Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Southern England on our 5-day self-guided walking holiday along the North Downs Way Canterbury Loop. This journey strikes the perfect balance between independence and convenience, allowing you to explore at your own pace while we take care of the details.
Starting in the historic city of Canterbury, you’ll embark on a scenic adventure through the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Your route takes you from Canterbury to Shepherdswell, before heading to the iconic white cliffs of Dover and the vibrant coastal town of Folkestone. From there, the trail leads inland to the peaceful village of Wye, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills and ancient woodlands before returning to Canterbury.
With our self-guided package, you’ll enjoy complete freedom, supported by detailed route notes, maps, and luggage transfers between accommodations, so you can walk unencumbered. Each evening, you'll relax in comfortable, carefully selected accommodations. Plus, should you need assistance at any time, we’re just a phone call away.
This 5-day adventure is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and groups looking for a stress-free way to experience one of England’s most scenic trails. Book your self-guided holiday today and set off on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Kent from Canterbury to Dover and beyond!
This 11-mile stretch of the North Downs Way takes you from the historic city of Canterbury into the peaceful Kentish countryside. The route passes through a mix of open fields, woodlands, and quiet villages, offering tranquil views along the way. You’ll journey through Patrixbourne and Womenswold before arriving in Shepherdswell, a charming village known for its rural beauty. This pleasant and moderately challenging walk provides a wonderful blend of history, nature, and scenic landscapes.
This 9-mile stretch of the North Downs Way takes you from the quiet village of Shepherdswell to the iconic coastal town of Dover. The route leads through rolling hills, lush woodlands, and open countryside before offering dramatic views as you approach Dover's famous White Cliffs. The walk finishes at Dover Castle, providing a mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks. A shorter yet rewarding section, it’s perfect for those looking to experience both countryside charm and coastal scenery.
This 9.2-mile stretch of the North Downs Way takes you from the historic town of Dover to the vibrant coastal town of Folkestone. The route winds through rolling hills, peaceful woodland, and open countryside, offering breathtaking views of the English Channel as you approach Folkestone. Along the way, you'll encounter iconic chalk cliffs and enjoy panoramic coastal scenery. The walk finishes at Folkestone’s charming seafront, blending natural beauty with the town's artistic vibe. It's a rewarding section for those seeking a mix of countryside tranquility and dramatic coastal landscapes.
This 15-mile stretch of the North Downs Way takes you from the lively coastal town of Folkestone to the charming village of Wye. The route meanders through rolling hills, picturesque woodlands, and expansive countryside, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. As you walk, you'll encounter vibrant meadows and gentle slopes that showcase the beauty of the Kent countryside. The journey concludes in the idyllic village of Wye, known for its historic architecture and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a delightful section for those looking to experience the tranquility of rural life along with breathtaking scenery.
This 15-mile stretch of the North Downs Way takes you from the picturesque village of Wye to the historic city of Canterbury. The route traverses rolling hills, charming woodlands, and open fields, offering stunning views of the Kent countryside along the way. As you walk, you'll encounter beautiful meadows and vibrant flora, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for nature lovers. The journey culminates in the magnificent city of Canterbury, known for its rich history and iconic cathedral. This section is ideal for those seeking a blend of rural tranquility and urban heritage.
Accommodation Information
Overnight in B&B’s, small hotels and guesthouses, specifically chosen to ensure that you enjoy every minute of your stay. They all offer a warm welcome to walkers and traditional hospitality.
Accommodation Location
We will always try and accommodate you at the locations detailed in the tour itinerary. Occasionally, because of limited availability, we may have to accommodate you into alternative accommodations which are not listed in the description. If those listed are unavailable the alternative accommodation will be of the same or better standard than those described.
Solo Walkers & Single Rooms
This tour is available to solo walkers, although a supplement is payable. If you require single rooms within your party we would be happy to accommodate your request. A single supplement is also payable.
****Due to a lack of accommodation in some parts, you will likely be overnighting in nearby location with a return transfer back to starting point the following morning.
Trains depart from some of London's major stations—including St Pancras, Charing Cross and Victoria—allowing you to select the most convenient option for your journey. However, for the quickest service, opt for trains leaving from St Pancras.
In Canterbury, trains arrive at one of two stations: Canterbury West or Canterbury East, both of which are within walking distance of the city centre.
Canterbury is about 1.5 hour drive from London via A2 & M2. There are plenty of car parks located around the city.
Take a bus from London Victoria to Canterbury with National Express. In Canterbury, the bus stop is centrally located and within a short walking distance to all of the major attractions in the city.