The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Canterbury, England to Paignton, England

Canterbury and Paignton are two beautiful cities in England that are separated by around 370 miles. Taking a road trip between them can be a marvelous experience with stunning views, amazing food, and exciting activities. This article will explore some of the best things to do on this road trip, including a stop at the halfway point in Andover, HAM.

Highlights of the Trip

The road trip from Canterbury to Paignton is a journey of around 370 miles that takes around 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Along the way, visitors will experience some of the most beautiful landscapes in England, and have the opportunity to explore several small towns and villages.

The halfway point of the journey is Andover, a small town in Hampshire that acts as a gateway to the South West of England. This beautiful town has a rich history, with many historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can spend a few hours exploring Andover’s Old Town and High Street, which are lined with numerous shops, cafes, and pubs.

Once visitors have explored Andover, they can continue the journey to Paignton, passing through a number of quaint villages and towns, including Tiverton, Exeter, Newton Abbot, and Torquay.

1. The Canterbury Tales

The Canterbury Tales is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Canterbury. The attraction takes visitors back to medieval England, offering an immersive experience of the famous stories of Geoffrey Chaucer. The attraction includes a range of exhibits and features, including costumed guides, live performances, and reconstructions of medieval scenes. Visitors can explore the 14th-century pilgrim’s journey from London to Canterbury while listening to the tale’s many characters.

Interesting fact: Canterbury Tales has won several awards, including the Best Attraction for Families at the Group Travel Awards.

2. Quex Park

Quex Park is a popular tourist attraction located in Birchington on the outskirts of Margate. The attraction is home to the Powell-Cotton Museum, supporting the study and conservation of Africa’s wildlife and other cultures. The park has 15 acres of gardens, castles, and museums, and several activities. Visitors can explore a vast and diverse collection of stuffed animals, artifacts, and sculptures inspired by African cultures. Apart from animal exhibits, visitors can walk through the many gardens containing exotic plants, or let kids play on the on-site adventure land.

Interesting fact: Quex Park was named after the Quex family, who lived on the property for several generations.

3. The Roman Baths & Pump Rooms

The Roman Baths and Pump Room is among the most iconic and historically significant sites in Bath. The attraction features the Great Bath and Temple Pediment Museum, as well as several other exhibits, displays, and architectural feats throughout the site. The site is a beautifully preserved testament to the Roman Empire's influence on England, and visitors can explore the baths while learning about the history of this magnificent place.

Interesting fact: The building on display was initially erected during the Roman period and is an example of Roman engineering.

4. Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo is a great place to be for animal lovers. It is an enormous 80-acre zoo set in beautiful grounds alongside the stunning coastlines of Torbay. It is home to more than 2,500 animals, including elephants, giraffes, gorillas, and other exotic creatures. The zoo has a range of activities, including daily animal shows, feeding sessions, and a tropical bird show.

Interesting fact: The zoo’s gorilla’s use sign language to communicate with humans.

5. Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company

The Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company is a charming and historic attraction that offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning South Devon coastline. The attraction includes a steam railway ride and a riverboat cruise, taking visitors on an adventure down the River Dart to Dartmouth. During the journey, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the South Devon coast and the beautiful countryside.

Interesting fact: The railway line to Kingswear was opened in 1864 and was famously used by Queen Victoria to visit Balmoral.

Conclusion

The road trip from Canterbury to Paignton offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most beautiful and historic places in England. The journey takes visitors through several quaint towns and villages, allowing them to experience the country’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, beautiful architecture, or stunning scenery, this road trip has something to offer everyone. Visitors can expect a journey of around six hours, but with so much to explore along the way, it's definitely worth taking things slow to enjoy it all.