The White Cliffs of Dover are one of the most recognisable sights in England, and on a clear day you can see France from the cliff path. Above the town stands Dover Castle, which has guarded the shortest Channel crossing for nearly a thousand years. Half an hour away is Canterbury, a walled medieval city built around its great cathedral.
- DistanceAbout 80 miles to Dover
- By carAbout 2 hours each way
- TicketsDover Castle; Canterbury Cathedral
- Best seasonApril to October
The White Cliffs
The National Trust looks after the cliffs above Dover, with a visitor centre, café and car park at the start of the cliff-top path. An hour or so walking east along the path gives you the classic views of the cliffs, the busy port below and, on a clear day, the French coast. The path is grassy and uneven in places and can be very windy, so wear sturdy shoes.
Dover Castle
Run by English Heritage, Dover Castle is one of the largest castles in England. Highlights include the Great Tower built by Henry II and the Secret Wartime Tunnels in the cliffs, from where the Dunkirk evacuation was planned in 1940. Allow about two hours.
The castle is normally open daily from April to the end of October half term, with more limited opening in winter, when it is often open only at weekends or on selected days. Tickets are sold by time slot, and booking online is cheaper than paying on the day. Check the English Heritage website for your date.
Canterbury
Canterbury Cathedral, the mother church of the Church of England, has been a place of pilgrimage since the murder of Thomas Becket there in 1170. Entry is charged, and opening is shorter on Sundays because of services. Around the cathedral, the old city has timber-framed streets, the River Stour and stretches of the medieval walls to explore.
A day that works
- Pickup from your hotel or address in Central London.
- White Cliffs cliff-top walk from the National Trust visitor centre (about 1½ hours).
- Dover Castle and the wartime tunnels, with lunch at the castle (about 2 hours).
- About 30 minutes' drive to Canterbury.
- Canterbury Cathedral and the old city (about 2½ hours).
- Back to London, about 2 hours.
- Drop-off at your door.
Why a car helps on this trip
High-speed trains reach Canterbury and Dover from St Pancras, but the cliff path and the castle are both a steep walk or a taxi ride from Dover Priory station, and linking the three places by public transport takes much of the day. A private car takes you to the top of the cliffs and the castle gate, then on to Canterbury, so you spend the day sightseeing rather than waiting.
| Vehicle | Passengers | Price per vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| See the current prices for every vehicle on the tour page. | ||
Practical tips
- Check the weather. The cliffs are at their best on a clear day, and the path is exposed in wind and rain.
- Book the castle and the cathedral in advance, and tell us your castle time slot.
- In winter, when the castle opens fewer days, Leeds Castle and Canterbury make a good alternative day.
Questions we are often asked
Can we see France from the White Cliffs?
On a clear day, yes. The French coast is about 21 miles away across the Strait of Dover. Haze and low cloud often hide it, so it is not guaranteed.
Is Dover Castle open every day?
It is normally open daily from April to the end of October half term, and on more limited days in winter. Check the English Heritage website for your date before booking.
How much walking is involved?
The cliff path walk is about an hour on uneven, grassy ground, and the castle has steep slopes and steps. You can shorten the cliff walk or skip it if you prefer.
Are tickets included in the tour price?
No. Our price covers your private car, driver, fuel, parking and waiting time. You book Dover Castle and Canterbury Cathedral tickets directly.
Can we visit Leeds Castle instead of Dover?
Yes. Our Leeds Castle & Kent tour is a good alternative, especially in winter. Or ask us to combine Canterbury with Leeds Castle.