite long in the middle of the day with tour groups from London so it’s best to avoid the crowds.

Entrance to the Roman Baths

Pump Room Restaurant

Finish off your visit to the baths with a stop at the Pump Room for some tea and scones. The Pump Room was originally built in the late 18th century and was opened up to the public to serve thermal water for healing purposes. People would visit the Pump Room to socialize and drink the thermal water.

Nowadays it’s a beautiful restaurant serving tea, coffee, lunch and baked goods. You can even taste the spring water from the Pump Room’s fountain.

Roman Baths Opening Hours  – 9:30am – 5pm

The opening hours change on a seasonal basis and the baths stay open much later during the summer months, check the official website for the most current hours.

Roman Bath Tickets – Ticket prices vary between weekdays and weekends. They also slightly increase during high season. For more info about purchasing tickets to the baths, click here. Audio-guides are included in the ticket price.

Bath Abbey

After your visit to the Roman Baths, head over next door to the beautiful UNESCO listed Bath Abbey. The history of this church dates back over 1000 years but there have been many changes to it over the years. The interior of the church is very impressive with high ceilings and stunning stained glass windows.

You can also take a tour to the top of the church tower where you’ll find the most spectacular views over Bath and the surrounding countryside. Bear in mind that you’ll need to climb 212 steps of a narrow spiral staircase to reach the top.

Entry to the church is free but if you want to take the tower tour, tickets cost £8 per adult. Find out more info about the church tower tours here.

Bath Abbey

Thermae Bath Spa

For those disappointed that they couldn’t bathe in the ancient Roman baths, you’re in luck. Not too far from the Roman Baths, you can enjoy a soak in the baths of the Thermae Bath Spa which is fed by the natural mineral waters from the original springs.

There’s a beautiful open air rooftop pool where you can relax in the warm water and take in the stunning panoramic views around you. You also have the option of visiting the indoor Minerva Bath which is the largest of their thermal baths. In addition to the baths, there are steam rooms, saunas, ice chambers and more.

It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind for an hour or two. Unfortunately photos aren’t allowed to be taken here in order to respect the other guests. You can check out their website to see photos of how beautiful this place is. Find more information about prices, spa packages and opening times by visiting the official website.

Searching for all the best photo spots around Bath

The Royal Crescent

In the afternoon of your London to Bath day trip, make your way up the hill to see the Royal Crescent, one of the most iconic buildings in Bath. Built in the late 18th century, this impressive crescent shaped building is a stunning example of Georgian architecture. It makes for a great photo opportunity!

This gorgeous row of townhouses was once home to the upper class and nowadays the Royal Crescent is a luxurious 5 star hotel and spa as well as a museum. To get there from the town centre it’s a 15 minute walk up the hill, see here for directions.

On your way to the crescent, you’ll walk passed The Circus, a street of circular townhouses and another beautiful example of Georgian architecture. It was actually designed to mimic the shape of Stonehenge!

Royal Crescent

An aerial view of Bath Circus

Pulteney Bridge

The Pulteney Bridge is another one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks and one of only four bridges in the world that has shops lining both sides of the bridge. A day trip to Bath isn’t complete without a wander across the historic Pulteney Bridge, browsing the little shops and maybe buying a souvenir or two.

If you’re hunting that perfect Instagram angle like I was, you’ll want to cross the bridge and walk a little ways along the other side of the river until you reach the point where you can capture both the bridge and church tower in the background. Thank me later

Explore the Town Centre

Take a stroll through the pretty streets of the town admiring the beautiful Georgian architecture and browsing the cute shops and tea houses. If you’re looking for a good place to stop for lunch or a snack, pop into Sally Lunn’s tea house. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Bath and the place where the famous “Bath buns” were first created!

Sally Lunn’s dates back to the 15th century and it’s the perfect restaurant to try some traditional English cuisine as their menu is full of authentic and delicious meals. This lovely old tea house is open everyday for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. It’s definitely worth a visit at some point during your Bath day trip!

While you’re out exploring the town centre, make sure to check out the Bath Guildhall Market, it’s the oldest place to shop in Bath! This historic market has been operating for over 800 years. There are 20 stalls in the market: cafes, bakeries, jewellery shops, leather goods, book shops and more.

Opening times: 8am – 5:30pm Mon – Sat, closed on Sundays

Make sure to try the famous Bath buns!

Bath Museums

If you have any extra time to spend in Bath then you should check out a few of the museums that the town has to offer. Bath is home to 13 museums, there is really something for everyone!

Whether you’re into art, fashion or history, visiting a museum in Bath is a great way to spend a rainy day or an addition to the Bath day trip itinerary above. Here are some of the best museums in Bath (besides the Roman Baths!).

• No. 1 Royal Crescent – One of the townhouses at the Royal Crescent which has been decorated with historic furniture from the 18th century and turned into a museum to showcase what a home in Bath would have looked like during that time.
• Bath Fashion Museum -A museum with a beautiful collection of historic clothing telling the story of British fashion over the last 400 years. The museum is inside the Assembly Rooms, yet another gorgeous Georgian building.
• Holburne Museum – Set in a lovely location inside a Grade I listed building, this museum features paintings from the Renaissance period, sculptures, historic jewellery, porcelain and much more.
• Jane Austen Centre – Diving into the history of the famous British author who once called Bath home, take a look at what life looked like in 18th century England and get a chance to dress up in traditional clothing for a fun photo.
• Sally Lunn’s Museum – Dining at this historic tea house will give you access to the kitchen museum below. Take a look at the kitchen where the original Bath Bun was created and learn a bit about the building’s history that goes back over 1000 years!

Bath Walking Tour

The final thing that I’ll mention on this London to Bath day trip itinerary is a walking tour of Bath. Taking a guided walking tour is a great way to learn some background history and insider’s tips from a local guide. This popular Bath walking tour will show you the highlights of the town and also include a guided tour of the Roman Baths.

For a very reasonable price, a skip the line ticket to the Roman Baths is also included in this 2 hour tour! The tour will then take you to Bath Abbey, the Pulteney Bridge, Bath Circus and the Crescent.

Find tour prices and availability here

Bath Tours from London

Sometimes it’s just easier to have your day trip planned out and fully organized so that you can just sit back and enjoy the sights. If you’re one of those people that would prefer a guided day trip from London to Bath, find some of the best tours below.

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath Tour

An epic full day trip departing London in the morning and stopping first at the amazing Windsor Castle. Learn all about the 900 years of history at the castle that is still an official residence of the Queen. The next stop of the day will take you the mysterious ancient stone circle of Stonehenge.

The final stop of the day will be in Bath where you’ll take a guided tour to see the highlights of the town finishing up at the Roman Baths. Transportation, guided tours at all attractions and some entry tickets are included in the tour. See the link below for more detailed info.

Find tour prices and availability here

Bath and Cotswolds Tour from London

If you’re short on time but would like to see a little bit of everything, this highly rated tour makes a great choice. Stopping at some of England’s best highlights, you’ll be able to tick off some amazing sights from your bucket list. The tour departs London and stops in Stonehenge, Bath, the Cotswolds villages, and Stratford-upon-Avon.

An experienced guide, transportation and plenty of free time at each attraction are included in this day trip. It works out to be a long day(12 hrs), but if you’re spending some time in London and looking to get a taste of England’s pretty countryside, then this is the perfect tour option for you!

Find tour prices and availability here

Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London

The tour departs London and makes the first stop of the day at the UNESCO listed site of Stonehenge. Enjoy a guided tour while learning the fascinating history behind this ancient monument.

The afternoon will be spent in Bath where you’ll have the option to choose which sites you’d like to visit. This day tour is great if you would prefer to have more free time to explore Bath at your own pace. See the link below for more detailed info on this London to Bath day trip.

Find tour prices and availability here

Getting from London to Bath

The easiest way to get from London to Bath is by taking the train. The train to Bath departs frequently throughout the day from London’s Paddington Station. The total journey takes just under 1.5 hrs.

➤Find train times and ticket prices here

Where to Stay in Bath

Too tired after sightseeing all day to make the trek back to London? Bath has plenty of nice places to stay in and around the town. We had a car when visiting so we stayed just outside of the town in a charming old manor called the Bailbrook Lodge.

We had a nice stay there and really enjoyed the breakfast which is served with a complimentary glass of champagne! It was really easy to catch the bus into town from the street just outside of the B&B. Click here to book a room at the Bailbrook Lodge.

If you’d prefer something more centrally located click here to browse more accommodation options in Bath.

Discover More Unforgettable Day Trips from London

• 10 awesome day trips from London to Kent
• The perfect day trip to Canterbury from London itinerary
• Day trip to Dover from London: an epic one day itinerary
• The ultimate one week road trip from London

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If you’re short on time while visiting London and hoping to squeeze in a day trip to some of England’s prettiest villages, then you’ve come to the right place! This guide covers all of the best Cotswolds tours from London.

The best way to tick off multiple villages in one day is to take an organized Cotswolds day trip. Having an experienced guide to show you around will take the stress out of navigating so that you can relax and enjoy a memorable day in the countryside!

The fairy-tale villages of the Cotswolds appear to be frozen in time

I’ve taken the stress out of the planning and I’ve done the research for you. I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to selecting the very best Cotswolds tour from London to suit all preferences and requirements.

Below you will find 10 of the most highly rated and popular Cotswolds tours from London. Whether you’re looking to see some of the prettiest villages or a mix between villages and cities (like Bath and Oxford), there is a Cotswolds tour out there for everyone. The beauty of the English countryside awaits you…

The 10 Best Cotswolds Tours from London in 2025

The charming Arlington Row of Bibury

Cotswolds Villages Tour from London with Lunch

Stops: Burford, Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold

Duration: 11 hours

Includes: English speaking tour guide, 2 course lunch, transportation by luxury coach

The pretty Swan Hotel in Bibury

This full day trip from London leaves at 8:15 am and takes you to three of the most iconic and lovely Cotswolds villages. The first stop of the day is the ‘gateway to the Cotswolds’, Burford.

The next stop will take you to the dreamy village of Bibury. The postcard perfect scene of Arlington Row has become world famous and has given Bibury the title of “the prettiest village in the Cotswolds“. Enjoy a 2 course traditional lunch at the gorgeous 17th century Swan Hotel.

The afternoon will take you to one more beautiful village, the lovely market town of Stow-on-the-Wold. The tour includes a guided walking tour through Stow-on-the-Wold before returning to London in the evening.

Keep in mind this is one of the most popular and highly-rated tours to the Cotswolds from London, book this one ahead of time if travelling during peak season months. 

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here.

Oxford and Cotswolds Villages

Stops: Oxford, Minster Lovell Hall (a stunning 15th century manor house), Burford, Bibury

Duration: 10 hours

Includes: English speaking tour guide, transportation by luxury coach

Discover the history of Oxford

This tour departs London at 9:15 am and travels by luxury coach stopping firstly at the beautiful, historic city of Oxford. You’ll spend the morning diving into centuries of fascinating history at England’s oldest university. Enjoy a wander through the ancient streets and admire an epic view of the city’s oldest spires from a vantage point.

The tour continues to the Cotswolds with a stop to explore the medieval market town of Burford. This lovely village lined with Tudor architecture is said to be the gateway to the Cotswolds.

Afterwards, you’ll head over to Bibury and finish the day off with a stroll along the famous Arlington Row before returning to London in the evening. This full day Cotswolds tour from London lasts for 10 hours and includes an experienced guide.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here.

Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds

Stops: Stratford-upon-Avon, Cotswolds, Oxford

Duration: 11 hours

Includes: English speaking tour guide, transportation by luxury coach

Admire the beautiful cottages of Stratford-upon-Avon

Departing London at 7:45 am, the first stop of the day will take you to Shakespeare’s birthplace, the lovely town of Stratford-upon-Avon. Enjoy 2 hours of free time to explore the town and visit Shakespeare’s house.

Admire the beautifully preserved Tudor architecture throughout the town and make sure to stop at the famous Swan Theatre.

The tour will continue with a scenic drive through the prettiest areas of the Cotswolds. Take in the breathtaking beauty of the English countryside as you pass through on the way to your next stop, Oxford.

Take a stroll through the famous university city stopping at all the best attractions recommended by your guide. Finish off the day with a meal and a pint in the city’s most haunted pub. Arrive back in London by 6:30 pm.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here.

Stonehenge, Bath, Lacock & Avebury Small Group Tour

Stops: Stonehenge, Bath, Lacock, Avebury

Duration: 11 hours

Includes: Entrance to Stonehenge and Visitor Centre, Admission to the Roman Baths, Entrance to Avebury Stone Circle, English speaking tour guide, transportation by mini-coach

Start off your day tour from London with a stop at Stonehenge to marvel at over 5,000 years of fascinating British history. Take a tour of this impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site followed by some time to check out the visitor centre for more information.

The next stop on the itinerary will be a trip to the historic city of Bath for lunch and to see the famous Roman baths. The tour will continue to the pretty town of Lacock where you’ll have a chance admire its cute cottages and beautiful church.

Lacock has been a famous filming location for many films and TV productions over the years. Fans of Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, and Pride and Prejudice may recognize some of the scenery around the village.

This tour will finish up in the town of Avebury where you will take a walk through the countryside to see the largest Neolithic stone circle in the world.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here. 

Taking in the beauty of Bath

Downton Abbey Private Cotswolds Tour from London

Stops: Enjoy a private day tour from London to the famous Cotswolds villages of Bampton, Bourton-on-the-Water, Blenheim Palace & more

Duration: 9 hours

Includes: Pickup directly from your hotel in London, drop off at hotel at the end of the tour, private driver for the duration of the day, suitable for groups of up to 5 people

The beautiful town of Bourton-on-the-Water

This private full day Cotswolds tour is an excellent option for those who prefer a customised tour experience. It’s a great choice for couples seeking a romantic day trip or families who would prefer a more intimate tour setting.

This popular tour will take you through the most beautiful sections of the Cotswolds ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ stopping at a number of Downtown Abbey filming locations. Explore the quaint villages of Bampton and Bourton-on-the-Water and enjoy a tour of the stunning Blenheim Palace.

Avoid large groups and see the best of the English countryside and the Cotswolds region on this relaxing private day tour.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here.

Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds

Stops: Blenheim Palace, Bourton-on-the-Water, Bampton

Duration: 1 full day

Includes: Entrance to Blenheim Palace and gardens, audio headset tour, visit to 2x Cotswolds villages, English speaking tour guide, transportation by luxury coach

The breathtakingly beautiful Blenheim Palace

This full day Cotswolds tour from London departs first thing in the morning and brings you to the impressive 18th century Blenheim Palace. Take a guided tour of the palace’s majestic interiors followed by a stroll through the beautifully kept gardens.

The tour will continue to Bourton-on-the-Water, one the prettiest villages in the area. It’s often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” because of its many little bridges crossing the river that runs through the village.

The charming Cotswolds village of Bampton will be the final stop of the tour. Downton Abbey fans will recognize many of the famous filming locations around Bampton like the church, two local pubs and the Downton hospital.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here.

London to the Cotswolds: Iconic Village Tour

Stops: Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water

Duration: 9 hours

Includes: English speaking tour guide, transportation by mini-bus, tour of 4x Cotswolds villages

Soaking up the magic of the Cotswolds in Bibury

See the best highlights of the Cotswolds on this 10 hour tour that departs London in the morning and takes you to the medieval town of Burford. Spend some time exploring the village and make sure to check out the 500 year old church.

The tour will continue to the market town of Stow-on-the-Wold. Enjoy some free time to stroll through the pretty streets and admire the quintessential honey-coloured stone buildings.

The next stop will be a traditional lunch followed by a scenic drive through rolling hills and old country lanes. In the afternoon the tour will stop in Bibury, a place that’s often referred to as one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages.

Last but not least is a visit to the charming riverside town of Henley-on-Thames before making your way back to London to finish the day.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here.

Best of the Cotswolds & Blenheim Palace With Lunch

Stops: Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Upper & Lower Slaughter, Blenheim Palace

Duration: 1 full day (7:15 am departure)

Includes: Entry to Blenheim Palace, 1-course pub lunch, travel by luxury bus, Guided tours of Burford, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-water, Upper & Lower Slaughter and Stow-on-the-Wold, Woodstock

The gorgeous village of Lower Slaughter

For those looking to squeeze in as many English villages as possible into your day trip from London, then look no further! This fully packed tour leaves quite early in the morning (7:15 am) but it’s worth the early start as you will maximize your day by seeing as much of the English countryside as possible.

Starting off with a beautiful drive through narrow country lanes, passing through the cute villages of Minster Lovell, Asthall and Swinbrook until you reach Stow-on-the-Wold. Take a guided tour through this iconic English village before carrying on to have a delicious 1 course pub lunch at a cosy old pub in Burford.

Not too far away is the small village of Bibury where you’ll have a chance to wander along the famous Arlington Row. Next, you’ll head over to yet another gem of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water. Take a tour of this charming village which is also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds.’

