Coast and Clifftop Tour of the Kent Downs
Stride out east on the world famous White Cliffs of Dover to discover the heritage that awaits at South Foreland Lighthouse. This was the first lighthouse to display an electric light anywhere in the world! Accessed only by foot your walk to this landmark provides you will panoramic views across the Straits of Dover. Venture west to explore the wild and secluded Samphire Hoe Nature Reserve. It is easy to see why this green haven has received 15 Green Flag Awards for well managed green spaces. This thriving nature reserve was created by Eurotunnel more than 25 years ago.
- 1 day
- Dover
Itinerary details
Here's a taste of your next experience.
Coast and Clifftop Tour of the Kent Downs
Stride out east on the world famous White Cliffs of Dover to discover the heritage that awaits at South Foreland Lighthouse. This was the first lighthouse to display an electric light anywhere in the world! Accessed only by foot your walk to this landmark provides you will panoramic views across the Straits of Dover. Venture west to explore the wild and secluded Samphire Hoe Nature Reserve. It is easy to see why this green haven has received 15 Green Flag Awards for well managed green spaces. This thriving nature reserve was created by Eurotunnel more than 25 years ago.
White Cliffs of Dover
The Kent Downs chalk ridge comes to a grand finale with the White Cliffs of Dover. Walk on top of this iconic landmark gazing out to sea and beyond to France. Your walk leads to South Foreland Lighthouse where you can learn more about its history on a fascinating guided tour.
Walking route
Mrs Knott’s Tea Room / Pine Garden Tea Room
Whilst visiting the lighthouse why not stop for a spot of lunch and a cup of tea at the 1950’s quirky Mrs Knott’s Tearoom. The cafe is situated in a converted lighthouse keepers cottage and offers lunch and cake with tea served in china cups and teapots.
Alternatively continue onto St.Margaret’s Bay to discover the stunning Bay Trust Permaculture Garden. This educational and inspiring place is also home to Pines Garden Tea Room where you will be treated to a delicious lunch followed by their famously large cakes and scones!
Mrs Knott’s TearoomBay Trust
Samphire Hoe
Stroll through Samphire Hoe, a coastal nature reserve between Dover and Folkestone. This 2 mile circular walk involves a stretch along the sea wall before walking through the centre of the Hoe passing a sea of wildflowers if you are walking in Spring.
https://explorekent.org/activities/samphire-hoe-walk/
Go behind the scenes at Samphire Hoe and choose the ‘Be a Ranger Experience’. This gives an interesting insight into the work that is carried out on this thriving nature reserve. Provided with binoculars you will complete checks of different sites, feed the livestock and also go into areas the general public can not access.
Samphire Hoe
The White Horse Pub – Dover
Awarded a Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Award The White Horse pub in Dover sits in the shadows of Dover Castle. Enjoy local fresh food with vegan and vegetarian options.
The White Horse
Mountain Biking
Join a Mountain Bike Group to explore Dover and the surrounding areas with White Cliffs MTB
White Cliffs MTB
Alkham Court Farmhouse
Relax and recharge at Alkham Court Farmhouse in the Kent Downs AONB. This B&B has won numerous awards including the prestigious Visit England Bed Breakfast of the year. Choose from luxury bedrooms or stay at their nearby glamping site.
Alkham Court Farmhouse