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The 3 Best Shore Excursions in Dover
Dover is one of the busiest cruise ports in England, and for good reason. Its location on the southeastern coast offers travelers easy access to iconic sights, historic castles, and charming towns—all within a manageable day trip. If you’re docking here, you’ll find plenty of options to make the most of your stop, whether you’re after a quick visit or a more in-depth exploration. Our favorites include tours that combine history with scenic beauty, like the Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle, a seamless way to see some of England’s highlights en route to London. Or, for a private experience, consider the Dover Cruise Terminal to London with Stopover at Dover Castle, which lets you customize your sightseeing. Lastly, the Dover Cruise Terminal to London Stopover at Dover & Leeds Castle offers a private, flexible approach to exploring these two iconic castles at your own pace.
What makes Dover such a great starting point for shore excursions? Its proximity to landmarks like Canterbury Cathedral, Leeds Castle, and the White Cliffs of Dover means you can experience a lot in just a few hours. Whether you prefer guided tours, private transfers, or independent exploration, Dover’s central location and well-developed infrastructure make it easy to craft a memorable day.
Below, we introduce three top-rated tours, each offering a different way to enjoy your time in Dover—ranging from group coach excursions to personalized private tours. Let’s look at what each has to offer.
1. Dover Shore Excursion: Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle
This popular 8-hour tour combines a scenic drive, historic sites, and a hassle-free transfer to London or Heathrow. It’s ideal if you want a little of everything—literature, medieval castles, and a smooth journey to the capital. The tour starts with a drive over the famous White Cliffs of Dover and into Kent, a county renowned for its orchards, vineyards, and hop fields.
Your first stop is Canterbury, a city that has been a spiritual hub since 597 AD. You’ll have the chance to admire the Canterbury Cathedral, famous for its Norman architecture and connection to Chaucer’s pilgrims. Your guide shares stories about Canterbury’s past, including tales from the Reformation and WWII. While exploring the town on your own, you can visit the Cathedral (own expense) or wander through charming streets lined with pubs and shops.
Next, the tour takes you to Leeds Castle, often called “the loveliest castle in the world.” The grounds are stunning, with formal gardens, a moat, and a medieval keep. Inside, you can explore the state rooms and learn about its royal connections. The tour includes a 3-hour visit with free time to enjoy the grounds or visit the castle interiors if you wish (admission not included).
Reviewers love the professionalism and friendly guidance—one reviewer mentions that their guide made the history come alive, highlighting the castle’s royal stories. The tour’s value is excellent, especially considering the convenient hotel drop-off in London. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day, without the hassle of planning.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, comfortable tour suited for history lovers and those wanting to see Canterbury and Leeds Castle en route to London.
2. Shore Excursion: Dover Cruise Terminal to London with Stopover at Dover Castle
If privacy and flexibility are your priorities, this private transfer and tour might be your best bet. For around $920 per group, up to three people, you get a customized experience that blends sightseeing with comfortable transportation. Your driver will meet you at the cruise terminal and take you on a scenic route to London, with memorable stops along the way.
First, you’ll visit the White Cliffs of Dover for about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to snap photos and breathe in the sea air. Then, you’ll head to Dover Castle, an iconic fortress that dates back to the 11th century. You can explore the Great Tower, underground hospital, and wartime tunnels—it’s a site packed with history, especially related to Operation Dynamo in 1940. The castle’s admission is not included, but the driver can help with tickets if you’d like.
On the way to London, the driver will also pass by the Tower of London, offering a quick glimpse of one of England’s most famous landmarks. The tour is highly praised for its professional driver and personalized attention, with reviews highlighting the ease of the private experience and the scenic drive.
This tour works best for families and groups seeking a more private, relaxed pace. It’s also suitable if you want to avoid crowded buses or want to include Dover’s historic fortress in your itinerary.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those who prefer personalized service and a flexible schedule, with the added bonus of exploring Dover Castle.
3. Shore Excursion: Dover Cruise Terminal to London Stopover at Dover & Leeds Castle
For travelers who want a private, comprehensive experience combining two of England’s most iconic castles, this 8-hour tour offers personalized attention and in-depth exploration. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see both Dover Castle and Leeds Castle without rushing.
Your guide will pick you up directly at the port, taking you in an air-conditioned vehicle to Dover Castle, where you can explore the medieval architecture and visit the underground tunnels used during WWII. The castle tends to close in winter (November to February), so it’s best to check the schedule beforehand. After about 2.5 hours, you’ll visit Leeds Castle, famous for its picturesque setting, lush gardens, and the Dog Collar Museum.
Since this is a private tour, you can set the pace and spend more time at each site if desired. The guide provides insights into the castles’ royal histories and stories of their strategic importance. The tour offers port pickup and drop-off, taking the stress out of navigation.
Reviewers note that this option is especially good for history enthusiasts and travelers who value comfort and a custom itinerary. It’s on the pricier side but delivers a tailored experience with the convenience of no fixed schedule.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for history buffs or those wanting a private, flexible tour to see Dover and Leeds Castle at a relaxed pace.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, interests, and desired level of comfort. The Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle offers a full, guided experience with a hotel drop-off—perfect for most travelers seeking a hassle-free day. If privacy and customization top your list, the private transfer with Dover Castle stop provides a flexible, intimate outing. And for those wanting a private, in-depth look at two castles with personal attention, the private tour visiting Dover and Leeds castles is the best fit.
Think about whether you want to include Canterbury Cathedral and the interior of Leeds Castle or prefer a straightforward visit. Also, check if you’re comfortable with the price difference, especially since some tours include transportation and others are more focused on entrance fees and entries.
Final Thoughts
Dover offers a variety of ways to make your stop memorable, from guided coach tours to private customized excursions. For a well-rounded experience that combines history, scenic views, and convenience, the Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle is highly recommended. If you prefer a private, tailored approach, the private tours provide flexibility and comfort.
No matter which option you choose, booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot and avoid disappointment. These tours are popular and fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.
With careful planning, your day in Dover can be a highlight—whether you’re marveling at medieval castles, wandering charming towns, or simply enjoying the scenic drive. Happy exploring!
