Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Greenwich and Thames Cruise
- Enjoy exclusive early access to Leeds Castle, the "loveliest castle in the world," offering a private tour before it opens to the public.
- Witness the stunning beauty of Dover's famous white cliffs, with possible sights of France's coast on clear days.
- Explore the historic city of Canterbury, home to renowned architecture and the infamous Canterbury Cathedral, center of medieval pilgrimages.
- Discover Greenwich's rich history with its connections to sea, science, sovereigns, and time, including a glimpse of the speedy Cutty Sark.
Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Greenwich and Thames Cruise
Depart London and drive towards Leeds where a private tour, before the castle opens to the general public, awaits you. Described as the "loveliest castle in the world," Leeds Castle was once a Royal residence for six of England's queens, one of Henry VIII castles, and a retreat for the rich and powerful. Built on two small islands surrounded by a lake, the Norman castle is very scenic. Your day begins with a private viewing prior to the castle opening to the public. You will explore the chapel, galleries, courtyards and banqueting hall before taking time to enjoy the setting and wildlife, which includes wildfowl and black swans.
From here, you will continue to the coast to visit the famous white cliffs of Dover, overlooking the straights between England and France. On a clear day you can even see the coast of France. Dover itself is an historic port with a magnificent 12th century castle overlooking it.
Next, visit the ancient city of Canterbury, which has been a center of Christian worship for almost 1,700 years. Admire the architecture in this charming village with its renowned cathedral, infamous as the setting for the brutal murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170. Canterbury became the center of one of the most important medieval pilgrimages in Europe, immortalized by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales. Your ticket includes entrance to the Cathedral and also allows some free time to explore the atmospheric old town.
Then drive to the charming town of Greenwich, packed with exquisite parks, gardens, and architecture. The town has a long connection with the sea, science, sovereigns and time. We will have time to take a look at the Cutty Sark, the fastest sailing ship of its time. As the early evening approaches you will board a river boat and gently cruise back to the center of London. You will pass by historic sights such as the Tower of London, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament, before arriving at Westminster pier where your tour ends.
Please Note: Due to severe traffic congestion in and around the port, a consequence of the ongoing industrial action, the stop in Dover may be removed from the itinerary without notice
This tour departs from the Victoria Coach (Bus) Station, a 5-minute walk from the Victoria Train Station. This tour is intended for your pre/post cruise experience. Please be advised that the tour departure location is an approximately 2-hour drive from the port. You must find your own way to the tour departure location (at your own expense). There are many options, such as taking a taxi, train, bus, or any combination of the above.