Christmas in Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich With Christmas Lunch

Discover the enchantment of a British Christmas with this captivating tour through Canterbury, Dover, and Greenwich. Enjoy the rich history and festive spirit of these iconic destinations, from the awe-inspiring Canterbury Cathedral to the picturesque English countryside. Indulge in a delectable 3-course Christmas lunch featuring traditional British fare, then embark on a scenic drive showcasing the renowned White Cliffs of Dover. This intimate journey, limited to just 52 travelers, offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of the season in a way that seamlessly blends cultural exploration and holiday cheer. What awaits you in this enchanting winter wonderland?

Key Points

• This festive tour takes visitors to historic English cities like Canterbury, Dover, and Greenwich, with the highlight being a Sung Eucharist service at Canterbury Cathedral.

• The tour includes a 3-course Christmas lunch at a local Canterbury restaurant, offering a chance to savor traditional British holiday fare.

• The tour emphasizes a comprehensive Christmas experience, with limited time for independent exploration due to a tight schedule.

• Transportation is provided via modern, comfortable vehicles, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

• The tour has an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guide and scenic drive, but some disappointment regarding the limited time in each destination.

Tour Overview

This tour offers a festive journey to the historic cities of Canterbury, Dover, and Greenwich during the Christmas season.

It includes entry to the Sung Eucharist service at Canterbury Cathedral, a 3-course Christmas lunch, luxury coach transport, and a professional guide.

With a maximum of 52 travelers per tour, it provides an intimate experience. However, the tour is non-refundable, and there are no refunds for cancellations.

The schedule includes an 8:30 am departure from London Victoria, returning around 6:00 pm to the same location.

The modern, comfortable vehicles are maintained to high cleanliness standards but aren’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate fitness level is required.

Meeting Information

Travelers convene at the departure point of London Victoria, Bulleid Way, SW1W 9SH, which is a 7-minute walk from Victoria station.

The tour departs promptly at 8:30 am, so it’s essential to arrive by 8:00 am for check-in. The tour returns to the same location around 6:00 pm, ensuring a full day of holiday festivities.

The schedule includes:

1. Check-in at 8:00 am
2. Departure at 8:30 am
3. Canterbury Cathedral’s Sung Eucharist service
4. Approximate return to London at 6:00 pm

Participants should note that this tour is non-refundable, and no refunds are available for cancellations.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour utilizes modern, comfortable vehicles that are maintained to high cleanliness standards, with daily deep cleaning.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, as infants must sit on laps.

Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour involves some walking.

While the transportation is well-maintained, the schedule may be tight, leaving limited time for exploring the towns visited.

The tour is designed to provide a comprehensive Christmas experience, focusing on the key attractions in Canterbury, Dover, and Greenwich, rather than extensive independent exploration.

Canterbury Cathedral Visit

Although the tour’s schedule is tight, travelers can look forward to the highlight of the day – the Sung Eucharist service at Canterbury Cathedral.

The 11th-century Gothic cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. During the service, travelers will:

1. Experience the angelic voices of the cathedral choir as they fill the vast interior with sacred hymns.
2. Admire the intricate stained glass windows, casting colorful light throughout the cathedral.
3. Observe the clergy performing the traditional Christmas Eucharist ceremony.
4. Soak in the serene, spiritual atmosphere of this iconic place of worship.

This special service is sure to leave a lasting impression and set the tone for the rest of the festive day.

Christmas Lunch in Canterbury

After the Sung Eucharist service, the group heads to a local Canterbury restaurant for a delightful 3-course Christmas lunch.

The menu features traditional festive fare, including roasted turkey with all the trimmings, decadent Christmas pudding, and a selection of seasonal vegetables.

The lunch provides an opportunity for the travelers to savor the flavors of a classic British Christmas while enjoying the charming atmosphere of Canterbury.

The meal is a highlight of the tour, allowing the participants to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy the holiday spirit before continuing on to the next destination.

Scenic Drive to Dover

Next, the group sets off on a scenic drive to the historic town of Dover.

The luxury coach winds its way through the picturesque English countryside, offering passengers breathtaking views along the way.

The journey includes:

1. Passing by quaint villages and rolling hills blanketed in snow.
2. Catching glimpses of the famous White Cliffs of Dover in the distance.
3. Spotting charming cottages adorned with twinkling Christmas lights.
4. Witnessing the transition from the rural landscape to the coastal town of Dover.

The guide points out landmarks and shares historical anecdotes, enhancing the sightseeing experience.

Travelers can sit back, relax, and soak in the holiday atmosphere during the drive.

Exploring Historic Dover

Upon arrival in Dover, the group disembarks from the coach and follows the guide through the historic town center.

They explore the iconic Dover Castle, a mighty medieval fortress that has guarded the English coast for centuries.

The travelers marvel at the impressive white cliffs of Dover, a famous natural wonder that has inspired artists and poets.

The guide provides insights into the town’s rich maritime history, including its role as a major port and its involvement in significant events like the Battle of Britain.

With limited time, the group focuses on the must-see sights before reboarding the coach for the journey to Greenwich.

Tour Feedback and Reviews

Travelers who embarked on the Christmas tour of Canterbury, Dover, and Greenwich shared their experiences through reviews.

The overall rating for the tour was a solid 4.0 out of 5, with positive notes on the knowledgeable guide and the scenic drive.

However, some travelers expressed disappointment about the limited time in Canterbury and Dover, with the majority of the day spent on the coach.

The tour received criticism for not allowing enough time for participants to explore the towns more thoroughly.

The review feedback suggests the need for a better balance between the transportation and on-site exploration components of the tour.

Recap

This festive tour offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and Christmas cheer. Travelers will experience the beauty of Canterbury Cathedral, enjoy a traditional British Christmas lunch, and witness the stunning White Cliffs of Dover. With its intimate group size and comprehensive itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable holiday adventure in the heart of England.