A Road Trip to Remember: Exploring Edinburgh and Canterbury

Edinburgh and Canterbury are two quintessential cities that should be on everyone's travel bucket list. A road trip from Edinburgh to Canterbury can be a great way to explore the unique and diverse cultures of the UK. The journey covers a distance of 520 miles, with the halfway point being Doncaster, XSY.

Top Five Things to Do on Your Road Trip

1. Royal Mile, Edinburgh

The Royal Mile is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the rich history and culture of Edinburgh. The Royal Mile stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, covering a distance of one mile. Visitors will come across various historical sites and attractions, such as St. Giles' Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament. The street is also dotted with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Interesting fact: The Royal Mile was originally two streets - Castlehill and Lawnmarket - which were merged in the 15th century.

2. Edinburgh Castle

Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is an iconic attraction that dates back to the 12th century. The castle has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and fortress over the centuries. Visitors can tour the castle's interior, which houses the famous Honours of Scotland - the Scottish Crown Jewels.

Interesting fact: The One O'Clock Gun, a time signal that has been fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861, was initially a visual signal to ships in the Edinburgh Port.

3. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Located in Wiltshire, Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument that dates back over 5000 years. The site comprises of a ring of standing stones that weighs around 25 tons each. The purpose behind its construction remains shrouded in mystery, but many believe it to have been a religious or ceremonial site.

Interesting fact: Stonehenge was not built overnight - it took several iterations and changes over an extended period, making it even more remarkable.

4. Canterbury Cathedral, Kent

Canterbury Cathedral, located in Kent, is one of the oldest and most significant Christian structures in the UK. The cathedral dates back to the 11th century, with construction starting in 1070 AD. It is the headquarters of the Anglican Church, and the Archbishop of Canterbury is also the head of the Church worldwide.

Interesting fact: With Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, Canterbury Cathedral was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.

5. Leeds Castle, Kent

Leeds Castle, located in Kent, is a stunning fortress that exudes a rich history and charm. The castle dates back over 900 years, with the first stone castle constructed in 1119 AD. Visitors can explore the castle's 900-year history, including its time as a royal palace, freshwater fortress, and a prison during World War I.

Interesting fact: Leeds Castle was once described by historian Lord Conway as the 'loveliest castle in the world.'

Conclusion

A road trip from Edinburgh to Canterbury can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It covers a distance of 520 miles, with notable stops at Doncaster, XSY, Stonehenge, and Leeds Castle. With endless sights to see and experiences to be had, the journey can take around 8-10 days, depending on the number of stops and duration of stay at each destination. Such a road trip can be an excellent way to explore two quintessential UK destinations while creating unforgettable memories.