To the best of our knowledge, it is correct as of the last update.Visit Rome2rio travel advice for general help. I was really surprised by how gorgeous, blue and tropical the water looks when the sun is shining. During the spring and early summer, wildflowers litter the lush greenery in an array of colours. Fortunately, anyone with a European SIM card is unlikely to be charged any roaming fees. While when we went it was a warm, sunny day, there was still a breeze from the ocean that made it chilly at times. This guide contains everything you need to know to plan your perfect day trip from London to Dover. I would imagine that theres a possibility of there being ticks in the area as there is grassland and livestock, but I dont think its a problem in the area. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Whatever the weather, the experience of Dover is always something to enjoy. Far more than just a pretty destination, these British icons are a national symbol of freedom and hope. Experience one of Englands most spectacular natural features as you take an exhilarating coastal walk atop these iconic white giants. Id recommend the fish and chips because its not a proper trip to the seaside without it! This will allow you to start getting to grips with manual settings and decide whether photography is something you enjoy enough to invest in. Its a 15-minute drive or a 10-minute train journey from Dover to Shepherdswell. The White Cliffs of Dover are 350ft (110m) high. However, if you arrive by train or bus, you will need to either walk from the town centre or take a taxi to the information centre as there is no bus service. Rome2rio makes travelling from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover easy. The cliffs stretch along the coastline for eight miles (13 km), spreading east and west from the town of Dover in the county of Kent, an ancient and still important English port. It takes approximately 26 min to drive from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover. The England Coast Path covers 2795 miles around the English coast. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 1h 49m. Here are some of the best rated day tours to the White Cliffs of Dover from London: The White Cliffs of Dover really do make for the perfect day trip from London. crossing channel reelstreets dover cliffs strait grainy kent feature seen above opens Alternatively, pop into the tearooms, where much of their produce is grown organically in the gardens. Check the National Trust website for opening hours for the car park and visitor centre, as well as current parking prices. Remain hydrated without wasting single use plastic bottles! Save this link to stay updated on COVID-19 restrictions, Nationwide control measures in placeObserve COVID-19 safety rules, If you need help, visit the national COVID-19 website or call the COVID-19 Helpline 111. Rome2rio also offers online bookings for selected operators, making reservations easy and straightforward. They were formed from the shells and skeletons of tiny sea creatures that sank to the bottom of the sea when they died. While substantially shorter, the Saxon Shore Way is still impressive, covering 160 miles of Kents ancient coastline. asylum jools Dont worry, youll get back to scenic views of the White Cliffs of Dover soon enough! Others (that are all worth a visit too!) The routes are well marked, but realistically if you keep the ocean on your right and keep following the cliffs, you cant go too wrong! ', 'Do the trains and buses have Wifi?' Its not what you expect in Blighty! The unique selling point of this tour is that it is the only public tour from London operating regularly to pay a meaningful visit toDover. If travelling by car, you can park at the White Cliffs of Dover National Trust car park. As well as the Secret Wartime Tunnels, there is so much else to see at Dover Castle including the Great Tower, underground hospital and the Roman Lighthouse. Prices start at $100USD per night. cliffs tours guided stonehenge atrapalo sightseeing canterbury cathedral abbey augustine saint crypt britannica st students Two shipwrecks lie at the base of them, while a medieval castle towers majestically over the landscape. There are a number of scenic walks that will take you over the cliffs which weve covered in this guide. It looks like you had a fabulous time there too. Attached is the Bronze Age Boat Gallery, home to the worlds oldest known seagoing boat (thought to be around 3000 years old). For many the tunnels are the highlight of a visit. This tour ventures south-east of London, covering an area often called the Garden of England. Therefore, its worth bringing some cash with you. ', 'How much should I expect to pay? Constructed in 1940-41, Fan Bay Deep Shelter is a network of tunnels hidden beneath the White Cliffs of Dover. Rome2rio uses cookies to help personalize content and show you personalised ads. Feel the salty sea breeze caress your skin as the water laps at the beaches below. The best way to get from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover without a car is to line 12 bus and line 80 bus which takes 1h 49m and costs $7-$12. Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most famous places of worship in the world. Due to the remote location of some of the attractions, not all accept credit card. We will take a walk along the cliff-tops, or the beach, and look out to the busy English Channel. The cheapest way to get from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover is to drive which costs $6-$10 and takes 26 min. Find all the transport options for your trip from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover right here. If youre interested in discovering more about Dovers history or are visiting with kids, then it may be worth popping into the museum. I love myColumbia jacketas its three jackets in one and I can just wear the layer (or combination of layers) appropriate for the weather. Exmoor ponies can be seen grazing, as part of the ongoing conservation process. Visiting the White Cliffs of Dover from London will not disappoint. At South Foreland Lighthouse, you will also find Mrs Knotts Tearoom. Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed decision about which option will suit you best. From here you have the option of continuing on for a longer walk, returning back via the same route to Dover, or catching the bus back to Dover. When it is sunny, on a clear day youll be able to spot the coast of France. Dover Castle sits strategically upon the famous White Cliffs of Dover, overlooking the port and town far below and normally is the first attraction to be visited. About White Cliffs The White Cliffs of Dover are cliffs that form part of the English coastline facing the Strait of Dover and France. You could definitely do the castle first if it would suit your itinerary better, then youre also not rushing back to get to the castle before it closes. If youre just looking for quick answers to some more frequently asked questions, use the Table of Contents to skip straight to the FAQs! There are also a number of other longer walks you can take that include the White Cliffs of Dover if you have more than a day to visit Dover from London. On the tour detail page from the link below, there is a calendar control at the top right of the page, which depicts which dates still have availability. However, as I visited in May 2020, the trail had only recently opened following lockdown and other attractions remained closed. The cliffs are part of the North Downs formation. It takes approximately 1h 49m to get from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover, including transfers. As well as offering one of Britains best coastal walks, the White Cliffs of Dover and its surroundings are home to a wealth of history. There is a pub, the Coastguard, with a typically British menu. Rome2rio's Travel Guide series provide vital information for the global traveller. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Canterbury City, with time to visit Canterbury cathedral if you wish! The views are captivating from the very beginning, so you dont have to go far to experience the beauty of the White Cliffs. Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover bus services, operated by Stagecoach South, depart from Canterbury, Bus Station. Consider a visit to Dover Castle, or an extended visit to walk the paths high above the Cliffs of Dover! Dover Castle is one of the best castles near London to visit on a day trip. An official Icon of Britain, the White Cliffs have been a sign of hope and freedom, a reminder of war time defence, for centuries. It offers sweeping views of the cliffs, the English Channel, Dover Port and even out to France on a clear day! If you dont fancy having to figure out all the details yourself, then a day tour from London to the White Cliffs of Dover is a great option. If you drove to the White Cliffs of Dover from London, then you will begin your visit at the Tourist Information centre where the carpark for the cliffs is located. It is possible to take a guided tour of the lighthouse and discover more of its history, as well as take in uninterrupted views from the balcony. If youre lucky, you may also encounter Exmoor ponies grazing on the rolling grasslands or spot one of many species of butterflies flitting around. The White Cliffs of Dover are white because they are chalk cliffs, with natural erosion constantly maintaining their fresh white appearance. Other longer walks include Via Francigena, Miners Way Trail, Stour Valley Way and the North Downs Way. There are a few different ways you can get to the White Cliffs of Dover from London. Make yourself known to an official member of staff and/or call the national coronavirus helpline number on 111. This imposing building takes pride of place in the heart of medieval Canterbury. The national COVID-19 helpline number in White Cliffs of Dover is 111. We Dream of Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Alternatively, book your ticket for Dover Castle online from 10.65. ? However, for beginners you may wish to consider anentry-level DSLR. However, one of the most scenic and popular routes is the South Foreland Walk from the visitor centre to St. Margarets Bay. From here the path opens back up to coastal views where youre able to catch glimpses of St Margarets Bay nestled between the sheer cliffs. USE CODE TOUR2020 on checkout for 10% all bookings made this week for travel any time! You may also enjoy some of our London guides for your time in the capital city, as well as our other England guides if you fancy exploring this beautiful country further: If youre continuing your travels around other parts of the UK, check out our guides for Wales and Scotland too . An essential day trip from London! I will certainly be back to visit this impressive castle when it is open again. Parking at the car park costs 5 per car. I LOVE this area. Yes, its absolutely possible to see France from Dover (and vice versa) on a clear day. Your photos are stunning! The drive from London to the visitor centre at the White Cliffs of Dover is approximately a 78-mile drive requiring just under 2 hours. Continue to wind your way towards South Foreland Lighthouse. On a cold winter's day, the fresh air is invigorating, even in the rain, watching the waves crashing over the sea wall is a heartening experience. Along the way, you will pass by Pines Gardens and Tearooms. There Will Be Bluebirds Over The White Cliffs Of Dover! We can not promise the bluebirds or weather but we can assure you an amazing time! leisure centre inflatables seaside beside things dover fun As you meander across the cliffs, look out over the aqua water to the horizon. If youre looking for some quick answers to frequently asked questions about visiting the White Cliffs of Dover from London, then this section is for you! We dont travel anywhere without areusable water bottle. The ground on which Dover Castle stands site was originally an Iron Age hill fort. For further information on all the other trails available, click here. By proceeding, you accept the use of cookies in accordance with our, Take the line 12 bus from Canterbury, Bus Station to Guston, The Swingate Inn, Take the line 80 bus from Guston, The Swingate Inn to St Margaret's at Cliffe, Bay Hill, Take the line 15 bus from Canterbury, Bus Station to Dover, Pencester Road, Take the line 80 bus from Dover, Pencester Road to St Margaret's at Cliffe, Bay Hill, Take the train from Canterbury West to Ramsgate, Take the line 80 bus from Walmer, Station Road to St Margaret's at Cliffe, Bay Hill, Take a taxi from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover, Drive from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover. If you dont have your own vehicle, Dover makes for a great day trip from London by train. Upon arriving at the White Cliffs of Dover, I received a text message from my mobile provider saying Welcome to France. You can take a bus from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover via Guston, The Swingate Inn and St Margaret's at Cliffe, Bay Hill in around 1h 49m. Getting to the White Cliffs of Dover from London, The Perfect Day Trip to the White Cliffs of Dover from London, White Cliffs of Dover Scenic Coastal Walk, Top Tips for Visiting the White Cliffs of Dover from London, Be careful with French mobile phone service, Final thoughts on visiting the White Cliffs of Dover from London, The Best Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Wanderlust, White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip from London, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover, and Greenwich Day Tour from London, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs of Dover from London, 101+ Dream Destinations for your Travel Bucket List, Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters White Cliffs, Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters in East Sussex, Queenstown to Milford Sound: Travel Options & Must-See Stops, 10 Best Places for Sunset in Kauai + Photography Tips (2022). They are positively steeped in history and lore. The ancient city of Canterbury has been the centre of Christian worship for almost 1,700 years. This six-acre garden has many different features, including a lake, grass labyrinth, flowering shrubs and kitchen garden. It is exceptionally well preserved, with walls in four rooms surviving at 4-6 feet in height. We use theSony a7riiiand have been in love with it ever since the first photo we took with it. Dover Museum houses a variety of real artefacts, models and original pictures showcasing the history and archaeology of Dover. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner. YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters White Cliffs. The White Cliffs of Dover date back over 136 million years. We're working around the clock to bring you the latest COVID-19 travel updates.This information is compiled from official sources. The cliffs with their valuable chalk grassland, are home to many species of birds and butterfly, attracted by the wild-flowers that grow there. The quickest way to get from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover is to taxi which costs $50-$65 and takes 26 min. It is a former fishing, mining and garrison town. I spent the day in Dover for my birthday with my dad and it was perfect! Whether youre looking to visit one of Britains most picturesque landscapes and absorb the tranquillity of the countryside and coast, or want to discover more about the culture and history, the White Cliffs of Dover are the perfect day trip from London. Additionally, the longer daylight hours during the summer allow you to fit in more on a day trip from London. I have still provided information on these, with links for further details as necessary, to give you a comprehensive guide to the region. This charming tearoom provides the perfect pitstop for a cup of tea or a bite to eat before making your way to St Margarets Beach. They are one of several sets of white cliffs in England. These incredible iconic cliffs are worth the visit alone. Ive tried to include all the most pertinent information in as concise a manner as possible for easy reference. 
Other tours visiting Dover have nothing more than a photo stop or lunch stop between visiting Leeds Castle andCanterbury. A huge bonus to travelling by car is that youre spared the steep uphill climb from Dover town centre to the top of the cliffs! On your way, youll pass by St Margarets Bay Windmill. Buses run from Victoria Coach Station, approximately 600 yards from London Victoria train and underground stations. If arriving in Dover by public transport, you will need to either walk or take a taxi from the station or town centre to the cliffs. No visit to the White Cliffs of Dover from London would be complete without taking a scenic walk over the cliffs. It is possible to reach Dover by train from London via three different lines: Train tickets start at around 25-35 off-peak each way. Rome2rio also offers online bookings for selected operators, making reservations easy and straightforward. The White Cliffs are definitely the biggest attraction in Dover. Check the Dover Museum website for opening times and current exhibitions. Consider visiting Flamborough Head in Yorkshire and Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters in East Sussex for even more beautiful white chalk cliffs. However, its presence can be seen and felt from all over Dover. This includes unlimited access over 9 (38) or 16 days (45) to hundreds of English Heritage attractions including Dover Castle. Find more information on their website. Relax on the pebbled beach as the waves gently lap the shore, with the imposing backdrop of Dover Cliffs on either side. A professional tour manager is aboard the bus the entire day and will provide commentary and guiding throughout as well as looking after entrance into the various attractions. Yes, I was able to pick up cell service from France! DISCOVER MORE INSPIRATION: 101+ Dream Destinations for your Travel Bucket List. 
We hadnt realised this until we got back to the car park, having rushed back thinking it was later than it was! Wearing a face mask on public transport in White Cliffs of Dover is subject to regional advice. During these summer months, the weather tends to be warmer and drier with temperatures between 20-25C (68-77F), making a walk over the cliffs much more enjoyable. is Fan Bay Deep Shelter. Beckett's martyrdom lead to Canterbury Cathedral becoming the centre of one of the most important medieval pilgrimages in Europe, and inspiration for Geoffrey Chaucer's famous work,The Canterbury Tales. YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Prettiest English Villages. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Tickets cost only 4 and more information can be found on their website. Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover bus services, operated by Stagecoach South, arrive at St Margaret's at Cliffe, Bay Hill station. It is 16 miles from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover. As youll be hiking, youll want to ensure you have plenty of water with you. The White Cliffs of Dover from London are a 78 mile drive or just under 2 hours drive time. At the very least, you will want to take some layers as it is often cooler at the coast. Dover Castle is a medieval castle in Dover, Kent. 3) Are there ticks? However, youll be rewarded with breathtaking views no matter which path you choose over the Langdon Cliffs! From navigating the Tube to exploring by ferry, Rome2rios UK travel guides give you the lowdown on this tourist hotspot. This will allow you a more relaxed pace. 
The tour ends at London Bridge, a major public transport hub where the Underground will quickly get you anywhere in central London. May or September are the best months to visit the White Cliffs of Dover, providing the best balance between good weather and less visitors. For perhaps the majority of first time visitors to Canterbury, the big draw is to visit Canterbury Cathedral. The South Foreland Walk comprises part of two greater walks; the England Coast Path and the Saxon Shore Way. But dont forget to look back! However, July and August are also peak months for tourism, so expect it to be busier during these months. It was founded in the 11th century and has been described as the "Key to England" due to its defensive significance throughout history. Tour highlights, days + times Deal is a town in Kent, England which lies on the English Channel, eight miles north-east of Dover and eight miles south of Ramsgate. As for the walk time, itd probably be about an hour each way if you walked at a reasonable pace and didnt stop. We did the walk along the North Downs way (from South London to Dover) and I have to say, the last section from Folkstone to Dover was the most beautiful of the entire hike. As it is pretty much on the way back to London, it could be worth a stop for anyone interested in trains or for families. WRITTEN BY: Sophie Clapton, Born and bred Londoner.Facebook | Instagram. However, there are services departing from Canterbury, Bus Station and arriving at St Margaret's at Cliffe, Bay Hill via Guston, The Swingate Inn. Am I allowed to travel from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover? For more information on tickets and opening times, visit the National Trust website. The views truly are magnificent, so dont forget to bring your camera to capture these awe-inspiring scenes. As you make your way down from the Dover Cliffs, you will meander along quiet roads to reach St Margarets Bay. It is the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, leader of the Church of England and symbolic leader of the world-wide Anglican Communion. Of course, youll be stopping to photograph the astounding scenery along the way, so realistically it will take a bit longer! Plus, admission is free! We admired the gardens as we passed, preferring to save time for the beach. Join us on this great tour, to visit the White Cliffs of Dover and historic city of Canterbury in one great day . The walk from the town centre takes approximately 40 minutes but has about a 285ft elevation gain. >o<, Thank you Polly. I agree, I didnt expect it to be as beautiful as it was either! For centuries, they have served as the gateway to Britain for those crossing the English channel. Standing at the top of the cliffs looking down to the crashing waves below, you can appreciate the scale and enormity of these impressive features. If youre brave enough, its a great place for a swim! 
It looks like such a peaceful and relaxing place for a walk. Revel in their dramatic beauty and take in the breathtaking views across the azure water of the English Channel to the French coast. Enjoy panoramic views of the Kent countryside, and get ready for a great day! If they are there I didnt encounter any and I dont think theyre rampant or likely to cause an issue for you . You can reach the White Cliffs of Dover from London by car, public transport or tour. The cliff face, which reaches up to 350ft, owes its striking appearance to its composition of chalk accented by streaks of black flint. Taking a bus from London to Dover is not ideal for a day trip as the bus typically doesnt arrive in Dover until 14:30 and leaves Dover again at 15:15! The English Heritage manages Dover Castle, as well as many other castles and attractions. Can I just ask a couple more things though: There is also an accessible, shorter walk to a viewpoint for wheelchair users or those with more limited ability. These natural chalk-cliffs were made famous by a beautiful song your guide will tell you about! At the western end of the bay youll also find some cute, multicoloured beach huts! Built in 1929, this Grade II listed building served to provide electricity to the attached house for 10 years. A far cheaper way to get to Dover from London is by bus, with tickets starting from 5 each way. But most importantly, have the most amazing time at the White Cliffs of Dover! A walk along these iconic chalk cliffs provide spectacular coastal views through pristine British countryside teeming with wildlife and flowers. Whether youre looking for a wonderful adults day out to escape the kids or looking for something to do with them, or just a little alone time, theres nothing quite like a hike over the Dover Cliffs! , Oh wow that sounds amazing. There are many fascinating elements to the castle and its grounds, including a Roman Lighthouse, secret wartime tunnels, an underground hospital and the Great Tower. Domestic travel is not restricted, but some conditions may apply. If you are a keen history buff then you may enjoy this unique attraction. Great tips on visiting these beauties. The breathtaking coastal path will take you around Langdon Hole overlooking Langdon Bay to reach Fan Bay Point. Therefore, if youre planning on taking a day trip to Dover from London with friends then it may be worth looking into car rental as the cost of several train tickets soon adds up to be more expensive. To this day, miles of hidden wartime tunnels remain concealed within the cliffs. As you get closer, the lighthouse can be seen in the distance behind the patchwork quilt of these colourful wildflowers. 2) How much time does it take the trail you have done? Unfortunately, the castle was closed when I visited. Originally built by the Romans, you can feel the history of the city as you walk among the unique buildings. What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms when I arrive in White Cliffs of Dover? Joining the tour A light has been visible at this spot on South Foreland since the 1300s to safely guard the passage of ships to shore. Canterbury to Lancaster Lancashire England, Canterbury to Greenford Underground Station, Canterbury to The Elvetham Hotel Hartley Wintney, Canterbury to Nederlands Architectuur Instituut, Canterbury to Nausica Centre National de la Mer, Calais Ferry Port to White Cliffs of Dover, Newcastle upon Tyne to White Cliffs of Dover, Chafford Hundred to White Cliffs of Dover, Kingston near Lewes to White Cliffs of Dover, Arsenal FC Training Ground to White Cliffs of Dover, King s Cross St Pancras Underground Station to White Cliffs of Dover, Dalston Kingsland to White Cliffs of Dover. If youre looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, visiting the White Cliffs of Dover from London is the perfect day trip. Yes, dogs are allowed on the scenic walks along the White Cliffs of Dover. However, if youve got a SIM card that doesnt cover France you may wish to switch off roaming. ', 'Should I book online before I travel? South Foreland Lighthouse is a Victorian lighthouse on the South Foreland in St. Margaret's Bay, Dover, Kent, England, used to warn ships approaching the nearby Goodwin Sands. We also discover the beauty of the Kent Coast, as we drive through the lush countryside. Check the details of each tour as activities and inclusions differ. If you got an early start to your day it would absolutely be possible to include Dover Castle on your day trip to Dover from London. All purchases or bookings made through We Dream of Travel come at no extra cost to the reader. Your guide will tell you some of the history as you go along. ), The Needle in the Isle of Wight and the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. Yes, travel within United Kingdom is currently allowed. And honestly, the only other thing Id really recommend you seeing in Dover is the castle. Its greatest treasure is the cathedral, infamous as the setting for the brutal murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170. Unlike most day tours from London you have a choice of pick-up points from Kensington in the west of London to London Bridge in the east (see website for more details). It truly is a spectacular part of the country , Oh how beautiful! The closest train station to the White Cliffs is Dover Priory. Here, youll find a miniature railway, model railway and a small museum. This departure point near Victoria Station is easily accessible by London Underground from all parts of London. Located 1.2 miles from the car park, you can reach it within half an hour walking directly.
Other tours visiting Dover have nothing more than a photo stop or lunch stop between visiting Leeds Castle andCanterbury. A huge bonus to travelling by car is that youre spared the steep uphill climb from Dover town centre to the top of the cliffs! On your way, youll pass by St Margarets Bay Windmill. Buses run from Victoria Coach Station, approximately 600 yards from London Victoria train and underground stations. If arriving in Dover by public transport, you will need to either walk or take a taxi from the station or town centre to the cliffs. No visit to the White Cliffs of Dover from London would be complete without taking a scenic walk over the cliffs. It is possible to reach Dover by train from London via three different lines: Train tickets start at around 25-35 off-peak each way. Rome2rio also offers online bookings for selected operators, making reservations easy and straightforward. The White Cliffs are definitely the biggest attraction in Dover. Check the Dover Museum website for opening times and current exhibitions. Consider visiting Flamborough Head in Yorkshire and Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters in East Sussex for even more beautiful white chalk cliffs. However, its presence can be seen and felt from all over Dover. This includes unlimited access over 9 (38) or 16 days (45) to hundreds of English Heritage attractions including Dover Castle. Find more information on their website. Relax on the pebbled beach as the waves gently lap the shore, with the imposing backdrop of Dover Cliffs on either side. A professional tour manager is aboard the bus the entire day and will provide commentary and guiding throughout as well as looking after entrance into the various attractions. Yes, I was able to pick up cell service from France! DISCOVER MORE INSPIRATION: 101+ Dream Destinations for your Travel Bucket List. We hadnt realised this until we got back to the car park, having rushed back thinking it was later than it was! Wearing a face mask on public transport in White Cliffs of Dover is subject to regional advice. During these summer months, the weather tends to be warmer and drier with temperatures between 20-25C (68-77F), making a walk over the cliffs much more enjoyable. is Fan Bay Deep Shelter. Beckett's martyrdom lead to Canterbury Cathedral becoming the centre of one of the most important medieval pilgrimages in Europe, and inspiration for Geoffrey Chaucer's famous work,The Canterbury Tales. YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Prettiest English Villages. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Tickets cost only 4 and more information can be found on their website. Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover bus services, operated by Stagecoach South, arrive at St Margaret's at Cliffe, Bay Hill station. It is 16 miles from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover. As youll be hiking, youll want to ensure you have plenty of water with you. The White Cliffs of Dover from London are a 78 mile drive or just under 2 hours drive time. At the very least, you will want to take some layers as it is often cooler at the coast. Dover Castle is a medieval castle in Dover, Kent. 3) Are there ticks? However, youll be rewarded with breathtaking views no matter which path you choose over the Langdon Cliffs! From navigating the Tube to exploring by ferry, Rome2rios UK travel guides give you the lowdown on this tourist hotspot. This will allow you a more relaxed pace. The tour ends at London Bridge, a major public transport hub where the Underground will quickly get you anywhere in central London. May or September are the best months to visit the White Cliffs of Dover, providing the best balance between good weather and less visitors. For perhaps the majority of first time visitors to Canterbury, the big draw is to visit Canterbury Cathedral. The South Foreland Walk comprises part of two greater walks; the England Coast Path and the Saxon Shore Way. But dont forget to look back! However, July and August are also peak months for tourism, so expect it to be busier during these months. It was founded in the 11th century and has been described as the "Key to England" due to its defensive significance throughout history. Tour highlights, days + times Deal is a town in Kent, England which lies on the English Channel, eight miles north-east of Dover and eight miles south of Ramsgate. As for the walk time, itd probably be about an hour each way if you walked at a reasonable pace and didnt stop. We did the walk along the North Downs way (from South London to Dover) and I have to say, the last section from Folkstone to Dover was the most beautiful of the entire hike. As it is pretty much on the way back to London, it could be worth a stop for anyone interested in trains or for families. WRITTEN BY: Sophie Clapton, Born and bred Londoner.Facebook | Instagram. However, there are services departing from Canterbury, Bus Station and arriving at St Margaret's at Cliffe, Bay Hill via Guston, The Swingate Inn. Am I allowed to travel from Canterbury to White Cliffs of Dover? For more information on tickets and opening times, visit the National Trust website. The views truly are magnificent, so dont forget to bring your camera to capture these awe-inspiring scenes. As you make your way down from the Dover Cliffs, you will meander along quiet roads to reach St Margarets Bay. It is the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, leader of the Church of England and symbolic leader of the world-wide Anglican Communion. Of course, youll be stopping to photograph the astounding scenery along the way, so realistically it will take a bit longer! Plus, admission is free! We admired the gardens as we passed, preferring to save time for the beach. Join us on this great tour, to visit the White Cliffs of Dover and historic city of Canterbury in one great day . The walk from the town centre takes approximately 40 minutes but has about a 285ft elevation gain. >o<, Thank you Polly. I agree, I didnt expect it to be as beautiful as it was either! For centuries, they have served as the gateway to Britain for those crossing the English channel. Standing at the top of the cliffs looking down to the crashing waves below, you can appreciate the scale and enormity of these impressive features. If youre brave enough, its a great place for a swim! It looks like such a peaceful and relaxing place for a walk. Revel in their dramatic beauty and take in the breathtaking views across the azure water of the English Channel to the French coast. Enjoy panoramic views of the Kent countryside, and get ready for a great day! If they are there I didnt encounter any and I dont think theyre rampant or likely to cause an issue for you . You can reach the White Cliffs of Dover from London by car, public transport or tour. The cliff face, which reaches up to 350ft, owes its striking appearance to its composition of chalk accented by streaks of black flint. Taking a bus from London to Dover is not ideal for a day trip as the bus typically doesnt arrive in Dover until 14:30 and leaves Dover again at 15:15! The English Heritage manages Dover Castle, as well as many other castles and attractions. Can I just ask a couple more things though: There is also an accessible, shorter walk to a viewpoint for wheelchair users or those with more limited ability. These natural chalk-cliffs were made famous by a beautiful song your guide will tell you about! At the western end of the bay youll also find some cute, multicoloured beach huts! Built in 1929, this Grade II listed building served to provide electricity to the attached house for 10 years. A far cheaper way to get to Dover from London is by bus, with tickets starting from 5 each way. But most importantly, have the most amazing time at the White Cliffs of Dover! A walk along these iconic chalk cliffs provide spectacular coastal views through pristine British countryside teeming with wildlife and flowers. Whether youre looking for a wonderful adults day out to escape the kids or looking for something to do with them, or just a little alone time, theres nothing quite like a hike over the Dover Cliffs! , Oh wow that sounds amazing. There are many fascinating elements to the castle and its grounds, including a Roman Lighthouse, secret wartime tunnels, an underground hospital and the Great Tower. Domestic travel is not restricted, but some conditions may apply. If you are a keen history buff then you may enjoy this unique attraction. Great tips on visiting these beauties. The breathtaking coastal path will take you around Langdon Hole overlooking Langdon Bay to reach Fan Bay Point. Therefore, if youre planning on taking a day trip to Dover from London with friends then it may be worth looking into car rental as the cost of several train tickets soon adds up to be more expensive. To this day, miles of hidden wartime tunnels remain concealed within the cliffs. As you get closer, the lighthouse can be seen in the distance behind the patchwork quilt of these colourful wildflowers. 2) How much time does it take the trail you have done? Unfortunately, the castle was closed when I visited. Originally built by the Romans, you can feel the history of the city as you walk among the unique buildings. What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms when I arrive in White Cliffs of Dover? Joining the tour A light has been visible at this spot on South Foreland since the 1300s to safely guard the passage of ships to shore. Canterbury to Lancaster Lancashire England, Canterbury to Greenford Underground Station, Canterbury to The Elvetham Hotel Hartley Wintney, Canterbury to Nederlands Architectuur Instituut, Canterbury to Nausica Centre National de la Mer, Calais Ferry Port to White Cliffs of Dover, Newcastle upon Tyne to White Cliffs of Dover, Chafford Hundred to White Cliffs of Dover, Kingston near Lewes to White Cliffs of Dover, Arsenal FC Training Ground to White Cliffs of Dover, King s Cross St Pancras Underground Station to White Cliffs of Dover, Dalston Kingsland to White Cliffs of Dover. If youre looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, visiting the White Cliffs of Dover from London is the perfect day trip. Yes, dogs are allowed on the scenic walks along the White Cliffs of Dover. However, if youve got a SIM card that doesnt cover France you may wish to switch off roaming. ', 'Should I book online before I travel? South Foreland Lighthouse is a Victorian lighthouse on the South Foreland in St. Margaret's Bay, Dover, Kent, England, used to warn ships approaching the nearby Goodwin Sands. We also discover the beauty of the Kent Coast, as we drive through the lush countryside. Check the details of each tour as activities and inclusions differ. If you got an early start to your day it would absolutely be possible to include Dover Castle on your day trip to Dover from London. All purchases or bookings made through We Dream of Travel come at no extra cost to the reader. Your guide will tell you some of the history as you go along. ), The Needle in the Isle of Wight and the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. Yes, travel within United Kingdom is currently allowed. And honestly, the only other thing Id really recommend you seeing in Dover is the castle. Its greatest treasure is the cathedral, infamous as the setting for the brutal murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170. Unlike most day tours from London you have a choice of pick-up points from Kensington in the west of London to London Bridge in the east (see website for more details). It truly is a spectacular part of the country , Oh how beautiful! The closest train station to the White Cliffs is Dover Priory. Here, youll find a miniature railway, model railway and a small museum. This departure point near Victoria Station is easily accessible by London Underground from all parts of London. Located 1.2 miles from the car park, you can reach it within half an hour walking directly.