Enjoy some time to explore the villages of Upper & Lower Slaughter before finishing up the day at the majestic Blenheim Palace. This 18th century palace is famous for being the largest privately owned home in the country as well as the birthplace of Winston Churchill!

This day trip ends with a chance to explore the impressive interiors and gardens of Blenheim Palace before returning to London in the evening.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here.

Experience a real life fairy-tale when you visit the Cotswolds

Warwick Castle, Stratford, Oxford & Cotswolds Day Trip

Stops: Oxford, Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick Castle

Duration: 12 hours (multiple starting times available)

Includes: Professional English speaking tour guide, transportation by luxury coach, fast-track entry to Warwick Castle, entrance to Shakespeare’s schoolroom and guildhall, entrance to Shakespeare’s birthplace museum

Warwick Castle

Departing London in the morning, the tour begins with a guided walking tour of Oxford. Admire the impressive architecture of the world famous university and enjoy some free time to explore the town and browse a few shops.

A scenic drive through the Cotswolds will take you to the birth town of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon. Take a tour of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall, the place where Shakespeare learned to read and write as a young student in the 1570’s.

Afterwards, make a visit to the house where Shakespeare was born. Enjoy free time to explore this beautifully preserved Tudor village and grab some lunch while you’re there.

Before returning to London, you’ll take a step back in time to discover over 1,000 years of English history at the incredible Warwick Castle. Spend some time exploring the ramparts, gardens, towers and beautifully decorated chambers of one of England’s most famous medieval castle.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here.

The Best of England In A Day

Stops: Stonehenge, Bath, Cotswolds Villages, Stratford-upon-Avon

Duration: 12 hours (approx)

Includes: Transportation by mini bus, experienced English speaking guide/driver, visit to Stonehenge, panoramic tour of Bath city, private tour of Shakespeare’s classroom including sparkling wine and fresh scones

The beautiful city of Bath

Tick off some England’s most well-known and loved attractions on this fully packed day trip from London to the Cotswolds. This popular and highly-rated tour is ideal for those with limited time in London who are interested in seeing many of England’s highlights in a single day. This is all made possible with pre-booked entries and shorter stops at each attraction.

Departing from London in the morning, the first stop of the day will bring you to one of the world’s most famous prehistoric sites, Stonehenge. Witness the spectacular sight of this ancient wonder on a fully guided tour followed by a wander through the Visitor Centre.

Next up on the itinerary is a visit to the historic city of Bath where you will dive into thousands of years worth of fascinating Roman history. See the UNESCO-listed Roman Baths, admire the beautiful Georgian architecture throughout the town, and enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Be sure to pop into Sally Lunn’s Eating House for a chance to try the famous “Bath Bun”!

The tour continues with a scenic drive through the rolling green hills and pastures of the stunning Cotswolds region. Pass through some of the most picturesque villages that appear to be frozen in time before arriving at the medieval town of Stratford-upon-Avon. Explore the charming half-timbered houses and learn all about the life of William Shakespeare by taking a tour of his schoolroom.

For a more detailed and comprehensive itinerary of this full day trip from London, please see the link below.

➤Find more information about tour prices and availability here. 

Visit the famous Roman baths

Where to Stay in London

For easy access to all of London’s main attractions, it’s best to base yourself somewhere central. This will limit the amount of time spent on public transportation and make life easier when you’re out and about sightseeing.

It’s also ideal for travelling to the meeting point of your chosen Cotswolds Tour. Most of these tours depart from the Central London area so I have recommended some accommodation options for every budget nearby.

Budget

The Z-Hotel Victoria – If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay near Central London, you can’t go wrong with the Z-Hotel. This centrally located hotel is only a 10 minute walk from Buckingham Palace and the Victoria Underground Station.

It features comfortable compact rooms, a continental breakfast each morning, and friendly welcoming staff, all for a very reasonable price considering its great location! See prices and availability for the Z-Hotel Victoria on Booking.com.

Exploring Oxford’s High Street

Mid-Range

The Harrington – These spacious apartments are situated in the heart of Kensington and only a 2 minute walk from the Gloucester Road Underground Station. Set inside a beautiful Victorian building, each room features a fully equipped kitchen, lounge area, and private bathroom.

Many popular London attractions are located within a 15 minute walk from this property. With excellent ratings on Booking.com, the Harrington will have you feeling at home during your stay in London. Check prices and availability for the Harrington.

Luxury

The Londoner – This stunning hotel features tastefully decorated rooms, a rooftop lounge, spa with a pool and gym, 6 different restaurants and bars to choose from. The Londoner is conveniently located in Leicester Square which is a short walk away from some of London’s best neighbourhoods like Soho, Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square etc.

For those seeking some extra comfort and relaxation during your holiday in London, then this is the hotel for you. Find prices and availability for the Londoner.

→Browse more accommodation options in London←

English Heritage Attraction Pass

Are you visiting the UK from overseas? If the answer is yes, you have the option of purchasing the English Heritage Attraction Pass. For a one time fee, this pass gives you access to over 100 ancient sites and castles like Stonehenge, Dover Castle, Hadrian’s Wall and many more.

Note: It’s only available to overseas visitors. It includes a free 300 page guidebook with maps. Start saving money by visiting only a few sites and get reduced tickets to special events.

➤Click here to purchase your English Heritage Attraction Pass

I hope this guide has been useful to you during your tour planning and booking process. I also hope you fall in love with the gorgeous Cotswolds area as much as I did. This is a place that I could return to over and over again and never tire of it.

The villages and historic cities around this part of the England are truly magical and deserve a place on anyone’s England itinerary! Let me know how your experience in the Cotswolds goes and if you’ve booked one of the tours that I’ve recommended, don’t hesitate to tell me about it in the comments.

Visit More of England With Me:

• Discover the top 20 most beautiful English villages
• The perfect day trip itinerary to Dover from London
• The top 10 day trips to Kent from London
• How to spend a full day in the historic town of Canterbury
• The best London to Bath day trip itinerary
• The ultimate one week road trip from London

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This blog only recommends products and services that I’ve tried/love. Thank you for your support!

The post The 10 Best Cotswolds Tours from London in 2025 appeared first on The Road Is Life.

Quaint stone cottages, cute historic pubs surrounded by rolling green hills and little streams flowing through – there are few things in this world more picturesque than a quintessential English village. The countryside of England is home to an abundance of stunning little towns and villages, each one just as pretty as the next.

Some are so beautiful, it’s hard to imagine that people actually live there and you’re not walking through the set of a movie! Full of character and old-world charm, every village has its own story to tell. Each one featured in this article would make an excellent addition to your England road trip itinerary, otherwise it is possible to visit most of them on a day trip from London if you’re short on time!

Retreating to the English countryside is the perfect way to escape the city, take a step back in time and enjoy the slow-paced way of village life. From the popular Cotswolds villages to some lesser known gems, here are 20 of the most charming and beautiful English villages to inspire your next visit.

20 of the Most Charming and Beautiful English Villages

The fairy-tale village of Castle Combe in the Cotswolds

Broadway, Worcestershire

-By Wendy from Empty Nesters Hit The Road

Photo of Broadway by Empty Nesters Hit The Road

Located in West England, the Cotswolds is full of picturesque villages. Choosing which one to visit is never easy, but Broadway is a good bet. Like all of its neighbours Broadway is full of honey coloured stone buildings, streets lined with ancient trees, and plenty of window boxes filled with colourful flowers. But as it’s larger than many of the surrounding towns, it offers great boutique shopping and a selection of excellent restaurants. As a popular destination for artists, there is also a nice selection of galleries in town.

With its location along The Cotswold Way, Broadway is a popular overnight stop for multi-day hikers. It has a nice selection of bed and breakfast inns and guest houses, most of which are locally owned and operated. After a long day in the countryside, walkers look forward to the creature comforts of this lovely village.

For history and architecture buffs, the famous Broadway Tower is located one mile south-east of the town in Broadway Tower Country Park. Built in 1798, this tower is known as the Highest Little Castle in the Cotswolds. Today the tower houses a museum on three of its floors. Also located in the park is a herd of red deer. In the Spring and Fall it’s possible to see the deer and their babies.

Broadway is just two hours northwest of London. Many visitors opt to take the train from Paddington Station to Moreton-in-Marsh and then a cab or bus to Broadway.

→Click here to browse accommodation options in Broadway←

Painswick Village, Gloucestershire

-By Sophie from We Dream Of Travel

The beautiful Painswick Village, photo by We Dream of Travel

Painswick is a beautiful, quaint village tucked away amidst the British countryside within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  With its honey-hued homes and cobbled streets, it is easily the prettiest village in the Cotswolds, if not the whole of England!

Located just over 2 hours’ drive from London, it makes for a perfect day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and can be combined with any of the other charming Cotswold villages.  Painswick is steeped in history and as you meander through its labyrinth of streets and alleyways, you’ll encounter clues to the past.  Many of the buildings have small plaques on them to acknowledge their former use and there are a number of informative boards around the town to give insight into the village’s long history.

There were once 17 inns and alehouses in Painswick, and today Painswick is still well known for its excellent restaurants. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Golden Heart pub sign on Tibbiwell Lane.  While the pub no longer exists, the sign remains as part of a protected Grade II listed building.

The pretty church garden, photo by We Dream of Travel

The village of Painswick is also renowned for its church garden, home to 100 yew trees.  Until 2000, there had been 99 yew trees and legend told that the hundredth yew tree planted would be destroyed by the devil.  However, to commemorate the millennium, each parish in Gloucester received and planted a yew tree.  Contrary to the legend, the 100th tree is still alive and well!

Painswick is also home to the Rococo gardens, dating back to 1748 and hailed as one of the Cotswolds’ best kept secrets.  These gardens provide the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.

Bibury, Gloucestershire

-By Christina from Travel2Next

The charming Arlington Row in Bibury, photo by Travel2Next

British poet William Morris wasn’t wrong when he called Bibury “the most beautiful village in England”. When the sun streams on the honey-coloured stone cottages of Arlington Row, it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful of all the Cotswold villages. It looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. Completing the picture is a bubbling brook, lovely gardens and a tranquil pond. Arlington Row is possibly the most photographed village in England. Built in 1380, the cottages were initially used to store wool but later became weavers’ cottages to produce cloth that was sent to Arlington Mill for processing.

While most people are attracted to Bibury to take photos of Arlington Row, it’s also worth visiting the Bibury Trout Farm to learn how they breed Rainbow and Brown Trout. The farm has been operating since 1902 and has a gift shop, picnic areas and a fresh seafood counter where you can buy smoked trout and other seafood. On weekends, a fun thing to do is to go fishing and catch fish to take home. The farm supplies fishing rods and the activity is suitable for beginners, and you pay for your catch by weight.

There are some charming cottages to stay at in Bibury, but you’ll want to book a room at The Swan Hotel, which was once a coaching inn and is beside the River Coln. You can get to Bibury by train, public bus or by car but if you’re planning on exploring other villages in the Cotswolds driving is the most convenient way to get around.

Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire

-By Emily from Kids and Compass

Bourton-on-the-Water, photo by Kids and Compass

Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most beautiful and popular villages in the Cotswolds. Think old, honey coloured houses, covered in climbing roses with pretty little gardens lining a stream; cute cafes and boutique shops.

Bourton-on-the-Water is also known as the Venice of the Cotswolds. The river Windrush is crossed by several little bridges, although sadly you can’t punt up and down as the stream is far too small!

You’ll find plenty of attractions in Bourton-on-the-Water when you’re finished admiring the surroundings. Families will enjoy visiting Birdland which is home to flamingos, cassowaries and other exotic species, although it’s also a haven for wild birds. Don’t forget the Jurassic Journey walk, where kids can look for dinosaurs hidden in the undergrowth.

The Cotswold Motoring Museum has an incredible collection of cars, buses and other vehicles and motoring memorabilia. There’s a great collection of toys too. You might also want to visit the miniature village in the town centre.

Bourton-on-the-Water, photo by Kids and Compass

Bourton-on-the-Water also has a cute little hedge maze. You have to solve clues as you walk around, and you won’t be able to find the treasure at the centre without completing the puzzle.

Bourton-on-the-Water is a two-hour drive from London. If you can’t drive, then take a train to Moreton in Marsh and then a bus to Bourton-on-the-Water. The town is also a great base for exploring the rest of the Cotswolds as it’s so centrally located.

Stay in the boutique and centrally located Chester House Hotel, although there are plenty more choices to suit any budget.

Lower Slaughter, Gloucestershire

–By Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

The picturesque village of Lower Slaughter

Lower Slaughter is a picturesque Cotswold village in the county of Gloucestershire, filled with limestone cottages built in the traditional Cotswold style. It doesn’t receive as many tourists as some of the more popular Cotswold villages and has managed to retain a more authentic charm. As a vegan traveler in the Cotswolds, I was a bit wary of staying in a place called “slaughter”, but thankfully the name does not refer to the slaughter of animals.

Rather, it comes from the Old English word sloh, which means “a marshy or muddy place”, and refers to the nearby wetlands and the Eye stream that flows through the village. Lower Slaughter is known as one of the Cotswold’s “water villages” and features several quaint stone footbridges that cross the stream. You can often see geese and other water birds paddling around in the water. Copeshill Road, which follows the stream, has been voted the Most Romantic Street in Britain!

A cute bridge in Lower Slaughter, photo by The Nomadic Vegan

As you may have guessed, there is also a village called Upper Slaughter, which is just a short walk away. This lovely stroll along the stream takes about 25 minutes and is highly recommended. Along the way, you’ll pass the Old Mill, which was built in the 19th century and has now been converted into an arts and crafts shop. The mill’s original water wheel is still functioning.

By car, Lower Slaughter is about a two-hour drive from London. If you’re taking public transport, the train takes about three hours, while the National Express bus is a bit faster and also much cheaper.

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

-By Josie from Where Jo Goes

The gorgeous architecture of Castle Combe, photo by Where Jo Goes

Often lauded as England’s prettiest village, Castle Combe in Wiltshire is a single meandering high street of honey coloured stone, a brook bubbling through it. At one end of the street is the much photographed bridge with the picturesque cottages that overlook it. At the other stands the Market Cross, the village pump, traditional English pubs including the 12^th Century Castle Inn and St Andrews Church. You’ll notice the locals sell produce such as home-made cakes and jams straight from their doorsteps, bringing a touch of local personality to this bucolic spot in the heart of the English countryside.

On arrival, Castle Combe may well look familiar. War Horse was filmed here and it features in Downton Abbey and many period dramas.

The Manor House Hotel at Castle Combe is a luxury hotel with a Michelin starred restaurant. Take a wander through the Italianate gardens or along the river bank if you’re stopping for a meal or drink in the hotel or a game of golf at the hotel’s club. It’s also the perfect spot for a quintessentially English afternoon tea. Confession, I spent the first night of my honeymoon here so it has a soft spot in my heart, it’s such a beautiful spot!

Photo of Castle Combe by Where Jo Goes

For a more adrenaline filled pursuit, Castle Combe Circuit offers a range of driving experiences.

Getting here: A 3-hour drive from London or 50 mins from Bristol, the village is best reached by car. Nearest train station: Chippenham (15 mins drive away). Click here to find train times and tickets.

If you are on the hunt for yet more gorgeous English villages, combine with a trip to Lacock or head to Bath to sample the spa waters.

→Click here to book your accommodation in Castle Combe←

Lacock, Wiltshire

-By Laura from What’s Hot Blog 

Lacock, Wiltshire, photo by What’s Hot Blog

Lacock is a charming English village that has somehow managed to preserve its medieval spirit to this very day. As you wander through the village, you’ll see cosy pubs and eateries, even the odd honesty vegetable stall or two. Locals will often leave their homegrown vegetables and other homemade wares on their doorsteps and windowsills and you can leave a coin or two in exchange.

Just 30 minutes by car from Bath, Lacock is definitely worth visiting for an afternoon, especially if you’re a film aficionado. Walking through the streets of Lacock, you could be forgiven for thinking you’d stumbled into a period drama. That’s exactly why this tiny British village is so often used as a filming location, famously for the most magical tale of our time: Harry Potter.

The best thing to do in Lacock is to visit Lacock Abbey, which dates back to the 13th century. The interiors are beautiful with ornate decorations and furniture. It also served as a Harry Potter filming location with its cloisters being used as Hogwarts corridors and the now-empty rooms doubling up as Quirrel and Snape’s classrooms. In the main village, you’ll see other traditional, quaint British homes, one of which served as Harry Potter’s parents’ house and another as Slughorn’s hideaway. Other films shot here include Wolf Hall, Cranston and even an episode of Downton Abbey.

It’s small, but it’s beautiful. If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into times gone by and have a very charming British day then you must add Lacock to your bucket list.

The Best Tours to the Cotswolds from London

Looking to take a day trip to the Cotswolds from London? Find some of the best Cotswolds tour options below or click here to read my complete guide on choosing the best Cotswolds tour from London.

