White cliffs country - visitor guide 2018 - Dover Deal Sandwich
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What’s on offer DAYS OUT handbook Useful information 4-35 36-45 46-52 Welcome to White Cliffs Country, Now you have read about some By this point in this guide you are a unique place where coast meets of what is on offer, where do you now packing your bags ready to begin? visit. So you’re going to need to country, beauty meets history and know how to get here and some England meets the Continent. advice on finding your way around. In this section you’ll find information The iconic White Cliffs and our about our towns and villages which In this section you’ll find information are overflowing with character on how to get to White Cliffs beautiful coast and countryside offer Country whatever mode of transport spectacular walking, sailing, cycling containing unique shops, theatres, you choose plus handy maps of and sightseeing as well as white special days out and things to do. Dover, Deal and Sandwich and the knuckle RIB rides, seal spotting and surrounding villages. even the opportunity to feed a tiger. With an abundance of history We couldn’t possibly mention and heritage plus stunning and everything that is on offer in White The rich heritage of the area is unforgettable landscape, there is Cliffs Country in this one publication awe-inspiring with an amazing something for everyone in one of the so please don’t forget to visit our selection of diverse museums and most beautiful parts of England. website for more details. castles including a busy season of Come for a day or stay for a Visit our website for accommodation re-enactments bringing history alive listings and information on booking a as you have never seen it before. week and have an experience to place to stay. remember. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 3
White Cliffs Country has 26 miles of coast beckoning to be discovered in all different ways from the thrill of a RIB ride beneath the cliffs, a trip up the Stour to see a colony of seals or join in with water sports in Dover harbour. DOVER SEA SAFARI FISHING Take advantage of our wonderful coastline If you fancy trying a spot of sea fishing, on an exhilarating tour on a RIB speed step aboard a large charter fishing vessel boat with Dover Sea Safari. Choose from operating from Dover Marina. a variety of trips including their popular 2 hour Secret Seal Safari! SANDWICH RIVER BUS AND SEAL SPOTTING TRIPS DOVER SEA SPORTS CENTRE See seals and wildlife in the estuary There’s an exciting range of activities and aboard the 70 seater Southern Queen courses available at Dover Sea Sports on a two hour cruise with Sandwich River Centre. Learn to windsurf, try a dinghy Bus. sailing or paddleboard course - from beginner to advanced there’s an activity for you. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 5
You don’t have to have sea legs to enjoy a thrill or two in White Cliffs Country. At our newest Country Park you can take on the challenge of the obstacle course or try your hand with a bow and arrow. If that sounds a bit tame why not feed a tiger or go on a track day at Lydden Hill? WINGHAM WILDLIFE PARK LYDDEN HILL RACE CIRCUIT Get up close and personal with a loveable Bring your car or bike along to Lydden Meerkat, Racoon or Penguin on an Hill Race Circuit on one of the track days Experience Day at Wingham Wildlife Park. held throughout the year. Designed to Shadow a Reptile Keeper or become be fun, track days are ideal to learn more a Keeper for the Day where you’ll meet about your vehicle in a safe environment. some of the animals and help with their Regular motorsport events throughout the feeding all the while learning about the year. animals. BETTESHANGER PARK Come along to Betteshanger Park and go on a geocaching treasure hunt or try one of the four orienteering courses. Let the kids run off a bit of steam in the play area equipped with rope walks, cradle swings, slides, see-saws and more! whitecliffscountry.org.uk 7
White Cliffs Country is a great place to eat out with a wide variety of places to choose, from restaurants and gastro pubs to bistros and cafes, many offering locally sourced produce. But how about getting involved in some foraging, cookery classes or sampling local wines whilst here? CHEQUERS KITCHEN BARNSOLE VINEYARD Book yourself onto a cookery class at Visit Barnsole Vineyard in the picturesque Chequers Restaurant in Deal. From artisan village of Staple. Take a 1 hour tour with bread-making to a fish masterclass or the winemaker followed by a taste of the baking mornings for the children, there’s still wines. Barnsole Vineyard makes a wide variety of cookery courses and English sparkling, still red and white wines workshops in their fully equipped teaching that are sold exclusively from the winery kitchen. Whether an accomplished door. cook or a beginner you’re sure to find something to suit you. THE WILD KITCHEN Adventure into the Kent landscape on a forage and feast course with The Wild Kitchen. Find fresh shellfish, edible seaweed and lots of other delicious food in secret places, learn how best to cook them and enjoy a wild gourmet lunch. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 9
Don’t think the district only has adventures for the big boys and girls. We have plenty to excite the little ones, too. They can meet the dinosaurs, go wild on a cycle ride, take a train ride or join in with the White Cliffs Countryside Partnership Green Gang activities. WINGHAM WILDLIFE PARK PARKS Take a walk on the wild side at Wingham Enjoy a family picnic in one of our beautiful Wildlife Park and meet a large array of parks in White Cliffs Country. There’s animals including the only penguins in a plenty to keep the kids entertained at Kent zoo! Let the kids go wild in the play Betteshanger Park. Bring your bikes area whilst you relax with a cup of tea in along or hire them whilst there and go on the café. a gentle family bike ride around the 250 acre park. SWIMMING If you fancy going for a swim, take a dip EAST KENT RAILWAY For a wonderful family day out, step back from one of the many beaches in the area in time and enjoy a 5 mile round trip on or if you prefer, Tides Leisure Centre has an Heritage trains at East Kent Railway. indoor leisure pool with wave machine which Ride the miniature railway, see the model is popular with families. For the under 10’s railway carriage and enjoy a leisurely stroll there is Walmer Paddling Pool. This popular around The Knees Woodland. traditional paddling pool is located on the seafront at Walmer Green next to the beach. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 11
A must for all walkers is a cliff top walk along the iconic White Cliffs of Dover to St Margaret’s. A new England Coast Path has recently opened on the White Cliffs of Dover. Natural England is establishing a 2,700 mile path around the entire English coastline and this path is the first section to be opened in South East England. See the newly installed ‘Dover Totems’ marking the pathway from Athol Terrace up to the White Cliffs of Dover. The totems have been inspired by the shape of lighthouses and Samphire Tower Go walking at Samphire Hoe with patterns and images decorating the totems.
With stunning coast and countryside White Cliffs Country has miles of walking trails to suit all ages and abilities. Whether an experienced walker or casual rambler you’re sure to find something to suit you. With a variety of walks – don’t miss the White Cliffs Walking Festival from 23-29 August. WALKING TRAILS WALKING THE DOG Put your boots on and explore miles of If you’re looking for somewhere to walk your marked walking and themed trails: dog during your stay, whether that be in the • Frontline Britain Trail open space at one of our parks or you fancy • Cliff Top Walks a walk on the beach, there’s lots of places • Samphire Hoe available. • Miner’s Way • Stour Valley Way For more details on places to stay and • The North Downs Way visit with your pet whilst visiting White Cliffs • Saxon Shore Way Country see our dedicated pet friendly page • Dover’s Bluebird Heritage Trail on the White Cliffs Country website helping • England Coast Path. you to plan your visit. Discover the history and heritage of our unique towns and villages by following the Historic Town and Village Trails. Discovering churches, buildings of interest and ancient hostelries with a wealth of history along the way. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 13
Go cycling
White Cliffs Country is the perfect place for cycling so come and explore the area on two wheels! Bring your bike with you or hire one and take advantage of our quiet country lanes, designated cycle paths and coastal tracks. There are even places where you can take your bike and cycle safely off-road. PEDAL POWER SAFE AND OFF-ROAD Whatever your ability take life at a slower Betteshanger Park has a smooth 3km pace and pedal one of the many waymarked tarmac track, with fast lane, providing routes: safe, traffic-free cycling. There is also • The Sandwich Way - Route 15 10km of rugged mountain bike trails • Cathedral to Coast - circular ride on running throughout the Park. Designed Regional Routes 16 and 17 with varying difficulty and for different • Cliffs and Castle Route - National Route 1. abilities, they are perfect for both beginners and those with off-road For great views of open countryside, experience. woods and hedgerows follow the Skylark Trail or explore the beautiful lower slopes of the North Downs between Deal and Shepherdswell on the Miner’s Way Cycle Trail. If you want to hire a bike in White Cliffs Country, there are a number of cycle hire shops to choose from - for more information visit our website. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 15
where HISTORY magnificent castles and forts COMES ALIVE A highlight to any visit is to explore our magnificent castles and forts. Britain’s spirit of resistance to unwanted invasion over the years is best symbolised by these amazing structures. Regular re-enactments take place to bring our history alive.
DOVER CASTLE RICHBOROUGH ROMAN FORT Built in the 1180’s by King Henry II and The impressive ruins of the Roman situated on top of the famous White Cliffs Township at Richborough mark the of Dover. Discover 2000 years of history. point from which the Romans launched Immerse yourself in the royal court of their successful invasion of Britain in King Henry II in the Great Tower or travel 43 AD. Extensive remains of the walls and deep inside the White Cliffs to explore the defensive ditches can be seen. atmospheric Underground Hospital within the Secret Wartime Tunnels. WESTERN HEIGHTS See living history displays at one of the DEAL CASTLE Western Heights Drop Redoubt Open For a fascinating day out on the Kent Weekends, explore the historic fortress coast look no further. Built by the order of and descend the Grand Shaft Staircase. King Henry VIII it is one of the finest Tudor Built during the Napoleonic Wars, to link artillery castles in England. Come and the Harbour to the barracks on the Western explore the whole of the castle from the Heights, the staircase winds round a central exciting dark passages to the first floor light-well 140 feet through the cliffs. captain’s residence. WALMER CASTLE AND GARDENS Built in 1540 as part of Henry VIII’s chain of coastal defences, the castle has been transformed through centuries of domestic refinements to an elegant stately home. See the original Wellington boots, the reception rooms of HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and explore the magnificent gardens. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 17
1918 remembered
ZEEBRUGGE 1918 Zeebrugge 100 - The Centenary of the Zeebrugge Raid. On St George’s Day 1918 the Dover To mark the anniversary (23rd March 2018) events will be taking place Patrol and the Royal Marines carried in Dover and Deal. out special operations to block the canal mouths of Zeebrugge and Ostend to prevent German submarines entering the English Channel. Over 70 ships took part in the raids on Zeebrugge and Ostend (23rd March 1918) and at Ostend again on 10 May 1918. Alongside warships, WHAT’S ON A service at St James’ Cemetery less conventional vessels were followed by a parade, led by the Royal used, including two Mersey Ferries. Marines, from the Market Square, Dover, The Royal Marines from Deal were to the Maison Dieu (Town Hall), where the extensively engaged in action as part of Zeebrugge Bell will be rung, as it has been storming parties. since its presentation to the Town by the King of the Belgians in 1918. The raid was masterminded by Vice Admiral Roger Keyes of the Dover “Twisting the Dragon’s Tail” a special Patrol. Admiral Keyes (Lord Keyes of exhibition will be staged at Dover Museum Dover & Zeebrugge) is buried in the St and Bronze Age Boat Gallery. James’ Cemetery in Dover which also includes the graves of other servicemen The launch in Walmer and Deal of lost during the raids. Royal Marines Heritage Trails. Further information about the events, and In total, 11 Victoria Crosses were about the history of this remarkable exploit awarded for gallantry during the raids are on our website. on Zeebrugge and Ostend. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 19
amazing museums
Our past is what shaped our surroundings and gives us our identity and nowhere is this more apparent in White Cliffs Country as the ‘Gateway to Britain’. Discover the stories of our past, get to know about the WWII pilots, look in wonder at the Magna Carta and hear about our mining heritage. BATTLE OF BRITAIN MEMORIAL SANDWICH GUILDHALL MUSEUM The Battle of Britain Memorial situated Visit the newly refurbished Sandwich high up on the White Cliffs at Capel-le- Guildhall Museum with updated displays Ferne is dedicated to Churchill’s famous and an array of artefacts plus display of an “Few” who fought in the skies overhead original Magna Carta and Charter of the to keep their country free from invasion. Forest. Visit the iconic building ‘The Wing’ and FREE ENTRY. see the high tech multimedia Scramble Experience which gives visitors an idea of DOVER MUSEUM life during the Battle. AND BRONZE AGE BOAT GALLERY Dover Museum is our flagship, with KENT MINING MUSEUM family activity days throughout the year. Kent Coal Mining Museum, due to open See fascinating real objects, models this year, will be housed in a new state-of- and original pictures showing the history the-art Visitor Centre at Betteshanger Park. of Dover at the award-winning Dover The Museum celebrates and preserves Museum & Bronze Age Boat Gallery. Kent’s coal mining heritage and embraces FREE ENTRY. a unique collection of oral history, archives and artefacts. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 21
Dover, Deal and Sandwich have THE BRONZE AGE BOAT Come and see the oldest known sea- all had long associations with going boat at the Bronze Age Boat the sea. From a 3,500 year Gallery in Dover Museum. Discovered in 1992, just yards from where it is old boat and Cinque Ports to now displayed in its own gallery, the modern day Dover being one of boat is thought to be some 3,500 years old. the busiest ferry terminals in the world with a thriving cruise industry and a marina. maritime history
SANDWICH HAVEN DEAL MARITIME & LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM Sandwich was also once a bustling and Despite not having a harbour, Deal was prosperous port and the quay was the once a major port and is steeped in basis of Sandwich’s prosperity. From history. Situated in the heart of Deal Town here to the sea was a wide protected Centre is Deal Maritime and Local History river estuary known as the Sandwich Museum with a wonderful collection of Haven which formed one of the best historic model boats, maritime exhibits and medieval trading posts in the country. displays on local history. The Haven began silting up and little now remains; the sea has retreated by TIMEBALL TOWER MUSEUM hundreds of yards. On Deal Seafront is the Timeball Tower Museum. Visitors can see interactive, video and static displays covering 3 centuries of involvement in signalling, the fight against smuggling and its vital role in safe navigation of distant shores. DEAL MEMORIAL BANDSTAND Deal has also had a long association with the Royal Marines who were stationed at barracks in Deal from 1869 to 1996 and return each year to play a concert on Deal Memorial Bandstand. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 23
hidden history displayed SOUTH FORELAND LIGHTHOUSE Walk along the famous White Cliffs of Dover to South Foreland Lighthouse. This striking Victorian landmark was the location for the first international wireless transmission by Marconi in 1898. Today visitors can take a guided tour of the lighthouse or relax in Mrs Knott’s tea room. FAN BAY DEEP SHELTER Take a journey into the past, 70 feet underground, on a guided tour of Fan Bay Deep Shelter in the White Cliffs of Dover.
CRABBLE CORN MILL ST MARGARET’S MUSEUM Head to Crabble Corn Mill, the only Opposite the Pines Garden, in the working water mill in Kent. Located in the beautiful village of St Margaret’s Bay, is picturesque village of River, the mill was St Margaret’s Museum with displays on built in 1812 and is packed with history. local history including former resident Noel Coward. PRINCESS OF WALES’S ROYAL REGIMENT & QUEEN’S REGIMENT MUSEUM WHITE MILL RURAL HERITAGE CENTRE In the grounds of Dover Castle is the Built in 1760, climb up inside a restored Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment & smock mill at the White Mill Rural Heritage Queen’s Regiment Museum. With a series Centre in Sandwich. The site also includes a of displays, interactive and video recordings, miller’s cottage and displays of country life. the museum traces the history of the regiment. View the changing exhibitions of HAVEN HEIGHTS artefacts in The Stone Hut - built in 1912 it is Newly opened in Sandwich is Haven Heights now used as an archaeological store. at St Peter’s Church where you can explore the churches centuries-old tower. Take a ROMAN PAINTED HOUSE journey through the ages as you ascend the Not far from Dover’s town centre is the stairs of the tower and see views across this Roman Painted House. Built about AD 200 it historic medieval town. formed part of a large mansio or official hotel for travellers crossing the English Channel. DOVER TRANSPORT MUSEUM Just a few miles outside town you will find Dover Transport Museum with displays of over fifty historic road vehicles, from a Penny Farthing Bicycle to a Double Deck Bus, many arranged in period street scenes. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 25
WHERE BEAUTY MEETS HISTORY beautiful formal gardens WALMER CASTLE GARDENS Enjoy the tranquil setting of the Queen Mother’s Garden as she did while here at Walmer Castle. The Queen Mother was Lord Warden for 23 years, and this contemporary garden was created in honour of her 95th birthday. The Queen Mother declared, “I have been given many presents before, but never a garden”. Nearby, the rest of the gardens have plenty more to offer. Explore the mature trees of the woodland walk, a haven for spring snowdrops, and autumn leaves. On the Oval Lawn, take time to read a book, or play with the new giant garden games in the summer.
In White Cliffs Country we are proud to have a wonderfully varied selection of formal gardens. From the beautiful gardens at Walmer Castle and Goodnestone Park through to the exquisite Salutation Gardens of Sandwich. GOODNESTONE PARK GARDENS PINES GARDENS AND MUSEUM Considered to be one of the best gardens Situated behind the White Cliffs are 6 in the South East covering approximately acres of garden with many fine features 14 acres including woodland area, walled including a cascade and adjoining lake, garden and a large collection of roses and grass labyrinth and statue of Sir Winston herbaceous plants. Goodnestone Park Churchill. There is a Museum featuring also has connections to Jane Austen who local history including information on Noel was a frequent visitor. Coward and Ian Fleming - both former residents of St Margaret’s. There is also a Tea Room serving delicious wholesome SALUTATION GARDENS light lunches, cream teas and hot and The beautiful Lutyens-designed garden, cold drinks. with its infamous long borders and tree-lined avenues, feature artistic and inventive planting that provide visitors with an oasis of serenity and calm. Wander around Lake Patricia, visit the vegetable garden and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 27
SAMPHIRE HOE Get up close to nature with a visit to Samphire Hoe. Samphire Hoe was made from the material dug to create the Channel Tunnel and is a stunning location with wildflowers, birds and peace and quiet. NATURE RESERVES We have wildlife in abundance in White Cliffs Country. Why not book a wildlife tour, a seal nature lovers spotting trip or visit one of the nature reserves? A good place to see the wildflowers and butterflies of ancient chalk grassland is at Whinless Down Nature Reserve. This nature reserve is a gateway to the Area of Outstanding Natural WHERE NATURE Beauty. BRINGS HARMONY
Walk along any of our beaches and take time to go rock pooling, go pond dipping in Kearsney Parks, take a boat trip or climb up onto our unique chalk Downs - this is a diverse and wonderful area for all who love and appreciate nature. KEARSNEY PARKS ST MARGARET’S BAY Take a leisurely stroll around Kearsney St Margaret’s Bay is a fantastic place for Abbey just on the outskirts of Dover. The rock pooling - a great way to discover gardens are laid out as informal parkland what wildlife exists along the coast. and you can just enjoy a walk or relax watching the wildlife on the lake. SANDWICH BIRD OBSERVATORY Birdlife thrives in this diverse landscape - On the opposite side of the road to listen for the call of the terns and the oyster Kearsney Abbey is Russell Gardens. The catcher. The egret has become a common gardens are laid out in a more formal sight on our marshes and buzzards can style and are popular all year round for be seen catching the wind above our a relaxing walk. £3m investment from woodland. Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery holds open days and talks. Fund has recently been secured for restoration plans for Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 29
eating local WHERE local means local
Indulge in the quintessentially English pursuit of taking afternoon tea. For that special lunch or evening meal you have a choice from traditional English fare through to continental and world cuisine and if catering for yourself locally produced means local! EATING OUT LOCALLY PRODUCED Take your pick from a wide range of great There are plenty of places in White Cliffs places to eat out in White Cliffs Country Country to find locally produced meat, - from cafes, delicatessens, bistros and fruit and vegetables. Pick your own fruit, restaurants you’ll be spoilt for choice. including strawberries, cherries and Why not try some locally caught fresh raspberries, at one of the local farms. fish whilst dining in one of the wonderful Get some freshly caught fish from the restaurants and pubs. fishmongers or enjoy the buzz of a bustling street market or visit one of the Relax and enjoy a traditional English many farmers’ markets. Afternoon Tea of homemade cakes, scones with clotted cream and jam and tea served in china tea cups in a quirky tea room or hotel. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 31
eat, drink and be merry
MICROPUBS From the traditional country pub to wine bars there are plenty of If you want to try somewhere different to the traditional pub or wine bar, there places to relax with a drink, and maybe a bite to eat, in White Cliffs are a number of micropubs across Country. Here are a some suggestions... the district. The micropubs serve real ales and ciders and some even offer a selection of wines and spirits plus draught and bottled beers. The first micropub to open in Dover was the Rack of Ales. The Thirsty Scarecrow Cider House was Britain’s first micro cider house and was OLDEST PUB IN DOVER CRAFT BEERS recently awarded CAMRA’s Dover, Deal Originally built in 1365, The White Horse The George and Dragon located in the & Sandwich District Cider Pub of the is Dover’s oldest pub. Not only worth a medieval town of Sandwich is a 15th Year 2017. visit for the good pub food and real ales century inn serving craft beers. but also to see the walls where successful For a relaxed environment without English Channel Swimmers sign their 4TH OUT OF 20 TOP COASTAL PUBS television, a juke box, fruit machines names to record their achievements. With panoramic sea views in St Margaret’s or mobile phones head to The Just Bay is The Coastguard Pub. The pub Reproach in Deal. was recently Number 4 in The Times ONE OF THE TOP 15 BEST WINE BARS IN UK newspaper’s ‘Top 20 Coastal Pubs’. The Mermaids Locker is a 13th century Le Pinardier in Deal was recently building in Sandwich offering real ale mentioned in Olive Magazine’s listing of ON THE BEACH and cider available from Kent cider the top 15 best UK wine bars serving The Zetland Arms sits right on the pebble makers. food. If you fancy a cocktail visit The beach looking out on coloured beach huts In the picturesque village of Lanes in Deal, you can even book a fun and magnificent sea views bordered by Barfrestone is The Wrong Turn. This packed cocktail masterclass here! the white cliffs. chalet style pub is just 5 minutes’ walk from St Nicholas’ Church with its Norman architecture and wonderful stone carvings. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 33
WHERE YOU CAN STAY A LITTLE WHILE places to stay
We have a wide selection of places to stay to satisfy every taste and budget. From cosy self-catering cottages, quirky huts and glamping, to traditional bed and breakfasts through to luxury hotels. Wherever you decide to stay there’s always a warm welcome in White Cliffs Country. Looking for a great day out, weekend Further information break or UK holiday? Then escape to Find and reserve Guest Houses, Hotels White Cliffs Country - we’ve got plenty of and Historic Inns offering you a range of accommodation for you to choose from. Town, Rural and Urban Areas. www.stayindover.co.uk Quality is a very important part of the visitor experience and in recognition of this, all accommodation featured on our website has either a valid inspection certificate carried out by a recognised external agency such as Visit England, the AA or those who have signed the White Cliffs Country Accommodation Charter. Full accommodation details can be found on our website - www.whitecliffscountry.org.uk where you can also check out great ideas to make your visit even more special. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 35
DAYS OUT HANDBOOK Now you have read about some of what is on offer, where do you begin? In this section you’ll find information about our towns and villages in White dover Cliffs Country which are overflowing with character containing unique shops, theatres, special days out and things to do. With an abundance of history and heritage plus stunning and unforgettable landscape, there is something for everyone in one of the most beautiful parts of England. Come for a day or stay for a week and have an experience to remember.
DOVER DAYS OUT Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment & Queen’s Regiment Museum t: 01304 240121 Dover town nestles under the shadow of its Coker Sea Fishing Charters t: 01303 872329 www.cokerseafishing.com Roman Painted House magnificent castle. The busy port boasts t: 01304 203279 some wonderful hidden gems. Dover Connaught Park www.theromanpaintedhouse.co.uk Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery sits t: 01304 872408 (to book tennis courts) behind the old Market Hall facade. Just up Tours of the Realm Crabble Corn Mill from Market Square is the Roman Painted t: 07595 769615 www.toursoftherealms.com t: 01304 823292 www.ccmt.org.uk House - a fine example of a Roman house in Britain. Dover Castle WHAT’S ON t: 01304 211067 Don’t miss the opportunity to see some new www.english-heritage.org.uk/dovercastle MARCH artwork we have in Dover - our very own Dover Leisure Centre Dover Film Festival Banksy! The large piece of artwork recently t: 01304 201145 www.yourleisure.uk.com Two films from 1977 and 2017, recording appeared overnight on a building near to the events and lives of the people of Dover. town centre. Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery MAY If you fancy doing some shopping, located t: 01304 201066 www.dovermuseum.co.uk Crabble Corn Mill Beer & Cider in a beautiful marina setting is De Bradelei Dover Sea Safari Festival Wharf outlet centre with up to 70% discount t: 01304 212880 www.doverseasafari.co.uk on branded fashion and homeware. AUGUST Dover Sea Sports Centre Dover Music Festival Redevelopment of the St James area in the t: 01304 212880 www.doverwatersports.co.uk heart of the town centre is well underway with the six-screen Cineworld multiplex Dover Town Hall Tours Port of Dover Community Regatta t: 01304 201066 to check tours running A fantastic festival of family fun. cinema and retail shops due to open this year. Dover Transport Museum NOVEMBER/DECEMBER t: 01304 822409 Dover Christmas Lights Take in the panorama of the Channel and www.dovertransportmuseum.org.uk Christmas llights switch on. see across to the coast of France on a stroll along the seafront promenade - maybe Fire Fox Fishing Charters ALL YEAR ROUND tempting you on a day-trip on one of the t: 01580 891198 www.firefox-fishingcharters.co.uk Dover Castle regular ferry sailings. Don’t forget your Events held thoughout the year. Kearsney Abbey passport! t: 01304 829046 www.kearsneyparks.co.uk whitecliffscountry.org.uk 37
deal and walmer
DEAL & WALMER DAYS OUT WHAT’S ON Walk to the modern award-winning Deal Castle MAY restaurant at the end of Deal’s 1000ft long t: 01304 372762 Walmer Brocante pier and look back at a view that has hardly www.english-heritage.org.uk/dealcastle Antique and Collectables Fair on Walmer changed in over a century. Green held on May Bank Holiday weekend. Deal Maritime & Local History Museum www.dealmuseum.co.uk JULY Deal’s unspoilt seafront, full of dangerous smuggling haunts in the 1800’s, is now a Deal Festival of Music and the Arts Deal Pier wonderful collection of colourful buildings International and national artists perform at venues t: 01304 363815 complemented by the fishing boats hauled in Dover, Deal and Sandwich at the annual www.dover.gov.uk up onto the shingle beach giving it a unique popular two-week festival showcasing everything vista. Tides Leisure & Indoor Tennis Centre from street music to opera and local art. t: 01304 373399 A short stroll from the seafront you will www.yourleisure.uk.com Deal Carnival and Regatta Considered the South East’s oldest and finest find the Timeball Tower Museum, Maritime Timeball Tower Museum carnival and regatta. The packed programme Museum, churches, houses and pubs and t: 01304 362444 includes live music, firework displays, a rowing the narrow lanes around historic Middle www.dealtimeball.co.uk regatta, culminating with a colourful carnival. Street. You’re not the first to enjoy the charm of this town though - Lord Horatio Nelson Walmer Castle & Gardens AUGUST himself entertained Lady Emma Hamilton at t: 01304 364288 Walmer Picnic on the Green the Royal Hotel, where you can still dine and www.english-heritage.org.uk/walmercastle Community picnic on Walmer Green with stalls. stay. Walmer Paddling Pool t: 01304 373399 SEPTEMBER Why not also indulge yourself at the many Deal Braderie wonderful tea shops or browse around www.yourleisure.uk.com Open air antiques and memorabilia fayre held quaint gift shops, art galleries and antique through the town. emporiums? NOVEMBER/DECEMBER Deal Christmas Lights Christmas carnival, parade and lights switch on. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 39
sandwich
SANDWICH DAYS OUT WHAT’S ON Said to be “one of the most well preserved Gazen Salts Nature Reserve MAY medieval towns in Britain”. Built in 1579, the t: 01304 617197 Sandwich Food Fayre Guildhall dominates the Market Square that Two-day food fayre in the heart of historic was first a corn market and then a cattle market St Peter’s Church & Haven Heights Sandwich Town with stalls focused on quality www.visitchurches.org.uk/sandwich local products. The event celebrates the and still has a weekly Thursday market and a monthly farmers’ market. sandwich itself, named after the 4th Earl of The Salutation Gardens Sandwich in 1762, so come to Sandwich and t: 01304 619919 enjoy a quality sandwich in Sandwich! It is well worth a wander down the newly www.the-salutation.com refurbished quayside to Fisher Gate - dating JUNE from 1384 and one of the two surviving original Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory Le Weekend medieval town gates - the other is the Barbican & Field Centre Two-day festival in Sandwich including an which later served as a toll gate for the bridge. t: 01304 617341 authentic Normandy market, food stalls, music, www.sbbot.org.uk classic cars and can can dancing. Food has always been associated with the town Sandwich Guildhall Museum JULY – in the 18th century the Earl of Sandwich is t: 01304 617197 Sandwich Folk & Ale Festival reputed to have devised the popular snack, and www.sandwichtowncouncil.gov.uk this is celebrated in the annual food festival. Annual festival with music and dancing in Sandwich pubs and streets. Range of folk Sandwich Guildhall Tours musical styles with an outdoor stage on the There are many pubs, restaurants and cafés t: 01304 617197 Guildhall Forecourt. found in the winding lanes of the town as well as www.sandwichtowncouncil.gov.uk a variety of unique independent shops. AUGUST Sandwich River Bus Sandwich Festival & Seal Spotting Trips Popular annual event with street stalls, Italian t: 07958 376183 food market, street music and classic car www.sandwichriverbus.co.uk meets. White Mill Rural Heritage Centre NOVEMBER/DECEMBER t: 07900 531 284 www.whitemillheritagecentre.org.uk Sandwich Christmas Lights Christmas carnival, parade and lights switch on. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 41
coast
OUR COAST AND COASTAL VILLAGES DAYS OUT WHAT’S ON Visit the beautiful village of St Margaret’s. Battle of Britain Memorial JANUARY & FEBRUARY Paddle in the sea at the bay or take a fantastic t: 01303 249292 Samphire Hoe walk along the coastal path on the world www.battleofbritainmemorial.org Exhibition: Amazing Wild Weather famous White Cliffs of Dover to South Foreland The coast here at Samphire Hoe can take a Fan Bay Deep Shelter battering but it can be stunningly appealing. Lighthouse for breath-taking views and t: 01304 207326 afternoon tea. The village has been home to Storms, sunshine and clouds all affect the way www.nationaltrust.org.uk/white-cliffs-dover some famous faces including Noel Coward and we feel about the landscape. This exhibition is James Bond novelist, Ian Fleming. Fleming’s Kent Battle of Britain Museum a celebration of the beauty and power of the book, Moonraker, is largely based in St t: 01303 893140 elements. Margaret’s and nearby Kingsdown. www.kbobm.org MARCH From South Foreland Lighthouse head along Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club Samphire Hoe the cliff top path to the village of Kingsdown and t: 01304 206262 Exhibition: Exploring The Fantastic Local Coast stop for a drink or a bite to eat at the Zetland www.rcpyc.org.uk & Countryside Celebrating 25 Years of Green Arms, located on the beach. