The White Cliffs of Dover
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Published October 3rd 2012
Visit one of Britain’s most magnificent sights
Explore Britain's iconic coastline along the visually striking White Cliffs of Dover. The stunning White Cliffs of Dover look over the English Channel where the French coast can also be seen on a clear day. The national trust offer many cliff top walks along the white cliffs. There is even a chance to walk down onto the beach below the soaring cliffs to view an historic shipwreck.
Arriving at the top of the cliffs, there is a remarkable view of the coastline and the busiest ferry port in Europe. This is the perfect place to stop and watch the boats go by and enjoy the peace and quiet. The main walk, however, starts from Langdon Cliffs and ends at South Foreland Lighthouse.
Inside the lighthouse at the end of the walk there is an incredibly pretty tea house, which offers afternoon tea and cakes. It is £4.50 for a pot of tea and two fresh scones with cream and jam. This is perfect after a long walk. You can also book a tour around the lighthouse to immerse yourself in history and learn more about how the lighthouse works. At the beginning of the walk there is also a shop and a cafe selling food, drink and souvenirs. It is advisable to stock up on bottled drinks before you leave for your walk, especially on a hot summer's day.
The best way to explore the whole area within 2-3 hours is to walk along the cliff tops towards the lighthouse; stop for some tea and cake and then make your way back. If you're a strong walker you can then make your way down to the beach and view the shipwreck on the way back. This is a must see as it is extremely tranquil listening to the sound of the waves crashing underneath the tall and beautiful white cliffs.
There is also a cave structure built into the cliffs which you can explore. The walkway to the beach is very steep and there are also steep ladders leading to the beach. Therefore it may be quite challenging to make your way down if you are not a strong walker. There are also no fences along the edge of the cliffs so dogs must be kept under close control at all times, and young children should never be let out of sight.
If you are lucky enough, you may come across a herd of semi-wild Exmoor ponies on your walk. In the summer you will also see many butterflies and wild flowers surrounding the greenery on the cliffs. There is a nature board at the beginning of the walk which shows you what animals to look out for on your walk. You can also discover some hidden wartime history and visit the remains of a former military prison.
Before you start your walk ensure that you pick up a free map and walking guide of the area when you arrive so you know exactly where to go. Entry is free, however, it will cost you £3 to park for the day.
If you have time then you can also visit Dover Harbour which is around ten minutes drive away. You can take a walk along one of the piers to get closer to some of the boats. From here you can also see the picture perfect white cliffs from a distance. Dover castle is also a five minute drive away which is an amazing and educational day out. No matter what you decide to do in the White Cliffs Country, you will most certainly be immersed in history, beauty and adventure.
Arriving at the top of the cliffs, there is a remarkable view of the coastline and the busiest ferry port in Europe. This is the perfect place to stop and watch the boats go by and enjoy the peace and quiet. The main walk, however, starts from Langdon Cliffs and ends at South Foreland Lighthouse.
Inside the lighthouse at the end of the walk there is an incredibly pretty tea house, which offers afternoon tea and cakes. It is £4.50 for a pot of tea and two fresh scones with cream and jam. This is perfect after a long walk. You can also book a tour around the lighthouse to immerse yourself in history and learn more about how the lighthouse works. At the beginning of the walk there is also a shop and a cafe selling food, drink and souvenirs. It is advisable to stock up on bottled drinks before you leave for your walk, especially on a hot summer's day.
There is also a cave structure built into the cliffs which you can explore. The walkway to the beach is very steep and there are also steep ladders leading to the beach. Therefore it may be quite challenging to make your way down if you are not a strong walker. There are also no fences along the edge of the cliffs so dogs must be kept under close control at all times, and young children should never be let out of sight.
If you are lucky enough, you may come across a herd of semi-wild Exmoor ponies on your walk. In the summer you will also see many butterflies and wild flowers surrounding the greenery on the cliffs. There is a nature board at the beginning of the walk which shows you what animals to look out for on your walk. You can also discover some hidden wartime history and visit the remains of a former military prison.
Before you start your walk ensure that you pick up a free map and walking guide of the area when you arrive so you know exactly where to go. Entry is free, however, it will cost you £3 to park for the day.
If you have time then you can also visit Dover Harbour which is around ten minutes drive away. You can take a walk along one of the piers to get closer to some of the boats. From here you can also see the picture perfect white cliffs from a distance. Dover castle is also a five minute drive away which is an amazing and educational day out. No matter what you decide to do in the White Cliffs Country, you will most certainly be immersed in history, beauty and adventure.
Why? Because it is an area of outstanding beauty.
When: 8am til 7pm.
Where: Langdon Cliffs, Upper Road, Dover, CT16 1HJ
Cost: £3 Parking.
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