Bampton, Oxfordshire

-By Faith from XYUandBEYOND

St. Mary’s Church in Bampton, photo by XYUandBEYOND

Bampton is set in the Oxfordshire countryside right on the edge of the Cotswolds. A chocolate box village that sits about 20 miles west of Oxford this charming little town stands in for Downton Village in the Downton Abbey show.

Bampton’s history goes back as far as the Iron Age and it is said that the Romans also settled here. What makes Bampton special is that it is Downton Village. The Village is also incredibly peaceful and quintessentially English with its independent shops and a high street that still features its historic buildings.

Church View is a lovely little green square behind the main village high street. If you watched Downton Abbey you will immediately recognise the area and St. Mary’s Church. The Church dates back to the 11th century and was built as a Saxon Minister. Over the years new additions such as the gothic spire have been added.

To the left of the Church is the Rectory now called the Deanery it was built in the 13th century and later was reconstructed as a Georgian Manor. In Downton, it was used as Isobel Crawley’s home.

Bampton Church View, photo by XYUandBEYOND

Church View stands the same as it has done for centuries the green square with its large oak trees is a little peaceful oasis. Just down from the Deanery is “Downton’s hospital”. Now run as a visitor’s Centre where local crafts and Downton memorabilia are sold. All the profits from sales and the filming of Downton are used to assist the village in its conservation efforts.

Walking into the main village past the visitors’ centre you will be treated to a lovely main street where you can grab a pint at the Horseshoe Inn or treat yourself to a cream tea at the Bampton Coffee House.

Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire

-By Maggie from Pink Caddy Travelogue

Beautiful medieval buildings of Stratford-upon-Avon, photo by Pink Caddy Travelogue

Stratford-upon-Avon is not only one of the most beautiful English villages, but it’s also a can’t-miss for literature buffs. Named for the River Avon that flows through it, Stratford-upon-Avon is a beautiful, historical gem just an hour from London that can be easily reached via train or car.

Visiting the village is like stepping back in time. Founded in 1196, Stratford upon Avon has retained much of its historic flavor, despite being a bustling modern village. Although visited by millions of tourists every year, the town itself is charming and distinctly English. Many of the buildings have kept their original Elizabethan or medieval look, and in springtime, English gardens abound in the streets surrounding town-center.

It’s charm alone is worth checking out, but the town’s biggest claim to fame is for being the epicenter of all things Shakespeare. The famous poet was born here, spent most of his life here, and died and was buried in this quiet English village. Most of his immediate family had homes here as well.

Visitors can tour Shakespeare’s birthplace, a waddle-and-daub cottage where, in 1564, the poet himself was born. Tourists can also check out Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare’s family worshipped and where many of them are now buried. End the day by seeing one of Shakespeare’s works brought to life on stage at the Royal Shakespeare Theater, an unforgettable experience!

→Click here to book your accommodation in Stratford-upon-Avon←

Downham, Lancashire

-By Chris and Heather from A Brit & A Southerner

The lovely village of Downham in Lancashire, photo by A Brit & A Southerner

When it comes to idyllic English villages, you could be forgiven for thinking about hamlets in the Cotswolds or neighbouring counties. However, why not head north to the Red Rose county of Lancashire to explore the beautiful village of Downham, located in the Ribble Valley less than 40 miles north of Manchester.

Rural England is epitomized in this part of Lancashire and if you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Lancashire locals in Downham will certainly make you feel welcome as they go about daily life in this quintessential English village. Visit Downham if you are looking for a location that epitomizes everything there is to love about stereotypical rural England.

The history of Downham dates back to the 15^th-century and the Assheton family who are responsible for the village and surrounding estate. Today, visitors can enjoy a quiet, relaxing stroll up and down the village before heading inside the Assheton Arms to sample fine Lancashire cuisine and a beer or two. Visit St. Leonard’s Church towers above the Downham landscape at the top of the hill and you may well be greeted either by the local vicar or perhaps the resident hen that frequently roams around the church and down into the village.

Downham is a charming village full of character, frequently associated with the nearby Pendle Hill and the resident witches but this story should be left for another day. Instead, take your time enjoying the inherent beauty of a picture postcard village.

Castleton, Derbyshire

-By Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

The quaint village of Castleton, photo by The Wanderlust Within

The chocolate box village of Castleton in Hope Valley, is a hotspot for hikers, outdoor lovers and history buffs. Looming over this quaint and charming village is Mam Tor, also known as Shivering Mountain. It is the top attraction in Castleton and is one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the Peak District. Mam Tor is only a two-hour circular hike from the village centre, making it possible for adults and children alike.

Castleton village is also overlooked by the ancient Peveril Castle. The 11th century castle is one of England’s earliest Norman fortresses, and the ruins can still be visited today. A short hike to the top of the hill is required but you’ll be awarded with breath-taking views of Hope Valley.

In fact, Castleton is surrounded by hikes, so after you’ve burnt some calories, the best place to visit is one of the many tea rooms in Castleton. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the Peak District, followed by a visit to some of the country’s best show caves and caverns.

Castleton village is situated in Derbyshire’s Peak District and can be reached in only half an hour from Sheffield by train. If you arrive by car, you’ll be blessed with spectacular views of Winnats Pass as you drive into Castleton. Just another reason to visit this picturesque English village.

→Book your day trip to Castleton from Manchester←

Debenham, Suffolk

-By Chelsea from The Portable Wife

The riverside village of Debenham, photo by The Portable Wife

Debenham is a tiny riverside village nestled in the Suffolk countryside. Despite its small size, Debenham gets regular visitors thanks to its numerous antique stores, artisan craft shops, and charming “chocolate box” cottages.

The best way to experience Debenham is on foot. The village is very walkable, and you’ll find plenty of Instagrammable buildings and gardens as you stroll up the main road and smaller residential streets.

If you get hungry, stop into the Vanilla Bakery Cafe for some delicious baked goods or the River Green Cafe and Deli for tasty sandwiches and tea. The deli also sells locally crafted food and drink, including infused gins and fruit preserves.

Book lovers should stop into David Shacklock Book Services, where towering stacks and shelves of antique novels create a cozy atmosphere. If you like one-of-a-kind items, head to Spiral for unique accessories and home decor. And of course, no trip to Debenham would be complete without visiting a few antique shops, especially Swan House and Garden.

Getting to Debenham is easiest by car. However, there are buses that run from nearby Stowmarket and Ipswich. And if you want to try glamping in Suffolk, Kenton Hall Estate is walkable from the village and offers yurt and shepherd’s hut lodging from May through October.

→Book your glamping experience at Kenton Hall Estate←

Cley-Next-the-Sea, Norfolk

-By Susan from Travel Guideline Blog

The beautiful beach at Cley-Next-the-Sea, photo by Travel Guideline Blog

Cley-Next-the-Sea is a small village with a population of less than 500 people. But despite the small size, there’s so much to see and do!

The most popular attraction is the nearby Cley Marshes, home to thousands of birds and a must-see spot for birders and wildlife photographers. It’s the oldest county wildlife trust in Britain, dating back to 1926. Annually it brings in more than 100,000 visitors. It’s a lovely property with marshes, a beachfront, and views of the Cley Windmill.

In town, you can visit Artemis, a coffee shop with delicious breakfast, scones, coffee and tea. When the weather is nice, their terrace overlooks a marsh area that’s scenic and peaceful. While you’re there, you can also visit The Artemis Barn. It’s a boutique on the same property that carries clothing, home decor items, and gifts of all kinds.

Just across the street is Picnic Fayre, a small grocery and deli housed in the town’s old forge building. They carry all kinds of meats and cheeses, plus an amazing array of chutneys. You can also find homemade cakes and bread, plus locally-grown produce. The store is entirely charming, from the window front to the wine room in the back.

Cley-Next-the-Sea, photo by Travel Guideline Blog

Don’t forget to book a seal-watching trip to Blakeney Point! The tours last 60-90 minutes and depending on the time of year, you will see grey and/or common seals. The boat trip itself is loads of fun and perfect for families with young children.

History buffs will enjoy the Cley Windmill, Felbrigg Hall, and St. Margaret’s Church. The windmill dates to the 1800s. It now operates as a bed-and-breakfast, so consider a stay there if it suits your fancy. Felbrigg Hall is located in nearby Felbrigg Village, and is a 17th-century country house of Stuart architecture. Lastly, St. Margaret’s is an active parish in the Anglican Church, and dates back to the early 1300s.

If you’re taking a Norfolk beach road trip along the A149, you’ll go right through Cley. You can also get there by bus or train.

Cheddar, Somerset

-By Darek from DarekandGosia.com

The village of Cheddar, photo by DarekandGosia.com

Cheddar is one of those beautiful and sleepy English villages which is worth visiting on a weekend trip to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The village is located in Somerset, in South England. If you travel by train, it is best to reach the seaside resort of Weston-Super-Mare or nearby Bristol, and then take a bus from Westop-Super-Mare 126, or from Bristol 672. All travelling by car from London should drive the M4 motorway to Bristol, then exit on M5. The road to Cheddar itself is well signposted so you will not have a problem reaching it.

The village is not only a land of rock walls, beautiful caves and mountain viewing terraces. Cheddar is famous for its production of sweet yellow cheese which originated there over a thousand years ago! In addition, delicious cheddar Ale is produced in the mini-brewery and available in all local pubs. Tea enthusiasts can enjoy a drink in the local tearoom, famous for its excellent home-made cakes.

Cheese lovers who visit Cheddar because of its famous production should not only visit the original place of its production – in a deep cave – but also see the modern place of cheddar production. On site there are shops where you can buy fresh and original cheese in many varieties.

This might sound cheesy, but Cheddar is really one of the best villages in England.

Wembury, Devon

-By Annemarie from Travel On The Brain

Wembury Woods bluebells, photo by Travel On The Brain

Wembury in Devon, England is a cute little village near Plymouth, right by the coast. But what makes it so special isn’t its cottage style houses but its nature settings. In summer, it’s a great idea to stroll down among the rugged cliffs and take a dip at Wembury Beach. Throw down a towel on the small sandy beach for some sunbathing afterwards.

Should you plan your visit in spring, time it so you can see the ancient woods carpeted by magnificent fields of bluebells. British bluebells are protected and native (and pretty much exclusive) to Britain and are not to be missed.

If you don’t have a car, you can take the local hourly bus 48 from Plymouth to the northern edge of the town (ask for stop ‘Hollacombe’) and start your walk through Traine and Hollacombe Wood down to Wembury Woods.

After entering through the gate, take a left down into the valley and follow the signs towards the village. Already here the bluebells will completely surround you and it’s a breathtaking sight! However, please do not leave paths or step on the flowers as they are very fragile. (This includes pets you may walk or like to place for a pose.)

In total – and if you don’t constantly stop and gaze at the flowers for a prolonged time – the walk through the woods to the Wembury Woods bluebells takes around an hour and is relatively easy to do. There are some inclines but nothing dramatic. Sturdy shoes are advised as the path can still be muddy after a rainy day.

Cadgwith Cove, Cornwall

-By Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Cute cottages of Cadgwith Cove, photo by Smudged Postcard

Tucked away on the south east coast of the Lizard Peninsula in the English county of Cornwall is Cadgwith Cove. This little fishing village features a tangle of pretty cottages with flower filled gardens and a smattering of appealing shops and pubs. The village has an attractive pebble beach filled with colourful fishing boats. Wander along the coastal path to discover the Devil’s Frying Pan, a deep hole in the cliffs where a cave collapsed into the sea.

As with much of this hidden corner of Cornwall, Cadgwith Cove does not receive the same volume of visitors as other parts of the county, except during the summer BBQ evenings when the whole village is alive with the sound of locals and visitors enjoying freshly cooked fish. Monkfish and king prawns are particularly delicious and you need to come early as the delicious food sells out very quickly. There’s entertainment on the beach for children and an informal bar for refreshments.

Cadgwith Cove can be reached by car from the airports at Newquay or Exeter. It’s worth exploring some of the other villages as well. Fans of the BBC series Poldark will no doubt recognise some of the dramatic coastline which has made this region such an enjoyable place to visit.

Corfe Castle, Dorset

-By Nesrine from KEVMRC

Corfe Castle, photo by KEVMRC

If you like castles and time travel, you should definitely visit Corfe Castle. Located on the Jurassic Coast, the region that runs along the furthest south of the English Channel coast, Corfe Castle is a very pretty and picturesque village in the famous Dorset county. Corfe Castle is actually the best place to stop for a lovely break if you are visiting the region as it is only a 12 min drive from Old Harry Rocks, and 25 min drive from Durdle Door.

As you may have assumed, there is a castle in the village, and what a castle! It can be seen from miles away as it sits on a hill above the village. There are many different viewpoints from where the ruins can be seen throughout the surrounding area. Of course, you can also visit the monument itself to have a full experience and enjoy a nice view of the village from above.

Besides the castle, Corfe Castle is also famous for the old train station where you can take a steam train! Yes, the steam train still works and you can take it for real! Visiting this train station is definitely a travel in the past as it is exactly how you picture the beginning of the 20th century in England.

Corfe Castle has a lot more to offer. Indeed, the village has very charming streets with beautiful stone houses that make it very attractive.

Ready for your trip to Corfe Castle? Find everything you need to know about the village and prepare for your trip with this guide.

→Book your day trip to the Jurassic Coast from Bournemouth with a stop in Corfe Castle←

Dulwich Village, South London

-By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

The beautiful Dulwich College, photo by 24 Hours Layover

Don’t be fooled by Dulwich Village’s proximity to Central London. Dulwich Village is one of the most quaint English villages and one of the only neighbourhoods in the capital that has managed to hold onto its unique and true village charm. Located in Zone 3 in the London borough of Southwark, Dulwich Village is known for the world-class Dulwich College and the famous Dulwich Picture Gallery built by Sir John Soane, which features paintings by Rembrandt and Reubens, amongst others.

Dulwich Village is an upmarket and exclusive neighbourhood full of upper-class families residing in its many mansions and cottages. Many buildings here are Grade II listed, including the local pub, and there are plenty of independent boutique stores and cafes. There are many green spaces here for families to enjoy such as Dulwich Park and Dulwich Wood. You can also see the only remaining London Tollgate here, just past Dulwich College. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you’re in Dulwich Village.

The easiest way to get there from Central London is to take the train from either London Victoria (arrives at West Dulwich station) or London Bridge (arrives at North Dulwich station). Both routes take around 15 minutes and Dulwich Village is located in between the two stations. Click here to find train times and tickets.

The nearest Underground Station is Brixton however it is almost 2 miles away so you should take the P4 bus from Brixton to Dulwich Village once you get off the tube. There are several other ways to reach Dulwich Village depending on your location, so the best thing to do is to always check the Citymapper app as it will show you the cheapest and fastest way to reach anywhere in London from your current location.

Rye, East Sussex

-By Aimee from Snap Happy Travel

The famous Mermaid Street, Rye

Rye is a quaint market town nestled towards the coast of East Sussex. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Hastings and easily accessible by bus. The poster child for Rye is Mermaid Street with its storybook charm. Mermaid Street is a winding cobbled street with great views of slightly wonky stone and timber houses; reminiscent of a Harry Potter film if you’re into that sort of thing.

Be sure to pop into the coziest pub in prime position on the street for a pint or some afternoon tea; The Mermaid Inn is an amazingly well preserved 15th century pub and inn with a beautifully decorated interior.

There is certainly much more to see and do in Rye than the famous Mermaid Street. Why not stop for a coffee at Cafe des Fleurs on Station Road, or if you fancy the most amazing hot chocolate then you can’t miss Knoops, perfect for a cold winter’s day. For the best view of Rye, climb up the Bell tower of St Mary’s Church to see this historic town in all its glory.

If you have more time why not take a walk out to Camber Sands which is a long stretch of golden sand, a 20-minute walk from Rye. Aim to catch a sunset while you’re there and watch the sky light up with a spectacular show.

→Book your stay at the gorgeous Mermaid Inn←

Alfriston, East Sussex

-By Rick from The Road Is Life

Exploring the beautiful high street of Alfriston

Alfriston is a very small, quintessentially English village in East Sussex surrounded by the incredible natural beauty of the South Downs hills. The village of Alfriston dates back to the Saxon period, making it one of the oldest in the county. It later became a market town in the middle ages and still retains much of its medieval spirit to this day.

A wander down the village’s charming high street is sure to transport you to times gone by. Admire the well preserved timber-framed buildings that line the narrow street and make sure to stop for lunch and a pint at one of the beautiful historic pubs.

The Star Inn makes a good choice for a traditional English pub experience. It dates back to the 15^th century when it served as a shelter for pilgrims making their way to Chichester. Nowadays you can expect to be served delicious pub food and try out some local ales.

Another great option is the George Inn which is a classic old pub on the high street serving up excellent food with a cosy atmosphere. It dates back to the 14^th century when it was the first pub in Alfriston to be granted an Innkeepers licence.

A windy day at the Beachy Head Cliffs

A 20-minute drive south of Alfriston will take you to The Seven Sisters and Beachy Head, a series of chalky white cliffs that will take your breath away with their beauty. A great option for a day trip would be to combine a visit to the cliffs with a lunch stop and an afternoon stroll around Alfriston.

Getting to Alfriston is only a 20 minute drive from Eastbourne or a 30 minute drive from Brighton. If you’re travelling from London, the drive will take up to 2 hours and by train, it’s a 1.5 hour journey.

You can catch the train from London Victoria to Polegate and then catch an 8 minute taxi from there to Alfriston. Click here for more details on train times and tickets.

→Browse accommodation options in Alfriston←

Wye, Kent

-By Ann from The Road Is Life

The Tickled Trout pub sits peacefully next to the Stour River

Wye is a tiny medieval village nestled in the heart of the Kent Downs. This part of England has been named “an area of outstanding natural beauty” as it’s home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Southeast. Located only 1 hour from London by train, the village of Wye makes the perfect day out in Kent for those seeking a peaceful countryside retreat.

The most popular thing to do in Wye is to go for a scenic walk in the hills surrounding the village. There are a number of walks of varying length depending on your preference. Each one offers stunning countryside views and viewpoints that will take your breath away.

An easy walk that only takes 30 minutes begins in the village centre and leads you up to the Wye Memorial Crown in the hills. The view from the top is spectacular. Click here to find more detailed information about hiking around Wye.

A beautiful view of Wye village from the top of the Memorial Crown viewpoint

After you’ve worked up an appetite from all that walking, make your way back to the village for a delicious pub meal. The village of Wye is home to a few of the cutest old English pubs around.

The Tickled Trout is one of the most popular ones, and for good reason. This historic pub is perfectly situated on the edge of the Stour River and has the loveliest outdoor beer garden. Whether you visit during winter or summer, the Tickled Trout is the best pub in Wye for delicious food and post hike pints.

Getting to Wye from London requires catching the train from London’s St Pancras Station to Ashford. You will then get on the train toward Canterbury West and get off at the next stop which is Wye. Click here for more details on train times and tickets.

Planning your trip to England? Read more of our travel guides!

• An amazing one week road trip from London
• The perfect day trip itinerary to Dover from London
• The top 10 day trips to Kent from London
• How to spend a full day in the historic town of Canterbury
• The ultimate day trip from London to Bath itinerary
• The 10 best tours to the Cotswolds from London

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The post 20 Must See Beautiful English Villages appeared first on The Road Is Life.

Feel the ocean breeze on your face as you peer out across the English Channel while standing on top of the stunning White Cliffs, descend into centuries of English history as you wander the medieval corridors of Dover Castle and round the day off with a classic English pub meal before hopping on the train back to London.

Dover is just over an hour from London by train making it the perfect day tripping option for those interested in seeing some of the English countryside in addition to your time spent in London. Read on to discover how to make the most of your epic day trip to Dover!

➤Looking to see the best of Dover with limited time?

Check out this tour that organises every detail of the day for you and includes more famous stops in Kent!

During your stay in London, you should also make sure to check out these epic panoramic views of the London skyline that will leave you speechless and also provide some awesome photo opportunities!

The Perfect Day Trip to Dover from London

For those who prefer to forget about train schedules and maps, taking an organized tour to Dover from London is a great option. Leave the navigating to the pros and enjoy a relaxing day trip through Kent.

Below you will find some of the most highly rated Dover tours that depart daily from London. The tours that we recommend also include a stop in Canterbury to explore the ancient streets and see the incredible Canterbury Cathedral.

If you prefer to take your Dover day trip on your own, skip ahead to the next section where I will walk you through the complete self-guided itinerary from start to finish!

A peek at Dover Castle from the town centre

The Best Dover Tours

Leeds Castle, White Cliffs, and Canterbury Tour – Departing London in the morning, this full day out in Kent will start off at the incredible Leeds Castle followed by a visit to the famous Canterbury Cathedral (one of the oldest cathedrals in England) and a guided tour of the town. Admire the historic buildings as you wander along the cobbled streets of this beautiful old town.

The tour then continues to Dover where you’ll enjoy a scenic coastal stroll along the White Cliffs of Dover. You’ll have plenty of time to take in the beauty of the cliffs and gaze out across the English Channel. Unfortunately this tour doesn’t include a visit to Dover Castle.

This tour includes admission to Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and the White Cliffs. Your tour guide will return you to London in the evening.

→Check prices and availability for this tour←

Dover Castle as seen from above

Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs Tour – Another good option for tours to Dover is this full day trip in Kent which is quite similar to the previously mentioned tour. Either one of these tours is an excellent choice but the only difference is that this one doesn’t include Leeds Castle.

The tour leaves from London in the morning and brings you straight to Canterbury where you have time to explore the stunning Cathedral and take a stroll along the picturesque cobbled streets.

The tour continues with a walk along the White Cliffs of Dover to witness the breath-taking views of the cliffs and look out over the English Channel. Not too far from the cliffs is the incredible Dover Castle where you will spend some time exploring while learning about its significance throughout English history.

This full day Dover tour includes admission to Dover Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and a visit to the White Cliffs.

→Check prices and availability for this tour←

Watching a jousting tournament at Dover Castle

English Heritage Pass

If you’re visiting the UK from overseas, it’s worth having a look at the English Heritage Pass. For a one-time fee, it allows you access to over 100 English Heritage sites including Dover Castle, Stonehenge, Hadrian’s Wall and many more.

If you plan to visit a few sites, I would highly recommend buying this pass as it will end up saving you a bunch of money!

Note: This pass is only available to non-UK residents. Tickets are flexible with free cancellation up to 24-hours before activity starts. Mobile friendly payment and easy on the go booking.

→Find more info about the English Heritage Pass←

Day Trip to Dover from London – Self-Guided Itinerary

How to Get to Dover from London

Train – Trains to Dover from London depart regularly from London’s St. Pancras Station. The quickest way to get there is to take the high-speed Southeastern service that runs toward Ramsgate and get off at Dover Priory Station. The entire journey should take just over 1 hour.

→View train schedules and purchase your tickets online←

You will notice there are cheaper tickets available but these are for slow trains which take much longer and sometimes even require switching trains. To keep things simple and efficient, we recommend just paying a few extra pounds for the high-speed train.

Car – Driving from London to Dover should take just under 2 hours via the M20 depending on current traffic conditions. For full driving directions on Google Maps, click here.

Is it possible to visit the White Cliffs and Dover Castle in the same day?

Yes, it is possible. This is something we wondered before visiting Dover and we were glad that we were able to see both in the same day without feeling rushed. If you’re taking a day trip to Dover from London, you’ll want to make sure you leave early in the morning to make the most of your day.

The best option is to spend the morning walking the White Cliffs, stop for some lunch and then spend your afternoon at Dover Castle. Both attractions are very close to one another so it’s easy to access them both in one day.

A lovely view of Dover town, the White Cliffs and Dover Castle

A Brief History of the White Cliffs

Besides the fact that the White Cliffs are simply stunning, there’s also a deeper meaning behind them. The White Cliffs of Dover hold cultural significance to Britain; they are a national symbol of freedom and hope.

For centuries, the White Cliffs have been the first point of contact for those entering Britain and the last sight of the country for those crossing over the English Channel.

History of the cliffs extends back to the Roman times when Julius Caesar first set foot on the shores of Dover in 55 AD. He made mention of the cliffs by stating “a wild island with giant natural fortification”.

The cliffs have played a part in some of the most important moments in English history. They were a sign of freedom to the British soldiers who were evacuated from the beaches of Dunkirk during WW2.

They’ve been the gateway to England for visiting royalty who would have been greeted at the cliffs and then stayed at Dover Castle. These spectacular White Cliffs have been linked to wars and invasions throughout the ages and it goes without saying that they are a true British icon.

Walking the White Cliffs of Dover

Getting to the White Cliffs – Upon arrival in Dover, you’ll want to start your day off by making your way to the top of the White Cliffs. If you’ve taken the train, you should walk to the Information Centre inside Dover Museum in the town centre which is about 5 minutes away from the station.

You can pop inside for a map with directions or from there, just continue onto Bench Street which takes you toward Dover Port. You will pass through an underpass that runs under a busy road and then reach Marine Parade where you can enjoy a seafront walk.

Keep to the left and you should walk past some houses at the bottom of the cliffs. It won’t take long before you see the path that begins the incline toward the cliffs, just follow the signs.

The view from the path is very scenic and as you make your way up, you’ll see Dover Castle to your left and the ocean to your right.

It should take around 40 minutes to reach the top of the cliffs from the town centre.

Note: There is no bus service that runs from Dover Priory Station to the cliffs. If you choose to get a taxi instead of walking you can expect to pay around £6.

You’ll walk past these houses under the cliffs

Walking along the White Cliffs – You’ll know you’ve made it to the start of the cliffs walk when you reach the White Cliffs of Dover Visitor Centre. This is the perfect place to stop in for refreshments and take a break from all that uphill walking.

The Visitor Centre is where the official path along the edge of the cliffs begins. You will notice that the path diverges and allows you the choice of walking closer to the edge or a bit further inland.

It won’t take long of following the path before you start to see the breath-taking views of the cliffs unfold before your eyes.

As you gaze out across the busy waters of the English Channel, try to imagine all the ships and historic figures these cliffs once welcomed (or in some cases, defended against.) On a clear day, you can even see France in the distance.

→Click here for a downloadable map to help guide you along the cliffs ←

Beginning the walk along the White Cliffs

Things to do at the White Cliffs of Dover

Besides going for a scenic walk, there are a couple of other things to do when visiting the cliffs. If you’re trying to squeeze a visit to Dover Castle in the same day, you probably won’t have time for everything but I will list them here just in case you are interested.

South Foreland Lighthouse – You have the option of walking the full 2 miles (40 mins) along the cliffs until you reach the South Foreland Lighthouse. There has been a lighthouse in this spot since the 14th century.

The current lighthouse has been rebuilt in Victorian times and is open to visitors by guided tour. Incredible views of the cliffs and the channel can be seen from the top. Click here to find more information on tours and activities at the lighthouse.

Mrs Knotts Tearoom – Stop here for home-made soup and sandwiches or tea and cakes at the lighthouse tearoom which is located in the cottage that belonged to the former lighthouse keepers – the Knott family. This lovely vintage style tea-room is perfectly decorated with 1950’s decor.

Cliff walk, you can see the lighthouse in the distance

Fan Bay Deep Shelter – Explore the network of WWII tunnels that exist deep within the White Cliffs of Dover. These tunnels date back to the 1940s when they served as accommodation for the soldiers who operated the gun battery on the cliffs above.

The tunnels are located on the cliffs near the South Foreland Lighthouse, see map below. Guided tours will take you all the way down (70 ft underground) through the tunnels where you will see the walls covered with wartime graffiti and listen to the fascinating stories told by your guide.

This guided tour operates every 30 minutes during the spring and summer months, visit this website to find more details. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the tunnels on a first come first serve basis. Tunnel tours are not recommended for those who feel claustrophobic in tight spaces.

South Foreland Lighthouse

Visiting Dover Castle

One of Britain’s most impressive and iconic fortresses, Dover Castle dates back to the 11th century and has played a significant defence role to England over the centuries. Of all the castles we visited in England, this one has to be the most epic!

For over 800 years, this castle has dominated the cliffs of Dover, defending the realm of England from invasions and wars. The original castle was established by William the Conqueror in the year 1066 and later expanded and remodelled by King Henry II in 1180 who added the great tower and other features that are still intact today.

Medieval vibes at Dover Castle

A network of underground tunnels were added to defend against two sieges in the middle ages and then additional tunnels were built into the cliffs to defend against French invasions during the Napoleonic times.

During the WW2 years, these Napoleonic tunnels were used once again to house the command centre for naval operations on the English Channel. They later extended the tunnels to make room for a hospital to treat injured troops.

All of these tunnels are open to visitors and are an excellent passage through time to see what life was like during the wars.

Dover Castle Tickets

Buying Dover Castle tickets is quick and easy to do online. If you’ve already purchased the English Heritage Pass, don’t worry about buying tickets because entrance to Dover Castle is included in the pass.

We decided to buy our tickets online from this website and we were happy with how easy and convenient it was to do on the go. This way, you get instant confirmation and you don’t have to print out your ticket because mobile vouchers are accepted.

→Click here to buy your Dover Castle tickets online←

Things to do at Dover Castle

There is truly so much to see at Dover Castle, you could make an entire day of your visit if you wish to. Seeing as you don’t have that kind of time, it’s best to pick a few of these activities.

When we visited, we watched a jousting tournament, spent some time at the Great Tower and then took a walk through the medieval tunnels. As we only had a few hours to spend, we sadly couldn’t see it all and a trip back is definitely in order!

Tickets: £23.97/Adult, £14.57/Child

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm daily

Getting comfortable on King Henry II’s throne

The medieval banquet hall

King Henry II’s orb and sceptre

The Great Tower – Take a step back in time as you explore the great tower that was built by King Henry II in the 1180’s. This lavish medieval palace would have welcomed royalty and important visitors, it was designed to impress.

All 3 floors of the tower have rooms that are fully furnished and decorated to recreate a 12th century palace. Take a seat on King Henry II’s throne and wander through the chambers where he once slept.

Make sure to climb the spiral staircase to the very top of the tower where epic views over the surrounding countryside can be seen. Visiting the great tower was the highlight of our day trip to Dover!

Medieval Tunnels – Descend into the maze of medieval tunnels below the castle complete with canons to defend against invasions. Get a feel for what life would have been like during a siege.

Medieval Tunnels

Underground Hospital – Take a tour of the underground hospital complex deep within the White Cliffs to experience life as a wounded solider during WWII. Check out the recreated scenes and follow the story of an injured pilot who was fighting for his life in that very hospital in the 1940’s.

Secret Wartime Tunnels – One of the most dramatic moments in English history was planned out in the secret tunnels below Dover Castle. Operation Dynamo was organized within those very tunnels.

Operation Dynamo was the epic rescue operation of the British troops from the beaches of Dunkirk, which took place during WWII in 1940. Visit the actual tunnels where the plans to execute the operation unfolded. Watch as the special effects and real footage bring this incredible rescue to life.

Roman Lighthouse – Long before there was ever a castle in Dover, the Romans built a lighthouse on the very hilltop where the castle would later be built. Dating back to the year 43 AD, this lighthouse was constructed to help guide their ships into the harbour.

This incredibly well-preserved lighthouse happens to be the oldest of its kind still standing in England. You can find it within the castle walls, next to the beautifully restored Anglo-Saxon church.

King Henry II’s bedroom

The Great Tower

PWRR Museum – Discover the official museum of the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment. Here, you will learn the history of royal regiments since the 16th century. There are fascinating artifacts on display including a scarf that was once owned by Queen Victoria. You can find this museum in the castle’s Keep Yard next to the Great Tower.

Restaurants and Cafés – There are a number of places to stop and refuel around the castle grounds. If you’re looking for lunch, try the NAAFI Restaurant which was once used by the soldiers stationed at Dover. If you’re looking for a coffee break, check out the Great Tower café which serves snacks, treats and also hot meals.

Events at Dover Castle – Throughout the year, Dover Castle holds many events and activities. When we visited, we watched a jousting tournament take place one the castle grounds which was very cool! Click here to browse any upcoming events that might interest you.

Watching a jousting tournament at Dover Castle

Dover Museum

If you’re only planning to spend one day in Dover, it’s likely that you won’t have time left over for the Dover Museum. If you happen to have any extra time here, it is well worth checking out for any history lovers out there.

One of the oldest museums in Kent, Dover Museum dates back to the 1800’s. You can learn about Dover’s history spanning all the way back to the Stone Age, the Anglo-Saxon era and even the Roman times. The museum showcases Dover’s history as a port town through the medieval times with a fascinating collection of artefacts on display.

One of the most impressive features of Dover Museum is the Bronze Age Boat – the world’s oldest known sea faring boat. This incredible prehistoric boat was discovered in 1992 by construction workers when they were building a road near Dover.

A beautiful view of Dover Castle from the path up to the White Cliffs

Archaeologists determined it would have been used during the Bronze Age around the year 1,500 BC making this boat roughly 3,500 years old!! This remarkable discovery was internationally recognized as it is currently the oldest boat on record.

Tickets – Free

Opening Hours – 1 Oct –  31 March: Mon – Sat: 9.30am – 5pm

1 April –  30 Sept: Mon – Sat 9.30am – 5pm & Sun: 10am-3pm

Best Historic Pub in Dover

The White Horse – There is no better way to round off a full day of sightseeing than digging into a proper British pub meal for dinner. Dover’s #1 historic pub can be found at the bottom of the hill just outside of Dover Castle grounds.

The building itself dates back to the year 1365 when records show that the cellar was used as a morgue. Stop in here to enjoy a traditional home cooked meal and a pint after long day of sightseeing.

This is where we stopped for food and drinks during our day trip in Dover and we really enjoyed this place.

Exploring the medieval kitchen at Dover Castle

What to Pack for your Day Trip to Dover

Wind Breaker – The cliffs are open to visitors year round and seeing as they are situated right on the ocean, you can expect it to be windy no matter what time of year you visit. If you visit during spring or summer, you won’t need a heavy jacket but something light to keep you protected from the wind or potential shower.

• Women’s windbreaker 
• Men’s windbreaker

Winter Coat – This is a must when visiting between the months of October – March. England is obviously cold during these months and even colder when you’re stood on the edge of a windy cliff near the ocean. A proper winter coat is definitely necessary during these months.

• Women’s winter coat
• Men’s winter coat

An epic view from the top of the Great Tower

Good Walking Shoes – You’ll be doing a ton of walking on your day trip to Dover, it’s important to have some comfortable shoes that make the long day of walking a breeze. I would suggest bringing a sturdy pair of walking shoes.

• Men’s walking shoes
• Women’s walking shoes

Water Bottle – We did our day trip to Dover in July, it was roasting hot that day (even in the wind). I actually forgot to bring my water bottle for the long walk over the cliffs, don’t make this same mistake! As you will be walking for quite a while, this is not something you want to forget (especially in the summer!)

Day Pack – You’ll be spending a full day away from London and will definitely need to bring a bag to store your belongings for the day. I recommend something compact and spacious but not too big. I love this backpack because it packs up into a small size and it’s super lightweight – perfect for day trips.

Camera – You simply cannot visit the White Cliffs or Dover Castle without a camera in hand! Click here to check out the camera that we use for all of our travel photography. We’ve had this camera for 4 years now (no, it’s not the newest one on the market) but it’s reliable, and it takes good quality photos. If you’re looking to get into travel photography, it’s the perfect entry level SLR.

You might also need: Sunglasses and a windproof umbrella (It’s England, I’ve learned to never leave home without one).

Where to Stay in Dover

If you’re tired and not keen on making the journey back to London at the end of a long day, you can find all the best available accommodations in Dover below.

►Browse accommodation options in Dover◄

Read More About England Travel

• Day Trip to Canterbury from London – Complete 1 Day Itinerary
• 10 Awesome Ways to Spend a Day Out in Kent
• The Best Tours to the Cotswolds from London
• Top 10 Things to do in Ashford
• 20 Most Beautiful Villages in England
• An Epic One Week Road Trip from London

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After having spent the last 2.5 years of my life in Ashford, Kent, I’ve been able to slowly tick all of these awesome experiences off my bucket list. Kent is full of exciting history, it’s home to some of England’s oldest towns and churches, it’s known as the ‘Garden of England’ (thanks to King Henry VIII who first used the phrase) and it has a stunning coastline – the iconic White Cliffs of Dover.

There is truly so much beauty to be discovered in this part of England and it’s all conveniently located within close proximity to London by train! I’ve put together a list of some of my all-time favourite day trips from London to Kent. These fun days out in Kent are all easily accessible if you’re traveling from London or anywhere in the Southeast area.

The beautiful Westgate Gardens of Canterbury

The 10 Most Epic Days Out In Kent

Canterbury

One of England’s oldest towns, the history of Canterbury dates all the way back to the Roman times in the 1st century AD when a fortified Roman town was built in the area. Recent discoveries have found ancient artefacts from old buildings which are now on display at the Roman Museum in Canterbury.

Today, Canterbury’s town centre is full of picturesque streets lined with historic buildings from the Tudor era. It’s easy to spend a day getting lost down the charming cobbled lanes and finding endless beautiful old pubs just calling you in off the street.

Being only 15 minutes by train from Ashford, I spent my fair share of time exploring this lovely town, each time finding a different old pub or another unique angle to photograph. It’s no surprise that visiting Canterbury is my favourite of all the days out in Kent!

A peek at Canterbury Cathedral from Butchery Lane

Highlights of Canterbury

River Cruise – One of the most popular things to do on a day trip to Canterbury is taking a historic river cruise along the canals that run through the town. Escape the busy town centre and learn all about the history of Canterbury from an experienced local guide. You’ll get a unique angle of some of the town’s most iconic old buildings while enjoying a relaxing 40 minute journey through time.

Hours of Operation: River cruises run throughout the high season from April 1st to November 7th from 10am – 5pm daily. You can find the staff located on Kings Bridge on the high street next to the Old Weaver’s House. They operate on a first come first serve basis so you can either show up on the day or book your river cruise ticket in advance. If you wish to find more information about prices and booking ahead, click here.

Canterbury Cathedral – Dating back to the year 597 when St. Augustine first landed on the shores of England as a missionary sent from Rome, Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest and most iconic Cathedrals in England! The history of this magnificent old church is so fascinating and the inside of the building is truly an impressive sight.

During your visit you’ll wander passed the Shrine of Thomas Becket, stroll through the Romanesque crypt, explore the beautiful Cathedral gardens and admire the medieval stained-glass windows.

The Cathedral has gone through many changes over the centuries and as of today it has been under renovation since I first arrived in England in 2017. Scaffolding surrounds the church, sadly ruining any photographs from the outside but don’t worry! This does not prevent tourists from visiting the inside.

Opening Hours and Tickets: The cathedral is open daily, click here for visiting times. Canterbury Cathedral tickets cost £12.50 per adult and £8.50 per child.

A look inside the incredible Canterbury Cathedral

Historic Pubs – My favourite thing to do when visiting Canterbury is checking out all the epic old pubs the town has to offer. There really is no shortage and each old pub is just as quaint as the next! Coming from Canada, old English pubs really are a novelty for me that never wore off.

The Parrot – Hidden away down a cute side street, The Parrot is the oldest pub in Canterbury dating back to the year 1370! Stepping into this historic building really feels like you’re taking a step back in time. It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch to break up your busy day trip.

They’ve got a lovely patio at the back which is great for sipping pints on a sunny summer’s afternoon. If you visit during winter, there’s a fireplace and a cozy interior to escape from the cold.

Some other old pubs worth checking out are: The Bishops Finger, The Old Buttermarket, The Dolphin, The Shakespeare.

Classic Canterbury Walking Tour – Familiarize yourself with Canterbury by taking a small group walking tour. This popular 1.5 hr guided tour will bring you on a journey through Canterbury’s 2,000 years of history. An experienced local guide will walk you through the highlights of the town, stopping at the most popular attractions and a few hidden gems along the way.

The tour passes by the medieval Westgate, the Marlowe Theatre, the Christ Church Gate, St. Thomas of Canterbury Church and many more fascinating historic landmarks. This tour operates at several times every weekend and caps numbers at 10 people per tour. Note that entrance to attractions is not included in the ticket price.

→Click here to book the Classic Canterbury Walking Tour←

Take a scenic river cruise along the canals of Canterbury

Getting from London to Canterbury

Train – The train to Canterbury runs daily and departs from London’s St. Pancras Station. The journey takes one hour. Click here to view train times and purchase tickets.

Car – The drive from London to Canterbury takes on average 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. For full driving directions click here.

The Best Canterbury Tour – If you love the idea of not stressing about train times or being stuck in traffic behind the wheel, an organized tour might be just the thing for you. This highly rated tour of Kent will depart London in the morning and set out to explore the beautiful White Cliffs of Dover.

After a scenic coastal stroll, the tour carries on to Canterbury and begins with a guided walking tour of the town. The tour allows for a total of 2.5 hours to spend in Canterbury. It includes time to visit the Cathedral, explore the town at your own leisure and stop for lunch before heading back to London.

→Book the White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury full day tour←

Canterbury has an endless amount of awesome sights to see, if you fancy spending the night instead of making the trek back to London in the evening, find the best hotels in Canterbury by clicking the link below.

→Click here to browse the best accommodation options in Canterbury←

Dover

Dover has been the gateway from the continent of Europe to England since the beginning of time. Due to its location on the English Channel, Dover has been a major port and played a significant role as defence throughout England’s history in the wars and invasions.

From the year 55 AD when Julius Caesar first arrived in Dover to the 11th century invasions of William the Conqueror, all the way up to Hitler’s planned invasions of Britain in World War II; Dover has always been a target.

Nowadays, Dover is the busiest ferry terminal in the world as well as being one of the most important ports in Britain for freight items such as fresh produce. It attracts tourists from far and wide to witness the beauty of its White Cliffs and its beautifully preserved 11th century hilltop castle.

Visiting Dover is an exciting and fun day out in Kent. I recommend starting your day at the White Cliffs of Dover and then making your way to Dover Castle in the afternoon. It is possible to fit both attractions into one day trip as this is what we did when we visited.

Exploring the amazing Dover Castle

Highlights of Dover

White Cliffs of Dover – When you hear of Dover, it’s the striking white cliffs that most likely come to mind and for good reason. There aren’t many other places in this world that you can find such a magnificent sight of chalky white cliffs against a blue ocean backdrop with bright green grass; it’s like a painting!

Enjoy a scenic coastal walk on the path that runs along the cliffs starting from the Visitor’s Centre. Take in the spectacular views as you follow the edge of the cliffs, on a clear day you can even see France in the distance.

You have the option to walk 2 miles along the path until you reach the 19th century South Foreland Lighthouse and a tea house. But it’s not necessary to go that far to catch the best views of the cliffs.

The Visitor’s Centre at the beginning of the walk also sells teas, coffee and food in case you’ve walked up an appetite by the time you finish the hike.

Click here for a downloadable map that will help guide you along the cliffs!

Dover Castle – One of the most impressive and largest castles in all of England, Dover Castle’s history extends back to the year 1066 when William the Conqueror settled in the area and built the first castle. In 1180s, King Henry II expanded and remodelled the existing castle to the building that still stands today, over 800 years later.

Due to its strategic location, the castle’s main purpose was to serve as defence. It truly stood the test of time having been held under 2 sieges during the medieval years and surviving through 2 world wars in its later years.

Visiting Dover Castle can easily take up to 4 hours as there really is so much to see. Explore the inside of the Great Tower and admire the fully furnished medieval chambers. Panoramic views from the top are sure to impress.

Here’s Rick chilling on King Henry II’s throne – Don’t get too comfortable there mate!

Descend into the medieval tunnels beneath the castle that were once used for defence during the sieges. Make sure to check out the underground hospital that was used for injured troops during World War II.

Dover Castle frequently holds fun events throughout the year. When we visited in the summer, we were excited to find a jousting tournament taking place on the castle grounds. Click here to find an event that might interest you.

Tickets: £20.90/Adult, £12.50/Child. Save time and purchase your ticket online before visiting.

Opening Hours: 10am-5pm daily

→Buy your tickets to Dover Castle here←

Medieval vibes at Dover Castle

Getting from London to Dover

Train – Trains depart daily from London’s St. Pancras Station. The high-speed rail service takes just over an hour to get from London to Dover. Click here to search train times and buy your tickets.

Car – The drive from London should take just under 2 hours depending on traffic conditions. For full driving directions click here.

The Best Dover Tour – Enjoy a fully organized day trip to Dover, leaving London in the morning and stopping first at the Canterbury Cathedral. Afterwards, you will continue to the White Cliffs of Dover where you will take a coastal walk and admire the gorgeous cliffs and the epic views over the English Channel. The tour continues on to Dover Castle where you will spend the rest of the day diving into centuries of English history.

This guided tour includes entrance to the Canterbury Cathedral, a visit to The White Cliffs and entrance to Dover Castle as well as round-trip transportation by a luxury coach.

→Book the full day tour of Kent←

Watching a Jousting Tournament at Dover Castle

If you don’t feel like rushing back to London after a long day of explorations, check out some of Dover’s finest accommodation options below.

→Click here to browse the best accommodation options in Dover←

Kent Winery Tour

Wine touring in the English countryside isn’t often an activity that comes to mind. If you’re a wine lover, this is the perfect option for a fun-filled day out with friends! Spend a relaxing day sipping award-winning English wines surrounded by stunning countryside views.

The tour departs at 9am from London Bridge Station. This wine tour is led by experienced guides who will teach you all about the history of English wine throughout the day. The journey to Kent will take you through some picturesque landscapes and cute little villages.

The first stop of the day will take you on a guided tour through the Chapel Down winery where you will learn all about the traditional process of making sparkling wine. This will be followed by a tasting session and the chance to relax with a drink of choice.

The tour will then continue on to a traditional, award winning English pub where you will stop for a classic pub lunch including wine. Your lunch is included in the price of the tour ticket.

The final stop of the day will bring you to the Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard, where you will tour the beautiful grounds and learn the history behind the wine making process. There will be a guided tasting where you can sample all the estate’s delicious wines and then have time to relax and socialize. The tour lasts about 8 hours long and returns you to London Bridge Station at the end of the day.

→Book the Full-Day Kent Winery Tour←

Hever Castle & Gardens

Another one of my top picks for fun days out in Kent is the stunning Hever Castle and Gardens. This 13th century double-moated Tudor style castle is famously known as Anne Boleyn’s childhood home. It’s located near Edenbridge, Kent which is a convenient 40 minute journey from London by train.

Hever Castle has been home to over 13 different families since it was first built in the year 1270. Initially built as a defensive medieval castle, it became home to one of the most powerful families in England during the 15th and 16th centuries, the Boleyns. It is said that King Henry VIII stayed at Hever Castle a number of times during his courtship with Anne Boleyn.

A visit to Hever Castle can take up to 4 hours in total, there is a lot to see here!

A winter’s day at Hever Castle

Highlights of Hever Castle

Hever Castle – The castle’s beautifully decorated interior is fully furnished with tapestries, antiques and a large collection of Tudor portraits. It’s easy to spend up to an hour inside the castle admiring the fine details and absorbing all the fascinating Tudor history. You’ll even find life sized statues of King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn.

Tickets – £17.75/adult, £9.95/child; Includes entry to both castle and gardens.

Opening Hours – 10:30am–4:30pm daily. Hours may vary depending on seasons, click here for more details.

 →Buy Tickets to Hever Castle Online at a Discounted Price←

Hever Gardens – Hever Castle is surrounded by a series of majestic gardens featuring sculptures, ponds, fountains, grottoes and even a man-made lake! These gardens were originally built between 1904 and 1908 by William Waldorf Astor who bought the castle in 1903. Before this, only a small garden existed around the castle walls.

You will have the option of exploring a number of elaborate gardens on your day trip to Hever Castle. The Italian Garden features impressive sculptures inspired by the Trevi Fountain in Rome as well as a lake. The Rose Garden is a classic English garden featuring over 4,000 roses in a variety of different colours.

The Tudor Gardens are a series of simple gardens consistent to the Tudor time period and arranged as they might have been during the time the Boleyns lived at Hever Castle. The Blue Garden, like its name suggests, features a lovely selection of pretty blue flowers among a rock garden.

If you wish to see the flowers in full bloom, you must visit during the spring and summer months but no matter what time of year you choose, these gardens are simply stunning. We visited in February and thoroughly enjoyed our time wandering around the gardens, admiring the beautiful scenery.

Lovely fountain in the Italian Garden at Hever Castle

King Henry VIII Pub – Once you’ve enjoyed your day at the castle and gardens, head straight over to the historic King Henry VIII Pub which is conveniently located at the entrance to the castle grounds. A pub has stood in that location since 1597!

This quintessential Tudor style pub is the perfect place to unwind and sample from a range of Kentish ales along with traditional English pub meals. Warm up indoors by the fire if you visit during the winter or sit out in the beer garden on a sunny afternoon during the summer.

Luxury B&B – For a unique and memorable experience, you have the option to spend a night inside Hever Castle! The bed and breakfast is located in the Astor Wing and Anne Boleyn Wing of the castle which is separate from the visitor’s section. Breakfast and lunch are served at the Moat Restaurant and access to the castle and gardens is included in the bed and breakfast rate.

With an excellent rating of 9.5 on Booking.com, this is truly an experience you will never forget!

→Book your stay at Hever Castle Luxury B&B←

Getting From London to Hever Castle

Train – Trains to Hever Castle depart regularly from London’s Victoria Station. The journey usually requires switching trains at East Croyden before getting off at Hever Station.

If you choose to travel by train, note that it does involve 20 minutes of walking to the castle once you reach Hever Station. Click here to see the train schedule and purchase tickets.

Alternatively, you can take the Southeastern train to Edenbridge Station which also requires switching trains at Oxted and then take a taxi for a few miles to the castle.

Car – Driving from London to Hever Castle will take 1 hour and 15 minutes on average travelling via the M25. Click here for driving directions.

Leeds Castle

One of England’s most beautiful and famous castles, built on an island in the middle of a lake surrounded by the peaceful nature of the English countryside. The setting of Leeds Castle could not be more picturesque, it’s a true fairy tale castle! A visit to Leeds Castle makes an awesome day out in Kent for the whole family or a perfect romantic getaway for two.

