Canterbury is a wonderful base to explore England’s lovely Southeast for a few hours, days, or longer. London-Canterbury travel is easy regardless of mode.
For ages, visitors have visited Canterbury, Kent, 600 miles from Central London. Sant Augustine converted the first Anglo-Saxons to Christianity in 597 CE at the current Anglican church. His burial site, St. Augustine’s Abbey, was a pilgrimage site until Canterbury Cathedral was built.
The Pilgrims’ Way, which runs from Winchester in Hampshire to Canterbury, was founded by these early pilgrims. The 90-mile Becket Way connects London to Canterbury and is England’s smaller Camino de Santiago equivalent.
How you get from London to Canterbury is up to you, but our guide will help you plan your visit.
1. From London to Canterbury by Car
Try to avoid rush hour and weekday traffic and drive from central London to Canterbury practically as fast as a normal train.
The hardest aspect of your travel is negotiating Central London traffic. If you leave early in the morning and return after all the commuters leave, it’s possible. It follows the ancient A2 road (most of which is four lanes and a “dual carriageway”) until it joins the quicker M2 for most of the way.
Canterbury has three wonderful ‘park and ride’ locations making parking easy. Leave your car and take a bus to visit the city center.
Of course, owning a car lets you pop into other intriguing places. Dover and Folkestone, both 30 minutes apart, are Victorian beach towns.
2. From London to Canterbury by Bus
Canterbury is close to London, making bus travel a cheap and convenient choice. National Express buses leave regularly from Victoria Coach Station and take 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you three to four hours to visit Canterbury’s top attractions.
The journey is cheap to travel at any time, but reserving ahead and traveling off-peak can save considerably more. If you want to spend a weekend in Canterbury or layover in Rochester, Chatham, or Maidstone, off-peak travel is a possibility.
3. From London to Canterbury by Train
Londoners love visiting England’s Southeast. Folkstone and Dover were among the first Kentish beach communities to be connected to the nation’s capital during the 1800s rail boom, often via Canterbury.
Today’s quick, efficient, and modern rail network cuts the 67-mile London-Canterbury route to under two hours. You could cut the trip to under an hour if you do your homework and make the appropriate connections.
Regular passenger rail services from London Bridge and Victoria connect Canterbury to London, not high-speed. The Underground and buses service both, and several central London hotels may be walked to. Apart from its closeness to your hotel, which station you utilize may vary on the time and day of the week you leave.
St. Pancras International, a third station, connects London to Ashford International, the Eurostar terminus to Europe, albeit it is more expensive. Quick—38 minutes. It takes 14 minutes to get to Canterbury, so you might spend less than an hour on a train.
London trains reach Canterbury West. A 10-minute walk down the city’s high street puts you at the cathedral precincts. For people with mobility challenges, buses and taxis are plentiful in the walkable city.
Planning beforehand can save you money and disappointment on any day of the week. Off-peak travel is cheap, so check South Eastern rail for advance ticket bargains. Book tickets through National Rail or consider the budget-friendly BritRail Pass.
Conclusion:
The journey from London to Canterbury offers a seamless transition from the bustling city to the historic charm of one of England’s most iconic destinations. Whether you choose to travel by train for a swift and scenic experience, take a leisurely bus ride allowing flexibility, or embark on a road trip for the freedom to explore at your pace, each option provides a unique perspective of the journey.
Canterbury, with its UNESCO-listed cathedral, medieval streets, and rich history, beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its cultural tapestry. The efficient train service, cost-effective buses, and the convenience of driving create a trifecta of travel choices, catering to different preferences and schedules.
FAQ’s
Q1. Why should I visit Canterbury from London?
Canterbury, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance, offers a delightful escape from London. The city is renowned for Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as charming streets, historic sites, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Q2. What are the best ways to travel from London to Canterbury?
The three best ways to travel from London to Canterbury are by train, bus, or car. Each option offers a convenient and comfortable journey, allowing you to choose based on your preferences and schedule.
Q3. How long does it take to travel from London to Canterbury by train?
The train journey from London to Canterbury typically takes around one hour, making it a quick and efficient option for a day trip or a weekend getaway. High-speed trains from London St Pancras International provide a direct connection to Canterbury West station.
