The Best Day Trip Itineraries from London to Kent for 2026

If you’re visiting London this year then it’s worth spending a day or two exploring the incredible and historic county of Kent. Known as the Garden of England, it can be as quick as 20 minutes away on the train and easy to explore.

London has a great history but a lot of that history is carved out of Kent’s role as defender of the capital and country. We’re created a list of itineraries for you to find out more about and hopefully discover as part of your trip to London, taking in some of the most famous sights like Canterbury Cathedral, exploring Leeds Castle and Hever Castle or doing a day trip to either Folkestone or Whitstable - classic seaside towns with tons of history and great pubs.

Finish the day with a tour of the most famous cathedral in England

White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip

One of the most scenic and best day trips from London, this combined White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury tour offers stunning coastal views, historic architecture and guided sightseeing in two of Kent’s most famous destinations.

Starting point: 148 Queen Victoria St, London
Travel: Bus / coach

Itinerary overview:

• Travel to Kent – 1.5 hours

• Kent countryside stop – 30 minutes free time

• Scenic drive and guided commentary – 45 minutes

• White Cliffs of Dover – 1.5 hours for photo stops, short walks and panoramic views

• Canterbury – 2 hours for guided tour, free time, shopping and sightseeing

• Canterbury Cathedral – 45-minute visit (optional, extra fee)

• Return to London – 2 hours back to 148 Queen Victoria St

This is an excellent choice for travellers with limited time who want to experience Kent’s dramatic coastline and medieval heritage in one day. You will enjoy breathtaking views over the English Channel, learn about Dover’s wartime history and explore the winding lanes of Canterbury, home to one of the UK’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Leeds Castle Day Trip from London

Often called the ‘loveliest castle in the world’, Leeds Castle is one of Kent’s top attractions and a perfect day trip for visitors of all ages. Surrounded by 500 acres of parkland, gardens and a tranquil lake, the castle offers an immersive experience of English history, royal architecture and landscaped beauty.

Visitors can explore the elegant state rooms, the medieval gatehouse, the spectacular aviary and the famous Leeds Castle Maze. Seasonal events, falconry displays and family-friendly activities make it a great day out at any time of year. The castle is easily reached by coach tours from London or by train to Bearsted with a shuttle connection.

A piece of Kent history: Leeds Castle

Gusbourne Wine Tasting Experience

Kent is at the heart of England’s booming wine industry, and Gusbourne Estate is one of the leading names in English sparkling wine. A day trip to Gusbourne offers a refined countryside escape featuring vineyard walks, tutored tastings and insights into the award-winning winemaking process.

Located near Appledore, the estate produces world-class sparkling wines that rival Champagne. Visitors can book a guided tasting, enjoy a leisurely lunch paired with curated wines and explore the picturesque vineyards that stretch across the Kentish landscape. It is ideal for couples, wine lovers and anyone looking for a luxury day trip from London.

Folkestone Day Trip

Folkestone has transformed into one of Kent’s most exciting coastal towns, making it a fantastic choice for a creative and food-focused day trip from London. With high-speed trains taking under an hour from St Pancras, it is easy to reach and packed with things to do.

Highlights include the Folkestone Harbour Arm, an award-winning leisure destination filled with street food, bars, live music and sea views. Visitors can stroll through the Creative Quarter, explore independent shops and galleries, or take in the coastal art installations along the England Coast Path. Whether you are after great food, seaside walks or a vibrant cultural scene, Folkestone delivers it all.

Folkestone’s Creative Quarter

Canterbury Cathedral Day Trip

For history lovers, a standalone day trip to Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most rewarding excursions from London. This UNESCO-listed site is the headquarters of the Church of England and a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

Visitors can explore the cathedral’s breathtaking nave, cloisters and stained glass windows, as well as learn about the story of Thomas Becket, whose murder in 1170 made Canterbury one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Europe. After your cathedral visit, the city’s narrow lanes, timber-framed buildings, independent shops and riverside walks offer plenty of additional sightseeing.

Hever Castle Day Trip

Hever Castle is a picture-perfect moated castle best known as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII. Surrounded by award-winning gardens, a large lake and beautifully landscaped grounds, Hever is one of Kent’s most charming historic attractions.

Inside the castle, you will find lavishly furnished rooms, Tudor artefacts and exhibitions on the Boleyn family and Tudor court life. Outdoors, visitors can enjoy the Italian Gardens, the rose garden, the yew maze and scenic walks around the lake. It is easily accessible from London via train to Edenbridge, with taxis and local transport options available.

Whitstable Day Trip

Whitstable is one of Kent’s most popular seaside towns, famous for its oysters, independent shops and colourful beach huts. It is the perfect relaxed day trip for travellers wanting a slower pace outside of London.

Visitors can wander the harbour, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, explore the boutiques on Harbour Street and take scenic coastal walks towards Tankerton and Seasalter. The town has a charming, laid-back atmosphere and is well connected by direct trains from London, making it a simple and enjoyable escape to the coast.

World-famous Whitstable Oysters

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