A castle has existed in that spot since the year 1119 (this year, Leeds Castle celebrates its 900th anniversary!). Over the years it has been a Norman fortress, a Tudor Palace that was once home to King Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon, the residence of 6 of England’s Queens and more recently, a private home to a wealthy heiress.

Nowadays it is open to the public and welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors per year. Discover over 900 years of English history at the spectacular Leeds Castle!

Experience the breath taking beauty of Leeds Castle

Highlights of Leeds Castle

The Gatehouse Exhibition – Located inside the castle’s Gatehouse, this exhibition will take you through the complete history of Leeds Castle. Learn how the castle has changed over the centuries and explore the beautifully furnished rooms full of antiques and ancient paintings.

Dog Collar Museum – A beautiful collection of historic dog collars dating from the 15th – 19th centuries. Over 130 collars are on display making it the largest collection of ancient dog collars in the world!

Punting – Admire the castle from a different perspective and enjoy a guided tour in traditional punting style around the moat. This activity runs daily from April – September, weekends only in October. Price: £7 each.

Maze & Grotto – Enjoy getting lost in the epic maze of 2,400 yew trees and try to find your way to the centre where you’ll descend into an underground grotto full of mythical creatures that leads you back to reality.

Leeds Castle Library

Birds of Prey Centre – Home to a variety of bird species on display near the maze. From April to September there are daily shows featuring Hawks, Falcons and Owls. From October to March they run from 2pm only on weekends and school holidays.

Stable Courtyard – What could be more romantic than spending a night in a castle this beautiful? This luxury accommodation experience also includes free entry to Leeds Castle! Surrounded by picturesque gardens and beautiful countryside, this is the perfect idea for a romantic weekend escape.

Click here for more information and to book your stay at the Stable Courtyard. If there is no availability check out the Leeds Castle Holiday Cottages. Note – these accommodations are very popular and are often booked out many months in advance!

Tickets – £26/adult, child/£17.50

Opening Hours – 10.30am – 4.00pm October to March, 10.30am – 5.30pm April to September

→Buy Tickets to Leeds Castle Online at a Discounted Price←

Getting From London to Leeds Castle

Train – The quickest way to travel to Leeds Castle from London via train is to take the Southeastern line from London Victoria Station to Bearsted Station. Click here to see the train schedule and book your tickets online.

From there you can catch a shuttle service to Leeds Castle that runs daily from April to September. A private shuttle service is available on demand during the winter months, click here for more details.

Car – The driving route from London to Leeds Castle will take on average 1.5 hours. Click here for full driving directions or put the postcode ME17 1RG into your Sat Nav.

The Best Leeds Castle Tour – This popular full day tour from London begins at Leeds Castle first thing in the morning before the castle is opened up to the public. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to take great photos without hordes of other tourists to complete with. You will also have time to explore the castle grounds and take in the serene views over the lake.

The day trip will continue through the Kent countryside toward Dover where you will get to admire breath-taking views of the iconic White Cliffs as well as views of the dominating Dover Castle nearby. The afternoon will take you to Canterbury where you will take a guided tour of the Canterbury Cathedral followed by a chance to explore the ancient cobbled streets of the town.

After that, you will take a guided tour through the lovely gardens and parks of Greenwich and see the famous Cutty Sark. End the day with a Thames River cruise which sails past many iconic sites and finishes up at the center of London.

→Book your Leeds Castle – Canterbury – Dover – Greenwich – London tour here!←

Bodiam Castle

Bodiam Castle isn’t technically in Kent, but it’s so close it might as well be! It’s located on the border of East Sussex and Kent and can be reached from London in a day. I’ve decided to include it because it was one most beautiful and less touristy castles that we’ve visited in England.

Everyone knows Leeds Castle and Dover Castle but have you even heard of Bodiam Castle?! Call me crazy but I personally hadn’t until I moved to England. This hidden gem is tucked away in a lovely rural setting, surrounded by a large moat.

There’s just something about this place that transports you back in time. I could just picture the knights in shining armour galloping out of the woods at any given moment.

Admiring the beautiful Bodiam Castle

Highlights of Bodiam Castle

Bodiam Castle – The castle was built in 1385 by Edward Dalyngrigge, one of King Edward VIII’s knights. The purpose of the castle was to protect the area from potential French invasions during the The Hundred Years War.

Sadly, the interior of the castle was neglected and fell to ruins during the 17th and 18th centuries. You can still explore the inside and see the layout of where each room would have been.

Make sure to climb the medieval spiral staircase up the towers where a panoramic view over the countryside awaits at the top.

Events at Bodiam Castle – Bodiam Castle frequently holds fun events throughout the year. Why not try your hand at ancient archery for £3? Or maybe take the kids to see Santa at the castle? There are many seasonal events that take place year-round at Bodiam Castle and make the perfect day out in Kent. Click here to find an event that might interest you.

Steam Train – Take a ride through the Kent countryside on the gorgeous old Victorian steam train that runs between the towns of Bodiam and Tenterden. Trains depart from the station located conveniently just outside of the castle grounds. Click here for information on timetables, tickets and availability.

Bodiam Castle Opening Hours – 11am – 5pm daily

Bodiam Castle Tickets – £10.80 per adult, £5.40 per child. Tickets can be purchased on site.

When you find your knight in shining armour at Bodiam Castle

Getting From London to Bodiam Castle

Train – Travelling to Bodiam Castle via train will involve a few extra steps however it is still possible to do. Board the Southeastern train from the London Bridge Station to Battle Station.

From there, you can catch a taxi from the taxi rank just outside of the station. The ride is about 15 minutes from the train station to Bodiam Castle. Click here to see train times and purchase your tickets.

Car – Driving is definitely the most convenient way to go and should take about 1.5 hours through the pretty countryside. There is plenty of parking available at the castle for a fee. Find Google Maps directions here.

Found some cute ducks too!

Rochester

Rich in history, the lovely town of Rochester sits peacefully on the River Medway protected by its well-preserved imposing Norman fortress that has stood the test of time. The town dates back to the days of the Norman invasions in the 11th century when Rochester Castle was first built.

Rochester Cathedral is also a fine example of Norman and early Gothic architecture and happens to be the 2nd oldest cathedral in Britain. You can also expect to find many Charles Dickens references around the town as this is one of Rochester’s most famous connections. Dickens spent part of his life in the area and makes references to Rochester in some of his work.

Rochester is easily accessible from London by train in under 1 hour making it another excellent choice when it comes to days out in Kent. There are plenty of fascinating historic sites to explore and an incredibly picturesque High Street lined with beautiful buildings, old pubs, antique shops and cute cafes.

Rochester’s pretty high street

Highlights of Rochester

Rochester Castle – Dating back to the year 1088, this impressive piece of Norman architecture has survived through sieges, wars, and invasions – it’s a true wonder this castle is still standing in once piece! That’s what makes Rochester Castle so unique and impressive.

Strategically positioned on the shores of the River Medway, Rochester Castle has protected this important river crossing throughout the centuries. The 12th century castle keep that dominates the skyline is the tallest of its kind to survive in Britain and a remarkable model of medieval architecture.

While there is no museum at the site of the castle, audio guides are available to hire for £1.

Tickets – £6.40/adult, £4.00/child – tickets can be purchased on site.

Opening Times – 10am – 4pm daily

Rochester Castle

Rochester Cathedral – Just across the street from the castle, make your way over to the beautiful Rochester Cathedral. This massive cathedral dates back to the 7th century however the building that stands today is mostly from the 12th and 13th centuries.

You can still see remains of the original Norman structure blended seamlessly with the Gothic style architecture of the rest of the cathedral.

Rochester High Street – Take a leisurely wander down the High Street of Rochester and admire the historic buildings as you make your way along. Buildings range from the Tudor time period to the 18th century. Full of character and vibrant colours, this quintessential English High Street is truly a postcard perfect scene!

Rochester Guildhall Museum – Along the High Street you’ll come across the Guildhall Museum which takes you through the history of the Medway area covering the Roman times, the medieval period, through to the Victorian era.

This gorgeous 17th century building which is an attraction in itself features stunning interiors of detailed ceilings, chandeliers and historic paintings. Inside you can see Roman artefacts, a model of Rochester Castle during a siege, a room dedicated to Charles Dickens, a model of a 19th century prison ship and much more!

The impressive Rochester Cathedral

Getting From London to Rochester

Train – Direct trains from London’s St. Pancras Station to Rochester depart regularly. You’ll want to catch the Southeastern service that runs toward Broadstairs and get off at Rochester which takes 1 hour total. Click here for timetables and tickets.

Car – The drive from London to Rochester is pretty straightforward and shouldn’t take longer than 1.5 hours but obviously depends on current traffic conditions. Driving directions can be found here.

Wye

Wye is a pretty little countryside village nestled among the rolling hills of the Kent Downs. The village itself is only small but the natural beauty that surrounds it is what makes this place the perfect escape for those seeking some peace and quiet from the city.

Wye is located on the outskirts of Ashford and only 6 minutes away from the town by train. Over the years that we’ve spent living in Ashford, we’ve always enjoyed visiting Wye to go for walks in the hills and check out the cute pubs around the town.

The picturesque setting of the Tickled Trout Pub on the Stour River

Highlights of Wye

Wye Hikes – Whether you’re after a short or long hike, Wye has an option for everyone! The following hikes/viewpoints are easy to get to following footpaths with signage pointing you in the right directions. I’ve also added links to maps with more detailed directions!

Long Hike – Devils Kneading Trough: A popular spot in the Kent Downs with spectacular views over the countryside and even the coastline. This dramatic valley is often described as the most beautiful spot in Kent.

There is a circular 5-mile hike that starts and finishes at St Gregory Church in Wye’s town centre. The hike takes 2.5 hours and it passes through the Devils Kneading Trough viewpoint as well as the Wye Memorial Crown viewpoint. For a complete route with detailed directions click here! 

Short Hike – Wye Memorial Crown: If you’ve ever passed through Wye on the train, you might have noticed the massive white crown on the hillside above the village. To celebrate the coronation of King Edward II in 1902, students from a local agricultural college decided to carve the giant crown into the hillside using barrels of chalk, which to this day is a really impressive sight!

A beautiful view from the Memorial Crown lookout

The hike up to the crown is 1.4 miles from the town centre and only takes 35 mins. There are signs directing you along the path but full directions can also be found here on Google maps. You can also check out this website for an overview of the hike and more directions on how to get there.

Panoramic views of Wye surrounded by a patchwork of green fields will reward you once you reach the top. Take note of the hollowed-out pits in the hill above the crown, this is thought to be a 1000-year-old iron mine.

St Gregory and St Martin’s Church – The history of Wye extends way back to the Roman times and a church has stood in the same spot since the days of the Norman invasions. In the 15th century, the church was totally rebuilt by the Archbishop of Canterbury and then later turned into a college to train priests.

Tickled Trout Pub – There is no better place to relax post hike than the Tickled Trout! Once you finish your hike and return to town, you’ll most likely have worked up an appetite. Head straight over to this quaint old pub on the river’s edge for some lunch and a few pints.

There has been a pub in this spot for over 400 years! We have eaten here many times and the food is always delicious and the old-world atmosphere is so charming. There is a patio next to the river which is the perfect spot for sipping pints in the sun on a warm summer’s day. If you visit during winter, the fire inside the pub will warm you up.

Other Wye Pubs – Inside the town centre there are a few other nice old pubs worth checking out if you have time. The Flying Horse is a popular traditional inn and pub in a 17th century building with a lovely outdoor seating area. On top of the delicious food, they also offer highly rated accommodation. Click here to check out their beautiful rooms if you’re interested in staying the night!

The Kings Head is another pub in town worth stopping at for drinks and snacks. The cosy interior is a great place to relax and taste from a large selection of wines, beers and spirits.

Getting From London to Wye

Train – To get from London to Wye you will have to catch the Southeasten train from St. Pancras Station to Ashford. From there, get on the train toward Canterbury West and get off at Wye. The journey will be about 1 hour in total, click here for timetables and tickets.

Car – The drive should take around 1.5 hour depending on traffic. Find full driving directions here.

Stunning landscapes of the Devils Kneading Trough

Port Lympne Safari Park

A safari in the English countryside? Yes, you read that right! The Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is a wildlife park located just under 2 hours south of London. This is not just another zoo. You will be taken on an adventure through the park in a safari truck to see over 700 endangered animal species including bears, rhinos, lions, tigers, and gorillas! (Plus many, many more!)

Visiting Port Lympne Safari Park is such a unique and great experience and it makes a fantastic idea for fun-filled family days out in Kent.

Tickets – £23.50/adult or book online and pay £20/adult

Opening Hours – Open daily from 9:30am – 6:30pm

Highlights of Port Lympne Safari Park

Safari Park – An authentic safari experience will take you through the 600-acre park where you can enjoy watching the animals roam freely throughout the peaceful countryside setting. Among the animals you will get to see Kent’s only giraffes as well as the largest herd of black rhino in the UK!

Tickets purchased help to fund the care of the animals at the park as well as contribute to conservation projects worldwide. Click here to find out more about how your visit helps.

Dinosaur Forest – Make sure to check out Europe’s largest collection of life-sized dinosaurs at the Dinosaur Forest. The Dinosaurs are brought to life by using a virtual reality app which is sure to be a huge highlight for kids.

Accommodation – Port Lympne Safari Park offers a variety of unique lodging options which make an awesome idea for a short break. Choose from staying in a tree house with epic views, the lion lodge where you can wake up to a lion at your window or the bubble which has transparent walls and gives you a 180-degree view over the park! Click here for more information and view more accommodation options.

→Click here for more info on everything Port Lympne Safari Park has to offer!←

Getting From London to Port Lympne Safari Park

Train – Take the train from London’s St Pancras Station toward Margate and get off at Ashford. From Ashford’s domestic side of the train station, catch the number 10 bus that runs toward Folkestone. Get off at the Industrial Estate stop which is a 10 minute walk from the reserve. Click here for timetables and tickets.

Car – Port Lympne lies on the B2067 and is a few minutes’ drive past Ashford. Enter CT21 4LR into your Sat Nav or click here for Google Maps directions.

A beautiful tiger at Port Lympne Safari Park

Ashford

Ashford is a fast growing town situated in the heart of Kent surrounded by beautiful countryside and pretty villages. While Ashford doesn’t draw crowds of tourists like Canterbury or Dover, there are plenty of reasons to check out this little town, one being that it’s only 38 minutes from London by train!

Ashford has been my home base for the past 2.5 years and during that time I’ve had my fair share of locals ask me with a confused look on their faces “what brings a Canadian to Ashford of all places?” It’s true, Ashford isn’t the most picturesque town in England but I’ve come to appreciate it for its great location, interesting history, and the lovely nature and landscapes that surround it.

Read on to discover the highlights and some of my favourite things to do in Ashford that you can’t miss when visiting the town!

Beautiful view of St. Marys Church from the Memorial Gardens in Ashford

Highlights of Ashford

Designer Outlet – For those who love to shop, there is no better place to spend a day than the Ashford Designer Outlet! This newly expanded outdoor shopping centre has over 70 designer stores where you can snag some bargains on brands like Calvin Klein, Armani, Adidas, Coach, Diesel and so much more.

You can also find some great restaurants throughout the shopping complex including Wagamama, Five Guys, Pizza Express, Starbucks among others.

The Curious Brewery – Conveniently located next to the Ashford International train station, the Curious Brewery is the newest addition to Ashford’s pub scene. Produced by the Chapel Down winemakers, the premium beers and ciders made on site are truly unique!

Take a tour of the brewery or stop in here for a delicious lunch and a relaxed afternoon of socializing. The food here is amazing, the drinks are great and it’s the perfect atmosphere to catch up with friends or spend an afternoon out with family.

Relaxing at the Hubert Fountain in Victoria Park, Ashford

Swan & Dog Pub – This lovely countryside pub is located on the outskirts of Ashford in the small village of Great Chart. The timber framed building dates back to the 16th century and I always love how stepping inside this pub transports you back in time.

The old-world atmosphere and the delicious food they serve makes it a great place to go for a traditional English pub lunch.

Godinton House & Gardens – A gorgeous 17th century red brick manor surrounded by the stunning countryside of Great Chart. Take a guided tour to view the interior of this well-preserved mansion and admire the collection of antiques and original furnishings that are on display throughout the house.

The majestic gardens that surround the old manor are another reason to visit the Godinton House. Explore the 12 acres of stunning gardens featuring sculpted hedges, fountains, ponds, a rose garden and more.

A tearoom is open on site during the summer months of April – October serving teas, coffees, cakes and refreshments.

Click here to find more information about opening hours and tours of Godinton House.

Tickets – £7 gardens only, £12 house and gardens

The beautiful Godinton House

Godinton Gardens

Ashford Museum – Delve into Ashford’s fascinating history at the Ashford Museum. Located in the church yard near the town centre, this volunteer run museum showcases the complete history of the Ashford area dating as far back as the pre-historic times!

