Traveling from London to Canterbury is a classic British journey that combines history, countryside charm, and efficient transport. Whether you want to explore the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, stroll along cobbled streets, or soak in peaceful Kentish landscapes, getting there from London is simple and enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to make the trip by train, bus, taxi, and from airports along with tips, accessibility info, and answers to the most common questions visitors have.
Where Is Canterbury Located?
Canterbury is a cathedral city in the county of Kent, in southeast England. It lies around 55 miles (90 km) from central London and sits on the River Stour.
Steeped in history, Canterbury’s origins go back to Roman times, but it’s best known as the seat of the Church of England and home to the awe-inspiring Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city is easily reachable from the capital, making it a popular day trip or weekend destination for visitors and locals alike.
For travellers interested in Britain’s rich heritage, exploring London’s historical sights before or after heading to Canterbury adds depth to the journey. From royal sites to centuries-old architecture, London also offers a compelling historical backdrop that complements Canterbury’s own cultural and religious significance. Once you arrive, you can discover a variety of top 10 things to do in Canterbury, from scenic river tours to exploring ancient Roman ruins and medieval lanes. This allows you to see how the royal history of the city pairs with the religious significance of Kent’s English countryside landscapes.
Getting There by London Underground (Tube)
You can’t take the London Underground directly to Canterbury simply because the Tube doesn’t extend that far. But you can use the Tube to reach major rail stations from which regular trains travel to Canterbury.
While Canterbury lies beyond the reach of the capital’s metropolitan lines, navigating the London Underground stations
is the first step for most travelers. Familiarizing yourself with the Tube network ensures a smooth transition from your accommodation to major rail hubs like St Pancras or Victoria. This efficiency makes Canterbury one of the most accessible and rewarding day trips from London for those looking to swap the city’s pace for the tranquility of Kent.
Here’s how to plan it:
Start With the Tube
To catch a train to Canterbury, you’ll need to travel to either London Victoria, London St Pancras International, or London Charing Cross all served by the Tube.
- Victoria Station:
Take the Victoria Line (light blue) if you’re near central London. It’s one of the easiest connections to reach Victoria. From there, you can board a train toward Canterbury. - St Pancras International:
The Piccadilly Line (dark blue) and Victoria Line both connect to St Pancras. This is a very popular starting point because high-speed trains run from here to Canterbury in under an hour. - Charing Cross Station:
Reachable via the Bakerloo Line or Northern Line. Trains from Charing Cross go to Canterbury West.
From These Stations to Canterbury
Once you arrive at one of the major rail hubs, follow signs to the mainline platforms. Trains to Canterbury are frequent, so you won’t usually wait long.
- From London St Pancras International:
Take a high-speed train toward Canterbury West. These services are operated by Southeastern and make the journey in about 55–65 minutes. - From London Victoria or Charing Cross:
You’ll find regular trains to Canterbury East or Canterbury West that take closer to 90–120 minutes, depending on the route and stops.
Getting There by (Bus)
Buses provide a budget-friendly option if you are flexible with time and looking to save money.
National Express Coaches
National Express operates buses from London Victoria Coach Station to Canterbury. The journey typically takes about 2–3 hours, depending on traffic.
Advantages of taking the bus:
- Lower cost compared to trains
- Comfortable seats, often with Wi-Fi and power sockets
- Luggage space
However, buses are slower and subject to road congestion. If you’re travelling during rush hour or holidays, the journey may take longer.
Booking Tips
- Buy tickets in advance online for the best fares.
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.
- Check the coach station signs and departure boards carefully. London Victoria Coach Station is large and busy.
Getting There by (Taxi)
If comfort and convenience are your priorities, a taxi or ride-hailing service from London to Canterbury can be arranged.
London to Canterbury by Taxi
This option is the most flexible: you can set off when you want, avoid transfers, and have door-to-door service.
However, it’s also the most expensive. Long-distance taxis from London to Canterbury can cost significantly more than trains or buses. Prices vary depending on time of day, traffic, and taxi company, but you should expect it to be a premium fare.
Where to Book
- Traditional black cabs (though expensive for long distances)
- Private hire cars booked via phone or apps
- Local taxi companies that offer long-distance services such as My London Transfer.
Advantages
- No need to navigate busy stations
- Luggage handled for you
- Comfort and privacy
Disadvantages
- Cost
- Potential traffic delays
Getting There from Airports
For international visitors or those landing in the UK, getting to Canterbury from the main airports is straightforward.
From Heathrow Airport
There’s no direct train from Heathrow to Canterbury. The simplest way is:
- Take the Heathrow Express or the Elizabeth Line into central London (Paddington or Liverpool Street).
- Transfer to the Tube and head to St Pancras International.
- Catch a train to Canterbury.
Travel time from Heathrow to Canterbury will usually be around 2.5–3 hours.
From Gatwick Airport
You have a couple of options:
- Train to London Victoria, then transfer to a train to Canterbury.
- Take a train toward London Bridge, then switch to a Canterbury service.
Total journey time is roughly 2–3 hours depending on connections.
From London Stansted
Stansted Airport has direct trains to London Liverpool Street. From there, take the Tube to St Pancras and then a train to Canterbury. This route typically takes 2.5–3 hours.
From London City Airport
Take the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) into central London, then switch to mainline trains via Bank or Tower Gateway stations. Then proceed to St Pancras for Canterbury.
Accessibility and Facilities
Canterbury is well equipped for visitors with varying accessibility needs, and the travel infrastructure supports this.
Train Stations
- London’s major stations (St Pancras, Victoria, Charing Cross) have lifts, step-free access, accessible toilets, and staff assistance.
- Canterbury West and Canterbury East also provide step-free access and facilities like waiting rooms and help points.
Buses and Coaches
- National Express coaches are wheelchair accessible.
- Drivers assist with boarding and luggage.
Stops and Platforms
It’s always best to ask for assistance in advance if you need help with boarding or navigating stations. Most UK rail services allow passengers to pre-book assistance.
Travel Tips For Visitors
Whether this is your first UK trip or you’re a seasoned traveller, a few simple tips can make your journey smooth and more enjoyable:
1. Book Ahead
Train ticket prices vary widely. Advance booking often gets you the best deals, especially on high-speed services.
2. Check Schedules
Schedules change depending on time of day and season. Always verify departure times before you travel.
3. Travel Off-Peak
If possible, avoid busy commuter times in the morning and evening. Trains and buses are less crowded midday.
4. Pack Light
Trains and buses handle luggage but keeping it manageable helps with transfers and comfort.
5. Bring Snacks and Water
Although trains sometimes have catering, having your own refreshments is convenient especially on buses.
6. Know Your Stops
Canterbury has two main stations: Canterbury West (more frequent high-speed services) and Canterbury East. Know which one your ticket is for.
7. Local Transport
Once in Canterbury, the city centre is compact. Many attractions are walkable, but buses and taxis are available if needed.
Conclusion
Travelling from London to Canterbury is a smooth and rewarding journey, whether you’re planning a short visit or an extended stay. With well-connected rail services, affordable coach options, and flexible road travel, travellers can easily choose a route that suits their schedule and budget. High-speed trains from St Pancras offer the fastest and reliable connection, while advance-booked coaches and standard rail services provide cost-effective alternatives. For those prioritising comfort, door-to-door travel or arriving via London’s airports, services like My London Transfer offer a seamless way to connect without the stress of multiple changes, and make sure the journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Can I book a taxi?
Yes you can book a taxi or private transfer from London to Canterbury. Contact local reliable london taxi transfer company or use ride-hailing apps to arrange a trip. Because of the distance, this is usually more expensive than public transport, but ideal if comfort and convenience are priorities.
2.How many hours will it take to reach Canterbury from London?
It depends on how you travel:
- High-speed train: Around 55–65 minutes
- Standard train: Around 90–120 minutes
- Bus/Coach: Around 2–3 hours
- Taxi: Around 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on traffic
Train times are generally most reliable and fastest overall.
3. What is the price of the cheapest ticket to travel to Canterbury?
Prices vary based on season and how early you book. Typically:
- Coach fares booked in advance are often the cheapest.
- Advance train tickets can also be very affordable if booked early.
- Last-minute or peak travel tickets cost more.
