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How to get to Canterbury by train
| Routes | 1 |
| Trips per day | 9 |
| train lines | 4 |
| Stations | 2 |
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About Canterbury
Roman-era walls surround Canterbury's medieval city center, so you know visiting will be like a blast from the past. Start by exploring the cathedrals and castles that represent the city's history, like the Canterbury Cathedral. Also, don't miss the medieval Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, which combines education and big adventures in its historically-themed escape rooms.
If you're ready to enjoy the city's great outdoors, then head to the Barham and Adisham Walk, Beacon Hill Herne Bay, Belmont House and Gardens, or the Bigbury Camp. Wine connoisseurs will love swishing their wine glasses at several vineyards, breweries, and distilleries. You can drive to the scenic Chartham Vineyard or simply join a group brewery and distillery tour.
Canterbury is a very compact city, and most destinations within the city walls can be easily reached via a short walk. To travel to Canterbury, you can take a Southeastern train or a National Express bus.
Station Information
Image credit: Joshua Brown
Link to image attributionCanterbury West Railway Station is a small train station northwest of Canterbury Cathedral and most of the town's attractions and services. However, there are several restaurants, a supermarket, and plentiful parking right next to the station. You will find the main station buildings on the side of Platform 1, housing a café and public toilets. Platforms 1 and 2 both have waiting rooms. Southeastern trains on the Ashford to Ramsgate and the London to Ashford lines stop in Canterbury and connect to a robust rail network throughout the United Kingdom.
Popular train stations in Canterbury:
Canterbury West
Canterbury East
What train companies travel to Canterbury, United Kingdom?
Located in United Kingdom, Canterbury is accessible by train from one other city. You can choose from 9 daily scheduled trips when you search for trains to Canterbury on Wanderu. Avanti West Coast usually has the most trains on any given day.
Looking for other ways to get there? Bus tickets to Canterbury are also available..
Train companies serving Canterbury
| Train | Routes | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avanti West Coast | 1 | 3h 7m | $146.26 |
| Southeastern | 1 | 1h 32m | $42.22 |
| West Midlands Railway | 1 | 3h 56m | $122.43 |
| CrossCountry | 1 | 3h 19m | $122.32 |
Avanti West Coast is one of the primary rail links between London and Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. On any given day, Avanti West Coast operates almost 300 routes and departs hourly from select destinations.
Southeastern is a rail franchise that operates passenger train services between central London and southeast England. The company's fleet of over 300 trains stops at 180 stations across London, Kent, and East Sussex, and standard and first-class fares are available. First-class passengers enjoy dedicated areas, larger seats, more legroom, and a quieter travel experience. Onboard restrooms are available for all passengers.
CrossCountry operates an extensive rail network in the U.K., centered in Birmingham. In standard class, passengers enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms. Trains also contain a small café or a trolley that passes through the carriages. An upgrade to first-class gives passengers more legroom and complimentary food.
Frequently Asked Questions
The busiest train station in Canterbury is Canterbury West. As Canterbury's main station, it has the most trains coming and going. However, a popular alternative is Canterbury East.
| Departure | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|
| London | 1h 32m | $42.22 |
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