Canterbury & Cinque Ports

Visit the fabulous ecclesiastical district of Canterbury, including Herne Bay,Whitstable coastal resorts and the historic and ceremonial Cinque Ports.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Hotels for 4 nights with welcome drink, breakfast & dinner and tea/coffee served after dinner
• Included excursions to Dover Castle and Secret Garden of Sandwich
• Included excursion to Canterbury with guided tour of Canterbury CathedralDAY 1 Departure: A morning departure, stopping for lunch and refreshments en route to our hotel.

DAYS 2-4 At leisure with three included excursions. Canterbury and guided tour of Canterbury Cathedral: Canterbury City is famous for its history, heritage and culture. The cities stunning architecture and world famous buildings only tell part of the story. The ancient ruins of St. Augustine’s Abbey and St. Martin’s Church form Canterbury’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites while other ancient ruins such as the Castle are reminders of the city's magnificent and glorious past. The east of Kent contains all the elements of an exciting and memorable holiday. Much of the countryside and surrounding landscapes are Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The winding rivers, flourishing green pastures, fields of flora, and ancient woodland offer relaxation and recreation. Canterbury Cathedral lies at the centre of the historic city of Canterbury in the heart of Kent. A tour of this stunning site is sure to be a memorable highlight. Since the Middle Ages Pilgrims and visitors have made their way to Canterbury Cathedral. Today it remains one of the most visited attractions in the country. Since ancient time visitors have been welcomed with Benedictine hospitality and that tradition continues within the unique atmosphere of one of the great holy places of Christendom.

Dover Castle: Situated proudly above the White Cliffs of Dover is the magnificent Dover Castle. Founded in the 12th century the castle is the oldest fort in England. Due to its prime location overlooking the English Channel, Dover Castle has experienced defensive significance throughout history and has guarded our shores from invasion for 20 centuries. Originally strengthened from an Anglo-Saxon fort in 1066 by William the Conqueror further additions were made by Henry II and Henry VIII. In more recent history the castles defences were successively updated in response to every European war involving Britain, most famously with the use of the secret tunnels in WW2.

Included excursion to Secret Garden of Sandwich: Discover the finest garden in Kent. The secret Gardens of Sandwich offers an eclectic and tranquil experience that takes over all the senses. Encircled by the old stone city walls a leisurely walk through the gardens is a superb way to spend a few hours. At the heart of the attraction stands The Salutation, a Grade 1 listed manor house, which was designed by famous English architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. For a taste of elegant England and fine hospitality, a visit to the special Tea Rooms situated inside the Old Gatehouse are a must, thus evoking the famous Edwardian traditions of taking tea with delicious Cream teas and home-made cakes.

LAST DAY Travel home We depart home, stopping en route for lunch, arriving home during the evening.Best Western Stade Court Hotel in Hythe, Kent

This iconic hotel is one of the Cinque Port’s landmarks, and is situated in a superb seafront position. For a true taste of coastal life, the hotels restaurants serve local fish caught 200 yards along the seafront! The hotels 42 en suite bedrooms feature TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a lift to all floors and porterage is included. Guests can also enjoy a welcome drink and tea and coffee served after dinner.