London: Leeds, Canterbury Christmas Market & Greenwich

Escape the bustling city of London for a day and embark on a captivating journey through the picturesque English countryside. Uncover the rich history and festive charm of Leeds Castle, Canterbury, and Greenwich. From medieval fortresses to stunning natural landscapes, this day trip offers a well-rounded experience that showcases the diverse beauty and cultural heritage of southeast England. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a delightful seasonal getaway, this excursion promises to leave you with lasting memories.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from London visits Leeds Castle, Canterbury Christmas Market, and Greenwich, offering a comprehensive exploration of historic sites and festive experiences.
• The tour includes admission to Leeds Castle, a photo stop at the White Cliffs of Dover, and a drive-through of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Greenwich.
• Highlights of the tour include the medieval architecture and gardens of Leeds Castle, the lively atmosphere of the Canterbury Christmas market, and the iconic White Cliffs of Dover.
• The tour is approximately 10 hours long, with a non-refundable cancellation policy, and is guided by a live English-speaking professional.
• Participants are responsible for reaching the designated meeting point at Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, and the tour ends at London Victoria around 6:30 PM.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The London Christmas Markets tour is priced from £99.00 per person and lasts approximately 10 hours.

The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy and is led by a live English-speaking guide.

The meeting point is Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, a 7-minute walk from Victoria station. The tour ends at London Victoria around 6:30 PM.

Highlights include touring Leeds Castle, exploring Canterbury’s medieval city and Christmas market, taking a photo stop at the White Cliffs of Dover, and driving through Greenwich.

Inclusions are the Leeds Castle entry, Dover photo stop, Greenwich drive, transportation, and guide.

Itinerary Highlights

Over 900 years old and steeped in history, Leeds Castle is the first stop on this tour.

Surrounded by 500 acres of landscaped parkland, visitors get an almost private experience with early arrival.

Next, the tour explores the medieval city of Canterbury, the center of English Christianity.

Travelers will see the exterior of Canterbury Cathedral and experience the city’s Christmas market, filled with bratwursts, mulled wine, trinkets, and festive gifts.

The tour then makes a photo stop at the iconic White Cliffs of Dover before driving through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Greenwich.

Leeds Castle

Towering over 500 acres of landscaped parkland, Leeds Castle dates back over 900 years and boasts a rich history.

As part of the tour, visitors are granted early entry for an almost private experience at this picturesque destination.

Here are four highlights of Leeds Castle:

1. Explore the grand architecture and stately rooms of the castle.

2. Wander through the beautiful gardens and parklands surrounding the castle.

3. Visit the collections of antique furniture, tapestries, and art housed within.

4. Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of this historic site.

Canterbury

Next, the tour explores the medieval city of Canterbury, the center of English Christianity. Visitors will wander the city’s cobbled streets, discovering its rich history and culture.

The highlight is the chance to see the exterior of Canterbury Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic masterpiece.

After, the group can enjoy the festive atmosphere of Canterbury’s Christmas market. Vendors offer a variety of seasonal treats, from bratwurst to mulled wine, as well as trinkets and gifts.

Lively music adds to the cheerful ambiance, creating the perfect opportunity for last-minute holiday shopping.

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White Cliffs of Dover

The tour now heads to one of Britain’s most famous coastal landscapes – the White Cliffs of Dover.

This iconic natural wonder offers a unique photo opportunity. Visitors can:

1. Admire the stunning white chalk cliffs that rise dramatically from the English Channel.

2. Capture the iconic view of Dover Castle perched atop the cliffs, a filming location for the historical drama "The Other Boleyn Girl."

3. Breathe in the fresh sea air and enjoy the panoramic vistas across the Strait of Dover.

4. Soak up the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of this renowned coastal landmark.

Greenwich

After visiting the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, the tour continues its journey through the London borough of Greenwich.

From the comfort of the coach, guests catch glimpses of the area’s renowned maritime landmarks and architectural masterpieces. Greenwich is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich history and cultural significance.

Though the tour doesn’t allow time to explore the borough in depth, the drive-through provides a taste of its historic charm. This stops the tour on a high note before returning to London Victoria in the late afternoon.

Inclusions

Though the tour doesn’t allow in-depth exploration of the area, the Inclusions cover the key highlights of the day’s itinerary.

The tour includes:

1. Entry to the magnificent Leeds Castle, over 900 years old and surrounded by stunning parkland.

2. A photo stop at the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, one of Britain’s most famous coastal landscapes.

3. A drive through the historic borough of Greenwich, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Entry to the exterior of Canterbury Cathedral, the center of English Christianity.

Transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach and a professional guide are also included.

Exclusions

While the tour covers many of the day’s key highlights, it doesn’t include gratuities, which are optional.

Travelers are responsible for any food and beverages they purchase throughout the day unless otherwise stated.

Plus, the tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up or return transportation. Guests must make their own way to the designated meeting point and arrange their own transportation at the end of the tour.

These exclusions allow the tour operator to keep the base price affordable while providing a comprehensive sightseeing experience across multiple locations in and around London.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?

The tour may not be suitable for people with limited mobility. The itinerary includes walking at Leeds Castle and Canterbury, and the photo stop at the White Cliffs of Dover requires navigating uneven terrain. However, transportation is provided by a coach.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so participants should plan to bring their own or purchase from the various food and drink offerings available at the Christmas market in Canterbury.

Can We Extend Our Stay in Any of the Destinations?

No, the tour itinerary does not allow for extended stays at any of the destinations. The tour has a fixed schedule and ends at approximately 6:30 PM in London Victoria. Participants must adhere to the provided timeline.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

There is no mention of any discounts for children or seniors in the tour overview. The price is listed as £99.00 per person, with no indication of reduced rates for certain age groups.

How Many Stops Are There During the Tour?

The tour includes 5 stops: Leeds Castle, Canterbury, the White Cliffs of Dover, Greenwich, and the tour ends at London Victoria. The tour duration is 10 hours with a live guide in English.

The Sum Up

This day trip from London offers a delightful blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty. Explore the captivating Leeds Castle, learn about the festive charm of Canterbury’s Christmas market, witness the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, and discover the UNESCO heritage site of Greenwich. It’s a well-rounded experience that showcases the diverse wonders of England’s southeast region.

You can check availability for your dates here: