Leaving a cruise ship in Dover and heading towards London can be an exciting start to the next part of your trip. But first, you may want to know how to get from Dover Cruise Port to London, and that’s what this blog post explains to you.
We’ll take you through the transport options available, the routes you may come across, and some useful points to keep in mind before leaving the port. You will have a clearer idea of your decisions, so you can decide what works best for your plans, luggage, budget, and time.
What Is Dover Cruise Port?
Dover Cruise Port is a busy cruise terminal in Dover, Kent, on England’s south coast. It welcomes cruise ships carrying passengers to places across Europe and other parts of the world.
The port has several terminals where passengers can board or leave their cruise ships. It is also close to Dover’s famous white cliffs and Dover Castle.
How Far Is Dover Cruise Port from London?
Dover Cruise Port is around 75 to 85 miles (120 to 137 km) from central London. When you take Dover Cruise Port transfers to London, on the way you witness some of Kent’s main roads before reaching the London area.
- M20
The M20 is the main motorway connecting Dover to London transport. It runs through Kent and passes areas such as Folkestone, Ashford and Maidstone. This route takes you towards the M25, which connects with different parts of London and nearby airports.
- M25
The M25 is London’s orbital motorway and connects with the M20 near Swanley. Travellers heading towards different parts of London can use sections of the M25 before continuing onto roads leading into the city. Traffic can be busy around London.
- A2
The A2 is another main route between Dover and London. It passes through parts of Kent, which include Canterbury and Faversham, before continuing to the London area. Sometimes drivers may use the A2 to reach their final destination, based on the traffic conditions at that time.
What Are the Ways to Get from Dover Cruise Port to London?
There are a few ways to get on how to get from Dover Cruise Port to London. The right choice for you can be decided on factors such as the amount of luggage you have, the amount of money you want to spend, the time you have, etc.
- Private Taxi or Airport Transfer
In a private taxi or transfer, you directly travel from the cruise terminal to your chosen address in London. Your driver will meet you at the agreed pickup point. You can ask for luggage assistance, and after that you will get on the road.
The route may take the M20 towards London, followed by the M25 or other roads based on your destination. This option works well for families, couples, groups, and anyone travelling with several bags.
With a pre-booked car, you know your transport is arranged before you leave the ship. You don’t need to search for a taxi or change vehicles along the way.
- Private Booked Tour Car
Another great option for how to get from Dover Cruise Port to London is a private booked tour car. You have a chance to drive towards London with sightseeing stops along the way.
You can arrange the tour around places you would like to see before reaching your London destination. The route can include Dover, Kent and other places of interest before continuing towards London.
Therefore, an ideal pick for those who are fond of travelling and are always eager to see more of the area after leaving the cruise.
- Train from Dover to London
Trains provide a public transport option for passengers who prefer rail travel. Dover Priory is the main station that serves the town, with services running towards London.
Services can take you towards London St Pancras International and other London stations, based on the service you decide to take. Solo travellers, couples, and passengers who can manage their own luggage can go on booking train tickets.
This is also indeed a good Dover to London transport choice to have a scheduled service and to avoid driving through busy London roads. It can be a practical option for passengers comfortable with getting to and from stations.
- Bus or Coach Services
Bus and coach services run according to fixed schedules, so you need to check departure times before travelling. These can take you from Dover towards London and may stop at different locations along the way.
These are for travellers looking for a lower-cost way to reach London and those comfortable with scheduled transport. Also, you can book a seat on a scheduled service and travel without driving yourself. Check the luggage rules and timetable before your cruise arrives.
- Rental Car
You can drive from Dover to London yourself in a rental car. You can collect your vehicle after leaving the cruise port and continue towards your chosen London destination.
The M20 is a main road that goes to London and also interconnects with other roads. It is a good road for any extended tour.
If you want to take your own car for the tour and stop where you want, you have to think about the costs of parking in London, the constraints of London’s traffic, and the terms of the car rental company.
Book Your Dover Cruise Port to London Transfer
A head tour to London after a tiring Dover cruise calls for a comfortable start to your time in the city. With MyTailoredTours, you can arrange a private car and travel at a pace that suits your plans.
All you need to do is inform us about your travel plans, the places you would like to visit, and how you want your day to go. Accordingly, we will shape the experience around your interests, so you can settle into your London visit without the hassle of arranging every detail yourself.
Call MyTailoredTours to book your private tour from Dover Cruise Port to London and start your London experience with ease.
FAQs
Q1. What is the duration of the journey from Dover Cruise Port to London?
A: From Dover Cruise Port to London, it will take about 1 hour 45 minutes to about 2 hours 30 minutes. Of course, there are other variables that could affect the time, i.e. what part of London you are going to, how bad the traffic is, etc.
Q2. Is there public transport available from Dover Cruise Port to London?
A: Yes, public transport is available from the cruise port to London. The main railway station serving Dover is Dover Priory, and there are many trains to London St. Pancras International.
Q3. Is it possible to arrange for a private transport service from Dover Cruise Port to London?
A: Yes, it is possible to arrange transport from Dover Cruise Port to London. Your driver will bring you directly to your address in London.
Q4. Is it a problem if I have a lot of luggage?
A: Not at all. You can give us the luggage information when making a reservation. Having a lot of luggage is not a problem.
Q5. Can we stop over to visit other places in Kent?
A: Yes, your driver can take you wherever you want in Dover and Kent and then take you to London.
Oz Harris is a London-based professional tour guide with over a decade of experience leading tours across Europe. He holds a degree in Ancient and Medieval History from Royal Holloway, University of London. Oz began his career in tourism at the age of 19 and has since worked with several of the UK’s leading tour operators, delivering engaging day tours, long-distance itineraries, and in-depth city experiences. His passion for history and storytelling helps travellers experience destinations with deeper context and authenticity.