The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Canterbury, England and Eastleigh, England
Canterbury and Eastleigh are two charming English towns that attract visitors with their history and beautiful landscapes. For those who are looking for a great road trip experience, combining the two towns is a perfect option. Travelers can expect to discover picturesque villages, scenic backroads, and landmarks that are abundant in history. Cobham, SRY is the halfway point, and it's one of the many highlights of the trip. The following are the top five things to do on this road trip.
1. Visit Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle is a historical landmark that dates back to the 12th century. It's located on an island in the middle of a lake, and it has been dubbed the "loveliest castle in the world." For those who are interested in history, the castle has a lot to offer. Visitors can explore the rooms that once housed kings and queens and admire the castle's impressive art collections. The castle has a beautiful garden that is spread across 500 acres, and it's worth exploring.
Fun fact: Leeds Castle has been used for various purposes such as stately home, a military hospital, and a convalescent home for children.
2. Discover Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular attraction for visitors. The cathedral has been standing for over 1400 years, and it's one of the most significant religious buildings in England. Visitors can walk through the cathedral's vast nave and admire the stained glass windows. The cathedral also has a rich history and was the site of the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170.
Fun fact: Canterbury Cathedral houses the oldest church foundation in England.
3. Visit Jane Austen's House Museum
Jane Austen is one of England's most beloved literary figures, and her house in Chawton is an unmissable attraction for literature fans. The house is where Austen wrote many of her famous works, including "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility." Visitors can explore the house's various rooms and learn about Austen's life and legacy.
Fun fact: Jane Austen's House Museum has an extensive collection of Austen's personal letters, including those written to her sister, Cassandra.
4. Explore the New Forest National Park
The New Forest National Park is a beautiful area that is full of wildlife and natural beauty. Travelers can explore the park's stunning landscapes, including hills, moors, forests, and wetlands. There are also many walking and cycling trails that visitors can enjoy. Additionally, the park is home to many animals, including deer, ponies, and wild boars.
Fun fact: The New Forest National Park is an ancient woodland, dating back to the end of the last ice age.
5. Visit the Mary Rose Museum
The Mary Rose Museum is located in Portsmouth and is a unique attraction for history buffs. The museum is home to the Mary Rose, a Tudor warship that was built in 1510. The ship sank in 1545 and was discovered in 1971. Visitors can explore the ship's various decks and see over 19,000 artifacts that were recovered from the wreckage.
Fun fact: The Mary Rose was one of the first warships to have a gun deck.
After visiting these incredible places, travelers can expect to have a trip that is full of fantastic memories. The trip itself takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes without traffic. It's a perfect option for travelers who are looking for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Overall, the road trip from Canterbury, England, to Eastleigh, England, offers a perfect balance of history, nature, and culture that will delight any traveler.