Inside this Grade II listed 17th century building you can expect to learn about Ashford’s history as a market down during the medieval times, smugglers in the Ashford area during the 18th century, and Ashford during the world wars among many other exhibits. I found this museum to be interesting and very well put together considering entrance is free.

Donations are welcomed as it is run by volunteers.

*Note* This museum is only open for limited hours during the summer months.

Opening Times – April to 28th October: Tuesday to Saturday, 11am until 2pm

Getting From London to Ashford

Train – Take the Southeastern train service that runs from St. Pancras Station in London toward Margate or Sandwich via Ashford. This high-speed train takes only 37 minutes. You can search for times and train tickets by clicking here.

Car – The best way to reach Ashford by car is via the M20. The total driving time should take around 1h 45m give or take depending on traffic conditions. Click here to view driving directions on Google Maps.

Exploring St. Mary Church in Ashford

The Best Day Tours in Kent

Throughout the article, I mentioned a few highly rated tours in Kent that depart from London stopping at Canterbury, Leeds Castle, Dover and more. For convenience I will share them again below including a few additional ones that might be of interest.

Click the widgets below to find more information about each day trip.

I hope this article has given you a nice introduction to some of the wonderful places to visit in Kent. The Southeast is such a beautiful part of England and although I only lived there for 2.5 years, that time will stay with me for the rest of my life.

The things I’ve come to know and love about Kent are the things I will miss the most when we leave England shortly; the endless patchwork of green fields that can be seen from any train journey, the quaint villages and ancient pubs, the half-timbered Tudor buildings and epic castles that were once home to England’s greatest Kings and Queens.

I left a piece of my heart in Kent, that’s for sure. And with that, I leave this article as my final farewell to the place I once called home. England, I’ll be back again one day

Read More About England Travel

• Day Trip to Canterbury from London – Complete 1 Day Itinerary
• The Top 10 Cotswolds Tours from London
• The Perfect Day Trip to Dover – Full Day Itinerary
• Top 10 Things to do in Ashford
• 20 Most Beautiful Villages in England
• An Amazing One Week Road Trip from London Itinerary

Enjoy These Days Out In Kent? Pin Me For Later!

Historical Facts Sourced From: English Heritage, Historic UK, Personal knowledge gained from visiting historic sites and castles 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may receive a small commission on purchases made through these links. By making any purchase, you are directly supporting The Road Is Life Travel Blog which allows us to continue providing you with free high-quality travel guides. We only recommend products or services we have tried/love! 

The post Days Out In Kent – 10 Awesome Day Trips from London to Kent appeared first on The Road Is Life.

Situated in the heart of Kent, surrounded by lush countryside and quaint villages, you’ll find the rapidly growing town of Ashford. It isn’t exactly known as a tourist hot spot but if you’re just visiting or new to town you might be wondering what there is to do. This article will show you all the best things to do in Ashford that are worth checking out!

After having spent the last 2.5 years of my life living in Ashford, Kent I’ve been asked almost on a daily basis by locals “what is a Canadian doing in Ashford!?” If I received £1 for every time someone asked me this, let’s just say I wouldn’t be living in Ashford!

In all seriousness, my time in Ashford has been an overall positive experience. Despite the fact that people love to speak negatively about this town, Ashford is actually full of fascinating history and it’s located only 38 minutes from London by train.

Hubert Fountain, Victoria Park

The gorgeous town of Canterbury is only a 15 minute train journey away and the picturesque village of Wye is one stop away on the train. Feel like spending the day in Paris or Brussels? Just hop on the Eurostar from Ashford’s International train station and you can be there in under 2 hours! The location honestly couldn’t be any better!

I’m not here to tell you that Ashford is an incredible destination that you should go out of your way to visit. However if you do find yourself in town, I’ve created this list of the top 10 things to do in Ashford that are worth checking out

The Top 10 Best Things To Do In Ashford

St. Mary Church, Ashford

Victoria Park

Just outside of the town centre is the lovely green space and the largest park in Ashford, Victoria Park. Dating back to the 19th century during the time that Ashford’s population began to rapidly grow, this 17 acre park was created to provide more leisure facilities for the town. Trees were planted throughout the park to honor important townspeople and members of the royal family and in 1912, the park was given its best feature, the Hubert Fountain.

Today, Victoria Park is a peaceful place to relax with a book, have a picnic, or go for a walk or run along the riverside. I really enjoyed living right next to this beautiful park during my time spent in Ashford!

Autumn colours in Victoria Park

St Mary the Virgin Church

Ashford’s town centre has seen many changes to its appearance over the centuries but there has always been one thing that’s remained unchanged, the beautiful medieval church. There has been a church on that site for nearly 1000 years dating back to the Anglo-Saxon times but the existing building has been standing since the late 13th century.

St Mary’s church went under significant restorations by Sir John Fogge in the late 15th century, transforming it into the church that we see today! Take a walk around the church yard and through the old cemetery. The church yard is surrounded by historic buildings dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries.

Inside the church is where you can find some impressive ancient artifacts including Sir John Fogge’s tomb, a carved Coat of Arms of Charles II, a beautifully carved marble pulpit and more. The church is located in the heart of Ashford town centre and is open to visitors daily from 10 am.

Willesborough Windmill

The Willesborough Windmill is located on the outskirts of Ashford town centre. It’s a beautifully restored and working windmill that was built in 1869 by John Hill. This year it is celebrating its 150th anniversary! The mill was originally used to produce flour until the sweeps stopped turning in the 1930s. It was fully renovated by the Ashford Borough Council and opened up to the public in 1991.

Nowadays you can find a museum inside the mill as well as a little cafe selling cakes, tea and coffee. The mill is only open during the summer season from the March 30th – October 27th.

If you want to visit this historic windmill, the museum is open on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from 2 – 5pm. They are also open on Wednesday afternoons from 2- 5pm during July & August. If you’re interested in taking a tour, it lasts between 45 minutes & 1 hour.

Best Pubs in Ashford for Lunch

There’s nothing I love more than a good old English pub lunch. Old English pubs are definitely one of the things I will miss the most when I leave the UK! One of my favourite things to do in Ashford is to go for a nice pub lunch. Below I have listed some of the best pubs in Ashford that are worth stopping at for lunch or just for a drink!

Curious Brewery

Coming in at no. 1 on my list is the newest addition to Ashford’s pub scene: the Curious Brewery. Conveniently located opposite the Ashford train station, this one is worth a stop even if you’re just passing through! While it’s not actually an old pub (it’s literally the newest pub in town), the food and brews here are truly one of a kind.

Inspired by the Chapel Down winemakers, their delicious ciders and premium beers are all produced on site. Book a tour & tasting or stop in here for a relaxed afternoon of drinks and lunch. They have a large range of tasty snacks and starters to accompany your drinks and the perfect atmosphere for socializing.

On my recent visit to the Curious, I had the veggie burger made with spiced cauliflower along with the triple cooked chips – which are amazing by the way. The Kent cheeseboard and Scotch eggs are great too! Click here to see their full menu.

Old Mill

The Old Mill is a historic building that dates back to the early 19th century. Located on Canterbury Road, just an 8 minute drive from Ashford’s town centre, this cosy little old pub is a great option for lunch or dinner. Serving traditional and modern pub food along with a great range of vegetarian and vegan options.

The Old Mill is owned by the same company as the Swan & Dog so you can expect to find the same type of quality food and service at both pubs.

Swan & Dog

One of my Ashford favs – the Swan & Dog is located in a 16th century building in the charming village of Great Chart, just outside of Ashford’s town centre. Great Chart dates back to the year 762! Most of the buildings along the main street date back to the medieval times.

We’ve stopped in this lovely pub a number of times over the last few years and each time the food did not disappoint! I love the feeling of stepping back in time as you enter this old pub. Their menu is full of traditional English classics along with delicious modern pub food. You really can’t go wrong with a lunch at the Swan & Dog!

The Blacksmiths Arms

Just outside of the town centre in Willesborough, The Blacksmiths Arms is another local pub that’s worth checking out. It’s in a traditional old building with a beer garden out the back, perfect for afternoon drinks on a sunny day. With great reviews, this family-run pub serves fresh food, good beer and an excellent Sunday roast.

Tap Room

If you like craft beer and amazing wood fired pizzas, then look no further. Another new addition to Ashford’s pub scene is the Tap Room which is located on Bank Street in the town centre. Serving a fine selection of craft beers on tap along with ciders and wines, the atmosphere is usually great in the evenings with people gathering to have after work drinks. Don’t forget to try their truffle chips!

The County Hotel – Wetherspoons

You’re probably thinking, why has she listed Wetherspoons here? Well, hear me out. Every great night out in Ashford typically starts at the spoons. It’s conveniently located in the town centre, always buzzing with people, affordable, you know what to expect and who doesn’t love the spoons? I’m not ashamed to say that the majority of my time spent in an Ashford pub was in the spoons!

Believe it or not, this Wetherspoons is actually considered a historic pub since it’s housed in a building that dates back to the early 18th century! Initially built as a private home, it later became a medical practice and then in 1890 it was turned into an inn. The building became the County Hotel in 1926 and it still goes by this name today.

Ashford Designer Outlet

A short walk from Ashford’s International train station will take you to the Designer Outlet. If you love shopping, this is the perfect place to spend a day and score some bargains on loads of designer brands including Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, Coach, Calvin Klein and many more!

The Designer Outlet has recently undergone some big changes and renovations in November 2019 with the addition of many new stores. On top of the 70 designer shops, you can find a kids playground area along with plenty of great dining options like Wagamama, Five Guys, Pizza Express, Starbucks, Subway and more.

The Ashford Deisgner Outlet is a fun place to spend a day out with the family and get some shopping in at the same time.

Port Lympne Safari Park

The Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is a wildlife park located a 20 minute drive south of Ashford. For a unique and fun day out in Kent, go on a safari through the English countryside and see over 700 endangered animals including the only giraffes in Kent. Enjoy watching the animals as they roam freely throughout the park at their own leisure.

You can expect to find zebras, gorillas, tigers, lions, bears, and the largest herd of black rhino in the UK! Grab a pizza and a glass of Prosecco and relax at Babydoll’s Wood Fired Pizza restaurant located in the heart of the park among some beautiful landscaped gardens.

Tickets – £23.50 or book online and pay £20

Don’t forget to check out the Dinosaur Forest which is sure to be a highlight for any families with children. The Dinosaur Forest has the largest collection of life sized dinosaurs in Europe. Inside the forest, you will find a massive T-Rex, stegosaurus, pterodactyl, diplodocus and many more!

Port Lympne also offers accommodation and makes an awesome place to retreat to for short breaks with family and friends. For 2 days in the reserve and an overnight stay, prices start as low as £25. Find more information about prices and bookings right here. 

More Fun Ways to Spend a Day in Kent

Dinner & Movie at the Picture House

Another brand new addition to Ashford is the Picture House located in Elwick Place near the town centre. The 6-screen cinema regularly shows Hollywood blockbusters and independent films. There’s also a restaurant and bar making it the perfect place to go for a date night or a relaxing night out.

The restaurant has a large menu with something that appeals to everyone and drinks that can be taken into the cinema. We’ve visited the Picture House once since it’s opening earlier this year and had a lovely time there.

Day Trip to Wye

A short 6 minute train ride away from Ashford will take you to the picturesque little village of Wye. This charming town is the perfect place to escape for the day to go for a walk in the Kent Downs and enjoy some peaceful time in nature.

Our favourite thing to do when visiting Wye is to take a walk up to the memorial crown, a hill top viewpoint overlooking the village of Wye and surrounding countryside. This walk is mostly uphill and takes about 35 minutes.

After you’ve finished the hike, wander back into town and head straight for the Tickled Trout. Located on the banks of the Stour River, this historic pub is built in traditional Kentish style architecture and is full of rustic charm. It’s the perfect place to relax in the sun and sip pints all afternoon post hike. There has been a pub in this location for over 400 years!

We’ve visited the Tickled Trout many times and it’s definitely become our favourite, go-to pub for lunch and drinks. Wye has many other cute little pubs throughout the town, The Kings Head and The Flying Horse are also worth stopping at for lunch or just a drink!

The beautiful Tickled Trout pub

Godinton House & Gardens

The Godinton House is a stunning old brick manor located 10 minutes from Ashford’s town centre in the lovely countryside of Great Chart. The estate dates back to the 14th century and was owned by the Toke family for more than 400 years. In the 17th century, the medieval building was extensively renovated and extended by Nicholas Toke.

The only way to see the interior of the house is by taking a guided tour but it is worth doing as the rooms are beautiful and still have their original furnishings. The other highlight of visiting Godinton House is the incredible 12 acre gardens that surround the manor.

It’s easy to spend an afternoon exploring and admiring the extensive and artistically designed gardens which include fountains, water features, sculpted hedges, and endless pretty flowers. The gardens came later than the manor and date back to the late 19th century.

Click here for more information about opening hours and tours of the manor.

Tickets – £7 gardens only, £12 house and gardens

Ashford Museum

If you’re a history lover like me then you’ll have to make a trip to the Ashford Museum! Located in the Church Yard, this museum is housed in a Grade II listed 17th century building. Take a step back in time and learn about the history of Ashford over the centuries.

The museum covers Ashford’s history from the pre-historic times (seriously, there is a 200 million year old dinosaur leg in there!), Neolithic and Anglo-Saxon times, medieval times, Victorian era through to today. The exhibits are displayed over 2 floors and you will learn all about the smugglers in the Ashford area, Ashford’s history as market town, Ashford during the wars and so much more!

Entrance to the museum is FREE and it is is run by volunteers, donations are welcome.

*Note* This museum is only open for limited hours during the spring/summer months.

Opening Times – April to 28th October: Tuesday to Saturday, 11am until 2pm

Getting from London to Ashford

If you’re travelling by train, the quickest and most convenient way to get from London to Ashford is by taking the high speed train from St Pancras Station to Ashford International. This train journey only takes 37 minutes and is much more efficient and direct than taking the slower trains which take up to 1.5 hours.

→Find train times and purchase your tickets online←

Where to stay in Ashford, Kent

Cornerstone B&B – This lovely bed and breakfast is located inside a Grade II listed building in the heart of Ashford’s town centre. It’s within walking distance to the International Train station/Eurostar and is nearby many restaurants, pubs and shops.

Reviews of this bed and breakfast are extremely positive stating that the Wi-Fi is great, the host is friendly, and the rooms are clean and comfortable.

→View prices and availability at the Cornerstone B&B←

St. Mary Church from Memorial Gardens in Ashford

The Conningbrook Hotel – The Conningbrook Hotel is a 5 minute drive from Ashford’s town centre in the village of Kennington. It has a bar and restaurant serving delicious traditional meals and caters to vegetarians. I’ve eaten at this restaurant before and can confirm the food is great! There is also a big outdoor beer garden. The rooms are large and comfortable and with a rating of 8.3 on Booking.com, it’s one of the most popular places to stay around Ashford.

→View prices and availability at the Conningbrook Hotel←

Celebrating 150 years of the Willesborough Windmill

Ashford International Hotel – QHotels – If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious for your stay, you can’t go wrong with the Ashford International Hotel. It’s conveniently located minutes from the M20 and the Eurostar connection. There’s a fitness centre with a pool and spa offering a variety of treatments, as well as a restaurant and bar.

It’s only a 5 minute drive from the town centre and has excellent ratings and reviews on Booking.com.

→View prices and availability at the Ashford International Hotel←

Best Restaurants in Ashford, Kent

If you’re looking for somewhere nice to eat, these are some of the most popular, highly-rated restaurants in Ashford’s town centre:

Amici – Ashford’s no. 1 restaurant as per TripAdvisor reviews. The food is incredible here, there’s really not much else to say! It’s an Italian and Mediterranean restaurant with great service and high quality food. The reviews speak for themselves.

Shens – Located on Bank Street in the town centre, Shens is a Mediterranean restaurant serving Turkish and Greek cuisine. We love Shens! They serve amazing, fresh food with great service. The atmosphere and quality of food in this place makes it the 5 star restaurant that it is! We’ve always had a great experience dining here.

Little Raj – Fancy eating Indian in a medieval building? Little Raj is located in a gorgeous 16th century building in the town centre and they serve delicious Indian food with vegetarian and vegan options available. The ratings on TripAdvisor are great.

→Click here to browse more restaurants in Ashford←

College House in the Church Yard

Interesting Facts and History about Ashford, Kent

• Ashford has been a market town since the 13th century. To this day a regular market continues to be held in the town centre.
• A Mark IV female tank was presented to the town in 1919 for their war efforts. You can find this tank in St Georges Square near the town centre.
• Ashford has been the centre of five railway lines since the 19th century. After the railways were built, this provided a source of employment and contributed to the exponential growth of the town.

See More of England With Us

• The Perfect One Week Road Trip from London
• Day Trip to Canterbury from London – Complete One Day Itinerary
• The Best Tours to the Cotswolds from London
• 10 Awesome Ways to Spend a Day Out in Kent
• Day Trip to Dover from London – The Ultimate Day Trip Guide
• 20 Stunning Must See English Villages 

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may receive a small commission on purchases made through these links. We only recommend products/services we have tried/love! 

Photo Credit: Port Lympne Safari Park – Amanda Hutchings, Godinton Gardens – hans s on VisualHunt / CC BY-ND, Designer Outlet  – hans s on Visualhunt.com / CC BY-ND

Historical facts and information sourced from the Ashford Borough Museum, Historic England, Wikipedia

The post Things To Do In Ashford – The Top 10 Things You Can’t Miss appeared first on The Road Is Life.

Canterbury is conveniently located 1 hour by train from London’s St. Pancras station making it the perfect day out in Kent. Packed with quaint old pubs, loaded with stunning photography spots, and enough history to blow your mind, this ancient town takes its place as one of my top picks when it comes to day trips from London.

After having spent the last 2 years of my life living in Ashford, Kent (15 mins from Canterbury by train), I’ve taken many little day trips to Canterbury and seen something new and exciting each time. I’ve found it to be the perfect place to immerse myself in old English history and culture.

➤Looking to see the best of Canterbury with limited time?

Check out this tour that organises every detail of the day for you and includes more famous stops in Kent!

Gateway to the Canterbury Cathedral

The Top 10 Best Things to do on a Day Trip to Canterbury

After exploring and learning about this beautiful town over the years, I’ve put together the perfect guide with everything you could possibly need to know to have the best day trip to Canterbury!

When travelling from London, the train will drop you off at the Canterbury West station. Starting the day off with the closest attraction to the train station, make your way over to the Westgate Gardens.

Westgate Gardens

A short 8 minute stroll from the Canterbury West train station will take you to the lovely Westgate Gardens which is one of the oldest parks in England. Apart from being really old, it’s also very scenic and the perfect place to ease your way into a day of sightseeing.

These gardens are situated at the entrance to the old town along the Great Stour River and they’ve been a public space since the middle ages. Enjoy the peaceful nature and the historic buildings and ruins that are present among the gardens.

As you walk through the gardens, you will come across the remnants of a medieval archway which is thought to have been brought here from the ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey.

The stunning Westgate Gardens

A peaceful scene in the Westgate Gardens

Westgate Towers Canterbury

After the gardens, head straight over to the well preserved medieval gatehouse that stands at the entrance to Canterbury’s high street. This epic tower dates back to the 14th century and is the largest surviving city gate in all of England. This impressive gatehouse is actually a replacement from the original Roman wall that circled the city around the year 300 AD.

Explore the museum inside the towers to learn all about their defense role during the wars over the centuries. Enjoy spectacular city views from the battlements at the top of the towers. Tickets for the Westgate museum cost £4 per person.

The Old Weaver’s House

One of the most iconic buildings in Canterbury which you will inevitably walk past as you wander down the high street. The Old Weaver’s House is a classic timer-framed Tudor style house perfectly placed next to a canal. Its name comes from the Flemish weavers who fled France to escape religious persecution in the 16th century.

It’s now home to a popular restaurant where you can dine on the patio outside next to the river. During the summer months, they offer a special of £20 for a traditional English lunch followed by a 40 minute river tour. Boats depart directly from the restaurant and take you around the canals in traditional punting style.

Canterbury River Cruise

One of the highlights of your day trip to Canterbury will be taking the historic river cruise. This is probably the most popular attraction of the city so you won’t want to miss out on this enjoyable experience!

Escape the bustle of the high street and embark on a journey through time as you cruise along the River Stour passing beautiful, ancient buildings. You’ll learn the most fascinating history and stories told by your guide who will also be the chauffeur.

Canterbury boat tours run between 10am and 5pm daily and operate between April 1st and November 7th. You can find the Canterbury Historic River Tours staff located on the Kings Bridge right next to the Old Weaver’s House. The boat tours run throughout the day and you can either show up on the day or reserve your ticket online in advance.

Click here to find prices and book your tickets online. It doesn’t hurt to book the river cruise online in advance especially during the high season when it gets quite busy.

Crooked House of Canterbury

”..a very old house bulging over the road…leaning forward, trying to see who was passing on the narrow pavement below…” Charles Dickens, 1849

A short walk from the high street will take you to the famous crooked house of Canterbury which is a must on your day trip itinerary! The 17th century crooked house is also known as Sir John Boy’s House, named after an MP and the first recorder of Canterbury from the 1600’s. Its skewed façade makes it look like the building could collapse at any given moment.

It is said that the house gets its crooked appearance from chimney alterations gone wrong which caused the entire building to slip sideways. After attempts to fix the slippage, the building became even more crooked and is now internally stabilized by a steel frame.

The house has seen many different owners over the years but as of today, it is a book shop and is open to the public. Stop here briefly to snap some photos and stick your head inside for quick look, you’ll notice that it’s just as crooked on the inside! Take note of the extremely crooked door which adds to the quirkiness of the house.

Not too far away from the crooked house is the Parrot Pub, where we recommend making your way to for lunch.

Have Lunch at the Parrot

Stop for a lunch break at Canterbury’s oldest pub, established in the year 1370. The Parrot is not only the town’s oldest pub but it’s is also one of the oldest buildings in Canterbury built on Roman foundations in the 14th century. Stepping into this pub really feels like taking a step back in time with its huge medieval beams and oak floorboards.

We stopped here to have lunch in their outdoor patio area one sunny afternoon and really enjoyed it. We ordered gourmet sandwiches and they were both delicious. The staff were very friendly and service was quick even though it was a busy day when we visited. This is our top pick for pubs in Canterbury and definitely worth a stop for the history and great food.

The outdoor seating area at the Parrot Pub

Canterbury Cathedral

A day trip to Canterbury is not complete without visiting it’s most iconic symbol, the incredible Canterbury Cathedral which is one of the oldest and most important Cathedrals in the history of Britain. During the middle ages, Canterbury Cathedral became one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe. I wasn’t lying when I said Canterbury is packed with fascinating ancient history!

The cathedral’s origins can be traced back to the year 597 AD when St. Augustine first arrived on the shores of Kent and established a church on the site. He was sent by Pope Gregory the Great from Rome as a missionary to England and became the first Archbishop of Canterbury.

Over the centuries, the Cathedral has seen many changes to its appearance, eventually taking shape as the Cathedral that we see today. As of present day, it has been under serious restoration since we first arrived in the UK in 2017. Other than the obvious scaffolding placed around it (sadly ruining any photos from the outside), the restoration doesn’t stop visitors from entering the Cathedral.

Tickets: £17/adult, free/child

Opening Hours: 9am – 4pm daily (11:30am – 4pm on Sundays)

➤Get your ticket to Canterbury Cathedral + audio guide online before you go

Beautiful ceiling of the Cathedral’s cloister

View from inside the Cathedral grounds

Canterbury Roman Museum

The history of Canterbury stretches far back beyond the medieval times to the days of Roman invasions of Britain late in the 1st century. The Romans took over an existing Celtic settlement and built a new town calling it Durovernum Cantiacorum. In Roman Canterbury, there were temples, public bath houses, a theatre, a town hall and streets laid out in a grid pattern protected by a town wall with 7 gates.

In the 19th century, workers made an exciting discovery while digging trenches for a drainage system. Below the street level, they found a well preserved Roman floor mosaic! Further discoveries were made after the Second World War uncovering the remnants of a Roman town house, an ancient underground heating system and other interesting findings.

Learn all about life in Roman Britain at the Canterbury Roman Museum located on Butchery Lane just off the high street.

Tickets: £10.50/adult, £5.35/child

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm daily

Beaney House of Art & Knowledge

Set within a stunning Grade II listed building on Canterbury’s high street, this fascinating museum and art gallery has a little bit of everything. From historic art work to ancient artefacts, the displays are spread out over multiple floors. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits to see ranging from the Egyptian and Greek times to the Anglo-Saxon times and much more.

The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge is a great place to stop in for a quick visit as you wander along the high street. It is free to enter, find more info about planning your visit here. There is a café and shop inside as well as a library.

Tickets: Free

Opening Hours:

Monday: Closed
Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday: 11:00am – 4:00pm

The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge

Visit the Oldest Churches in England

If you still have time left on your already busy day trip to Canterbury, check out some of the most ancient churches in the history of the entire country! These churches are located just outside of Canterbury’s town centre so it’s understandable if you don’t make it there. If you do have the extra time, they are well worth a visit to learn some fascinating facts about English history.

St Martin’s Church – St. Martin’s Church is the oldest church in the English-speaking world still in use today! Dating back to the early 6^th century, this ancient church is a 10 minute walk from the town centre. It was a place of worship during the Roman occupation of Britain and the church was built upon Roman ruins that you can still see today.

Ruins of St. Augustine’s Abbey

St Augustine’s Abbey – Located just outside of the town centre near St. Martin’s Church, these fantastic ruins and museum are often overlooked by tourists. St Augustine’s Abbey was originally a burial site for the Anglo-Saxon kings of Kent and then the abbey was founded by St. Augustine himself around the same time as the Canterbury Cathedral in 597. It served as a monastery until the English Reformation in the 1500s.

You can visit the abbey museum and take a virtual reality tour through the site to see the abbey as it appeared in the 16th century. For prices and opening times click here.

Best Canterbury Day Tour from London

Duration – 10.5 hrs

Included – Entry to Dover Castle, entry to Canterbury Cathedral, guided tour of Canterbury, visit to the White Cliffs of Dover, experienced tour guide/driver, transportation by coach.

If you don’t like the idea of navigating train schedules and maps on your own, perhaps taking an organized day trip to Canterbury from London would be the best option. The day trip that I recommend also includes a stop in Dover to see the White Cliffs and Dover Castle.

The tour will pick you up in London first thing in the morning and take you straight to the White Cliffs of Dover where you will enjoy a scenic walk. Afterwards, you will explore the incredible Dover Castle, one of England’s oldest and most important fortresses.

In the afternoon, you will carry on to Canterbury for lunch followed by a guided tour of the town. You will also be given time to see the Cathedral before heading back to London.

The total time spent in Canterbury on this tour will be about 2.5 hours so you won’t be able to see everything I’ve listed above. The bonus is that you can also tick off some other awesome attractions in Kent!

→Find prices and availability for the full day Canterbury tour←

Best Photo Spots in Canterbury

There is no shortage of incredible photography opportunities to be discovered around Canterbury. Besides the obvious ones like the Westgate Towers or Canterbury Cathedral, I’ve listed my favourite little spots that could easily be overlooked on a typical sightseeing day.

Westgate Gardens – Once you are inside the gardens, head to the medieval archway ruins where you can catch a lovely view looking back toward the Westgate Towers. This perfect photo spot allows you to capture the river, gardens, towers, and bridge all in the same shot.

Old Weaver’s House – While the Old Weaver’s house is one of the most photographed buildings in Canterbury, don’t just take a photo of it from the front and move on. Make sure to take a peek down the canal next to it to snap the perfect shot. It is really such a picturesque scene, especially with the little boats floating along the river.

The Crooked House – The crooked house of Canterbury aka a prime Instagram spot that cannot be missed! This house can draw quite a crowd of keen photo-takers, especially on weekends and high season so be prepared to wait a bit to get that perfect shot.

The most insta-worthy spot in all of Canterbury!

Butchery Lane – As you make your way along Canterbury’s high street, make sure to stop at the beginning of Butchery Lane where you will find an awesome photo opportunity waiting for you. Snap a photo peeking down the alley that leads toward the cathedral like the one I took below. Bear in mind that my photo was taken early in the morning so if you attempt to get this shot in the afternoon on a busy day, you may be disappointed with the crowds that you’ll find there!

A postcard worthy view down Butchery Lane

Cathedral Cloister – I know I wasn’t going to mention the cathedral, but this spot is actually inside the cathedral’s 15th century cloister and I feel like its epic enough that it deserves a spot on this list. The symmetry here is just everything and of course results in the perfect Instagram photo.

Best Pubs in Canterbury

With an abundance of awesome historic pubs around Canterbury, it’s hard to choose which one to stop at for a drink or lunch. There are ancient pubs lining the streets, each one as inviting as the next. Below are few of our favourites and we can highly recommend them based on our experience!

The Pound – While it’s not actually an ancient pub like the rest on this list, The Pound is located within the old Gaol and police station on One Pound Lane next to the Westgate Towers. While the building itself is historic, the interior of the pub is new and serves an excellent range of tasty cocktails, wines, gins and local beers. It has a great atmosphere in the evenings, I have been there a few times and really enjoyed this place!

The Parrot – As I’ve suggested above, The Parrot is our top pick for ancient pubs in Canterbury. Being the oldest pub in town, it’s also one of the top rated in terms of delicious food and drinks and a great atmosphere. Hidden away in a quaint cobblestone backstreet, this pub is definitely one that cannot be missed on your day trip to Canterbury. We had a great time here!

The Dolphin – Tucked away in the backstreets of Canterbury is this lovely old pub with a big outdoor beer garden. This popular place is a short walk away from the high street and it’s a great place to stop in for lunch or dinner. We didn’t actually eat here but we’ve included it because it has high ratings on TripAdvisor with most people writing that the food is amazing.

The Old Buttermarket – The perfect traditional pub to stop in for a pint to break up a day of sightseeing. It’s located in the square outside of the cathedral providing a nice atmosphere and view to sip your drinks on a sunny afternoon. They serve traditional British food with a range of wines, ales and beers on tap. We stopped here briefly for drinks before exploring the cathedral.

The Shakespeare – In the heart of Canterbury, a stone’s throw away from the Cathedral and a one minute walk from the high street is the Shakespeare pub. Originally built in the 1504, this building was once a Tudor playhouse. It has since been renovated and turned into a lively pub with a delicious menu, a large range of wines and beers and a fun atmosphere.

The Bishops Finger – A 16th century traditional alehouse with a great old English atmosphere. The charming medieval exterior of this pub is what invites you in from the street. It’s a short walk away from the historic town centre and makes the perfect place to stop for lunch or have a pint in their big outdoor beer garden out back. They serve classic English food and drinks.

Getting from London to Canterbury

London to Canterbury Train – Trains depart regularly from London’s St. Pancras station and run directly to the Canterbury West station. However, there are several routes throughout the day that require changing trains in Ashford.

For a full day trip to Canterbury, it’s best to leave early and catch the morning train that goes direct without stopping in Ashford. See link below for more information.

→View train schedules and purchase your tickets online← 

Driving from London to Canterbury – For more flexibility on your day trip, you might prefer to rent a car and drive there yourself. On the way to Canterbury, you could even make a stop at Leeds Castle. Driving from London to Canterbury takes 1.5 hours and full driving directions and map can be found by clicking here.

Exploring the endless picturesque old buildings of Canterbury

Where to Stay in Canterbury

If you’re not in a hurry to get back to London, perhaps spending the night in a historic hotel in Canterbury would be a fun idea. Find some of the best old hotels and inns below.

The Falstaff in Canterbury – Dating back to 1403, this historic inn is located near Canterbury’s Westgate Tower. With many original features still intact, it’s the perfect place to stay for a great location and lovely medieval charm. The Falstaff in Canterbury offers a full English breakfast along with a cocktail bar serving cocktails, local beers, wines and spirits. Click here to book your room.

Pilgrims Hotel – Situated in the town centre, this old hotel dates back to the 16th century. It features traditional rooms, a cosy oak-beamed bar and restaurant and includes a full English breakfast. Located directly across from the Marlowe Theatre and only a 5 minute walk from the Canterbury Cathedral, this traditional hotel is in an excellent location and has a very high rating on Booking.com. Click here to book your room at the Pilgrims Hotel.

Cathedral Gate – This historic hotel is located in the very heart of Canterbury and dates back to the year 1438. For an epic experience, stay in the hotel which was also slept in by pilgrims in the medieval times. The Cathedral Gate hotel features wooden beams and sloping floors and it offers a continental breakfast as well as a full English breakfast for an extra fee.

The location of this place could not be any better as it’s directly next to the gateway to the Canterbury Cathedral. Some of the rooms even have beautiful views of the Cathedral. With excellent reviews on Booking.com, this popular hotel is an awesome choice. Click here to book a room at the Cathedral Gate hotel.

Hopefully this guide has helped show you around the stunning medieval town of Canterbury. Living so close to this amazing place was a huge highlight of my time spent in England and one of the things I will miss the most when we leave! I hope you’ve enjoyed Canterbury as much as I have and if you wish to share anything about your experience, please feel free to leave me a comment below

Discover More of England

• An Epic One Week Road Trip from London
• Day Trip to Dover from London – Complete One Day Itinerary
• The Best Cotswolds Tours from London
• 10 Awesome Ways to Spend a Day Out in Kent
• Top 10 Things to do in Ashford
• 20 of the Most Beautiful English Villages

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