Canterbury to Sandwich Historic Towns Tour

A small-group walking tour exploring Sandwich, one of England's five Cinque Ports, just 20 minutes from Canterbury. The tour covers medieval streets, timber-framed buildings, and local maritime history without the coach crowds of larger operators. Group size is capped at 16, making this ideal for travellers seeking a deeper dive into local history with a guide who knows the backstreets. Best for history buffs avoiding crowds. This is a easy activity lasting 6 hours. Group size: max 16. You meet at Westgate Towers. Key highlights: Sandwich's medieval High Street with Grade I and Grade II listed buildings, St. Clement's Church and the historic Guildhall, River Stour countryside walk from Canterbury.

Price: £55

Duration: 6 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: max 16

Minimum age: 8+

Best for: history buffs avoiding crowds

Best time: April–October for dry paths and good weather. May–June is best for wildflowers along the river walk. Avoid winter months when paths are waterlogged.

Meeting point: Westgate Towers

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

10:00am Meet at Westgate Towers, Canterbury - Group gathers outside the medieval gatehouse. Introductions and itinerary overview from your local guide.

10:15am–11:15am Walk to Sandwich via countryside footpath - 30-minute guided walk through fields and along the River Stour, arriving in Sandwich's medieval core.

11:15am–1:00pm Sandwich town walking tour - Guide leads you through narrow streets, past the Guildhall, St. Clement's Church, and historic merchants' houses. Stop for photos and historical anecdotes.

1:00pm–2:00pm Lunch at a local pub in Sandwich - Included meal (typically sandwiches, salads, or daily specials) and soft drinks at a traditional inn.

2:00pm–3:30pm Return walk to Canterbury - Guided walk back via the same footpath, with stops to discuss Cinque Ports history and local ecology.

3:30pm Arrive back at Westgate Towers - Tour concludes. Guide points out other nearby Canterbury attractions if you wish to extend your afternoon.

The whole experience takes 6 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Westgate Towers.

• Sandwich's medieval High Street with Grade I and Grade II listed buildings
• St. Clement's Church and the historic Guildhall
• River Stour countryside walk from Canterbury
• Cinque Ports maritime heritage and local history
• Small group size (max 16) with experienced local guide
• Lunch included at a traditional Sandwich pub
• Accessibility: Easy fitness level. The walk is mostly flat through fields and town streets, but countryside paths may be uneven or muddy. Not wheelchair accessible due to footpath terrain and narrow medieval streets. Suitable for ages 8+; younger children may struggle with the 6-hour duration.

What is included: Round-trip guided walk between Canterbury and Sandwich, Lunch (sandwich, salad, or hot option) and soft drink at local pub, Expert local guide, Time to explore Sandwich town centre.

Not included: Alcoholic drinks (soft drinks only), Entry to St. Clement's Church (usually free but donations welcome), Gratuities for guide. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes (countryside paths can be muddy), Waterproof jacket, Hat and sunscreen, Camera, Small backpack for layers. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: April–October for dry paths and good weather. May–June is best for wildflowers along the river walk. Avoid winter months when paths are waterlogged..

Tip: Small groups maximum 16

Tip: Includes pub lunch

Accessibility: Easy fitness level. The walk is mostly flat through fields and town streets, but countryside paths may be uneven or muddy. Not wheelchair accessible due to footpath terrain and narrow medieval streets. Suitable for ages 8+; younger children may struggle with the 6-hour duration..

Operator: Kent Countryside Tours

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Westgate Towers Museum (0 min (meeting point) walk)
• Canterbury Cathedral (5 min from Westgate walk)
• Canterbury Roman Museum (8 min from Westgate walk)

This activity is run by Kent Countryside Tours.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 48 hours; 50% refund 24–48 hours; non-refundable within 24 hours.

Accessibility: Easy fitness level. The walk is mostly flat through fields and town streets, but countryside paths may be uneven or muddy. Not wheelchair accessible due to footpath terrain and narrow medieval streets. Suitable for ages 8+; younger children may struggle with the 6-hour duration..

Best time to go: April–October for dry paths and good weather. May–June is best for wildflowers along the river walk. Avoid winter months when paths are waterlogged..

How far is Sandwich from Canterbury?

Sandwich is approximately 20 minutes away by road, but this tour walks via countryside, which takes 30 minutes each way. The walk is flat, easy, and follows marked footpaths along the River Stour.

What makes Sandwich a Cinque Port?

Sandwich is one of five medieval ports (Cinque Ports) on the Kent coast that were granted royal charters for trade and defence. The town still has ancient walls and served as a naval stronghold. Your guide will explain the full history during the tour.

Can I do this tour in winter?

Yes, but countryside paths may be muddy or waterlogged. Tours still run October–March, but wear waterproof boots. Summer (May–September) offers better weather and less mud, making it the preferred season.