Duration: 10 hours.

Looking to explore England's history, coast and culture in a single day? Visit Leeds Castle, Dover, Canterbury and Greenwich, with a scenic Thames cruise back into the heart of London.

Your Day's Itinerary

Leeds Castle

Our first stop is Leeds Castle. Described as the "loveliest castle in the world," it was once a royal residence for six of England's medieval queens, a palace of Henry VIII, and a retreat for the rich and powerful. Set on two small islands in the middle of a lake and surrounded by a vast estate, the castle is truly idyllic. We arrive right when the castle opens, so you'll be among the first visitors inside to explore the chapel, galleries, courtyards and banqueting hall before it gets busy. You'll also have time on the grounds to spot wildlife, including black swans and wildfowl.

Dover

See the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, a dramatic symbol of England's coastline. On a clear day, you can even glimpse France across the Channel. Dover is also a historic port city, home to a magnificent 12th century castle.

Canterbury

Next, we visit Canterbury, a city that has been a centre of Christian worship for almost 1,700 years. Its greatest treasure is Canterbury Cathedral, famously the site of Thomas Becket's murder in 1170. Following Henry II's infamous words, "Who will rid me of this turbulent priest?", four knights assassinated Becket within the cathedral, making it one of Europe's most important medieval pilgrimage sites. Geoffrey Chaucer immortalised the city in The Canterbury Tales.

Greenwich and Thames Cruise

Back in London, our last stop is Greenwich, a historic district full of parks, gardens and striking architecture, with strong connections to the sea, science, time and sovereigns. You'll have time to admire the Cutty Sark, once the fastest sailing ship of its era. In the early evening, we enjoy a scenic cruise along the River Thames back to central London, passing iconic landmarks including the Tower of London, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, before arriving at Embankment Pier, where the tour concludes.

What's Included

Entry to Leeds Castle

Entry to Canterbury Cathedral (if option selected)

Thames River Cruise from Greenwich to Embankment Pier

Walking tour of Greenwich

Professional guide

Transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach

What's Not Included

Gratuities (optional)

Hotel drop-offs

Good to Know

The tour departs from Victoria Coach Station, Gate 19–20, at 8.15am (boarding from 8.00am) and concludes at Embankment Pier in central London at approximately 7pm.

Free cancellation and full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours before departure.

Description supplied by the event organiser.