| Important Information about London to South England Trip | |
|---|---|
| Duration of Trip | 1 Day |
| Best Time to visit | March to January, September to November |
| Type of Trip | Road Trip |
| Total Distance | 135 Km |
| What is South England Famous for | History, Architecture, Castles |
When thinking of epic road trips, southern England might not pop up in your head instantly. But there really is no reason it shouldn’t make its way onto your bucket list!
England’s countryside is filled with adorable little villages, gorgeous historic buildings, nature, and incredible food.
With sprawling moors, beautiful beaches, and staggering cliffs, the south coast of England is the perfect plan for a road trip from London. One could easily spend up to two to three weeks exploring South England that spans over 1,000 kilometers, but you have only one day to spare, then this guide is for you. You can hire a rental car to customize your road trip as per your schedule. This day trip to the South Coast of England will take you through the beautiful countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. So, what are you waiting for? Hop on to your rental car and get ready for a thrilling experience.
On this road trip from London, along the way, you can wander through the historic towns of Canterbury, and learn about the stories behind the transformation on Leeds Castle by Henry VIII. Driving through England’s stunning southern coastline in a rental car is an epic London road trip that you will never forget.
Complete Itinerary for London to South England Day Trip by Car Rental
Pick-up in London Downtown
For your South England road trip from London, get your rental car from London downtown. You can also pick a car from London Airport or any other location as per your convenience, and head to your journey.
1 Onto to Canterbury
- 97.7 km from London via M2/A2
With a drive of almost an hour and a half via M2 and A2, reach Canterbury in Kent- one of the most historic towns of England. This cathedral city is filled with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, Roman walls, and one of the most prominent churches in all of England. Strolling through the streets of Canterbury involves learning about the Roman influence in the town and seeing some amazing architecture.
A trip to Canterbury is incomplete without visiting the Canterbury Cathedral- one of the oldest and most famous Christian establishments in England. Some people actually make pilgrimages to this church, which makes it a must-see. You will find plenty of other attractions to see in Canterbury. Some of them are:
- Canterbury Castle
- St. Augustine’s Abbey
- Canterbury Roman Museum
- Sir John Boys House
Places to Eat in Canterbury
- The Café du Soleil: serves Mediterranean cuisine
- One Pound Lane: best handmade cocktail
Where to Park your car Canterbury
- Millers Field Car Park
- Castle Row Car Park
Gas Stations in Canterbury
- RONTEC KINGSMEAD: Open until 11:00 pm hours
- Morrisons Petrol Station: Open until 9:00 pm
Places to Stay in Canterbury
Holiday Inn Express Canterbury: casual rooms with breakfast and parking
Canterbury Cathedral Lodge Hotel: luxury hotel on Cathedral grounds
2 Go on Safari at Big Cat Sanctuary
- 42.0 km from Canterbury via A2
With a 40 min drive on A2, you can reach the Big Cat Sanctuary, which is providing shelter to some of the most beautiful and endangered cats in the world. Home to over 50 cats including Jaguars, Sumatran Tigers, African Lions, and Snow Leopards to name just a few, this sanctuary is located in the heart of the Kent countryside. Initially, the 32-acre area began as a refuge for big cats, the site has now become a sanctuary.
The Sanctuary offers big cat experiences by providing big cat tours, overnight big cat safari nights, and individual and group photography days. However, visitors need to pre-book their visit in advance.
Places to Eat near Big Cat Sanctuary
- The Bell: Restaurant & Pub
- The Flying Horse: serves great pub lunches, steaks, and grills
Where to Park your car at Big Cat Sanctuary
- Vicarage Lane Car Park
- Palace Avenue Car Park
Gas Stations Stations near Big Cat Sanctuary
- Texaco Petrol Station: Open until 10:00 pm
- BP: Open until 10:00 pm
Best Places to Stay near Big Cat Sanctuary
- Chilston Park Hotel: upscale rooms with dining
- Frasers: luxury hotel with B&B
3 Head to Leeds Castle
- 15.3 km from Big Cat Sanctuary via A274/B2163
Leeds Castle in Kent, England, is 5 miles southeast of Maidstone. It is built on islands by the River Len to the east of the village of Leeds. Go back in time and learn all about the different owners of the castle. Discover the story of how Henry VIII transformed the castle from a fortification into a luxurious palace and how the castle was lived in by its last occupant, Lady Baillie, who lived in the house until 1974. Take a stroll to The Oriental Garden filled with running water, varieties of water birds, and a bridge in red that reaches out across the water.
One of the most picturesque places on the grounds of Leeds Castle is the Pavilion Lawn that offers an utterly gorgeous view of the castle itself.
Entry Fee for Leeds Castle
To visit Leeds Castle, you can purchase an online ticket from the Leeds Castle website. Your ticket will cover all access to the castle and the grounds, and there is plenty of parking available. Your ticket will remain valid for the next 364 days – so might save it.
Best Places to Eat near Leeds Castle
- Fish on the Green: serves great value seafood
- The Park Gate Inn: 16th-century pub serving food
Where to Park your car near Leeds Castle:
- Leeds Castle Car Park
- Leeds Castle Parking
Gas Stations near Leeds Castle:
- BP: Open until 10:00 pm
- Murco Service Station: Open until 9:00 pm
Best Places to Stay near Leeds Castle:
- Mercure Maidstone Great Danes: 4 Star hotel with a health club
- Hilton Maidstone: luxury hotel with spa facilities