Trains to Canterbury

Tue 25 Aug
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Popular departures

Train tickets to Canterbury

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Showing the fastest and cheapest results for 25 Aug

Results include alternative arrival locations to Canterbury
  • SoutheasternP86296
    14:401h26
    London Victoria (VIC)
    16:06Canterbury East (CBE)
    £81One-way
    0 changes
  • SoutheasternP89042
    14:431h36
    London Bridge (LBG)
    16:19Canterbury West (CBW)
    £81One-way
    0 changes
  • SoutheasternP89045_P89048
    15:131h48
    London Bridge (LBG)
    17:01Canterbury West (CBW)
    £101One-way
    0 changes

Best day trips from Canterbury by train

The most popular day trips by train from Canterbury are London, Dover, Whitstable, Margate and Ramsgate. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Canterbury on Omio.

A view of London

Day trip from Canterbury to London by train

Why visit London for the day?

London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.

How to get from Canterbury to London by train?

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 87 km distance in 54m.

A view of Dover

Day trip from Canterbury to Dover by train

Why visit Dover for the day?

Dover is a historic Kent port known for the White Cliffs and Dover Castle. Its busy harbour, wartime past and chalk coastline give the town a distinctly maritime character.

How to get from Canterbury to Dover by train?

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 22 km distance in 29m.

A view of Whitstable

Day trip from Canterbury to Whitstable by train

Why visit Whitstable for the day?

Whitstable is a north Kent seaside town known for oysters, a working harbour and a relaxed maritime feel. Its shingle beach, beach huts and independent cafés give it an easy-going character shaped by fishing traditions.

How to get from Canterbury to Whitstable by train?

The earliest train runs at 04:59, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 10 km distance in 32m.

A view of Margate

Day trip from Canterbury to Margate by train

Why visit Margate for the day?

Margate is a Kent seaside town known for its sandy beach, Dreamland and the Turner Contemporary. Its old town, tidal pool and broad seafront give it a relaxed character that blends resort nostalgia with a lively creative scene.

How to get from Canterbury to Margate by train?

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 34m.

A view of Ramsgate

Day trip from Canterbury to Ramsgate by train

Why visit Ramsgate for the day?

Ramsgate is a Kent seaside town known for its Royal Harbour, elegant seafront and sandy beach. Its maritime history, links to the Dunkirk evacuation and lively waterfront give it a practical, historic character.

How to get from Canterbury to Ramsgate by train?

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:43. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 22m.

How to Get to Canterbury by Train

Canterbury in Kent is served by two stations, with Canterbury West being the main and busier of the two. Both Canterbury West and Canterbury Easy are within an easy walk of the historic shopping centre of Canterbury - ideal for a day visit. Several bus routes stop at the stations and provide links to different parts of Canterbury as well as the coast at Whitstable. There is also a taxi office outside the station. Trains into Canterbury West are operated by Southeastern Trains and it is on the high speed line which runs from London St. Pancras through Ashford in Kent. Trains come into Canterbury West from London Charing Cross via Ashford and Sevenoaks and from Margate through Ramsgate. Canterbury East, also operated by Southeastern, has two trains an hour to Dover and two trains an hour to London Victoria.

Canterbury

Canterbury itself is a historic town within easy reach of beautiful countryside and the coast at Whitstable and Herne Bay. Any visit to the city must start with the cathedral, the oldest in England, which is at the heart of the town. Parts of the cathedral date back to the 11th century; look out for the stained glass medieval windows illustrating stories about St. Thomas, its patron saint. For a breath of fresh air, spend some time in the Westgate Gardens, where eleven acres of park stretch along the banks of the River Stour. Families can enjoy a visit to nearby Howlett's Wild Animal Park set in vast ancient parkland.

Popular trains to and from Canterbury

Popular trains to Canterbury

London to Canterbury train

from £10
Direct trains available
1h24 average duration
9trains per day
Served by
  • Thameslink
  • Southeastern

Oxford to Canterbury train

from £17
Direct trains available
2h34 average duration
8trains per day
Served by
  • Great Western Railway
  • Southeastern

Stratford to Canterbury train

from £18
Direct trains available
0h46 average duration
16trains per day
Served by
  • Southeastern

London Heathrow Airport to Canterbury train

from £33
Direct trains available
2h09 average duration
21trains per day
Served by
  • Elizabeth line
  • Southeastern

Manchester to Canterbury train

from £38
Direct trains available
4h00 average duration
7trains per day
Served by
  • London North Eastern Railway
  • Avanti West Coast
  • East Midlands Railway

Popular trains from Canterbury

Canterbury to Dover train

from £8
Direct trains available
0h25 average duration
6trains per day
Served by
  • Southeastern

Canterbury to London train

from £9
Direct trains available
1h23 average duration
12trains per day
Served by
  • Thameslink
  • Southeastern

Canterbury to Bournemouth train

from £24
Direct trains available
4h20 average duration
7trains per day
Served by
  • CrossCountry
  • South Western Railway
  • Southern

Canterbury to Edinburgh train

from £58
Direct trains available
5h48 average duration
7trains per day
Served by
  • London North Eastern Railway
  • Lumo
  • Avanti West Coast
  • CrossCountry

Canterbury to Newcastle train

from £58
Direct trains available
4h17 average duration
6trains per day
Served by
  • London North Eastern Railway
  • Lumo

How to Get to Canterbury by Train

Canterbury in Kent is served by two stations, with Canterbury West being the main and busier of the two. Both Canterbury West and Canterbury Easy are within an easy walk of the historic shopping centre of Canterbury - ideal for a day visit. Several bus routes stop at the stations and provide links to different parts of Canterbury as well as the coast at Whitstable. There is also a taxi office outside the station. Trains into Canterbury West are operated by Southeastern Trains and it is on the high speed line which runs from London St. Pancras through Ashford in Kent. Trains come into Canterbury West from London Charing Cross via Ashford and Sevenoaks and from Margate through Ramsgate. Canterbury East, also operated by Southeastern, has two trains an hour to Dover and two trains an hour to London Victoria.

Canterbury

Canterbury itself is a historic town within easy reach of beautiful countryside and the coast at Whitstable and Herne Bay. Any visit to the city must start with the cathedral, the oldest in England, which is at the heart of the town. Parts of the cathedral date back to the 11th century; look out for the stained glass medieval windows illustrating stories about St. Thomas, its patron saint. For a breath of fresh air, spend some time in the Westgate Gardens, where eleven acres of park stretch along the banks of the River Stour. Families can enjoy a visit to nearby Howlett's Wild Animal Park set in vast ancient parkland.

Train companies: Southeastern, Thameslink to Canterbury trainsTravel to Canterbury on Southeastern, Thameslink trains with Omio. When comparing schedules and tickets, we will also show you other options with multiple connections or other travel modes if they’re available.

Southeastern

About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest Price
£10
Southeastern frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Family area

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 4m
Cheapest Price
£45
Thameslink frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Family area

Complete guide to Canterbury

Things to do in Canterbury

Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.

  • Recommended

The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge

Engaging Roman museum built around the remains of a town house. See mosaics, artefacts and displays that bring Roman Canterbury to life.

  • Recommended

Canterbury Roman Museum

Interactive museum on the site of Roman Canterbury, with preserved pavement mosaics, finds and family-friendly interpretation underground.

  • Recommended

The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge

Local museum and gallery with art, ceramics, natural history and changing displays. Good for a broad introduction to the city and region.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for England: hotels and dining are pricier than smaller UK towns, but local buses and casual meals stay manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£50+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: rounding up is enough. Taxis: round up or add about 10% for good service.

station information and facilities

Train stations in Canterbury

Check where to Canterbury trains depart and arrive, plus the main train station details for this route.

Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre

Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · £3 · every ~22 min

Canterbury West train station facilities and services

Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Canterbury West.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Canterbury West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Canterbury West: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre

Bus649 · 9m

Canterbury East train station facilities and services

Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Canterbury East.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Canterbury East: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Canterbury East or Canterbury WestStation Rd E, Canterbury CT1 2RB, UKAccessibility

Canterbury East or Canterbury West train station facilities and services

Canterbury East or Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East or Canterbury West: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.

Trains to Canterbury: related information

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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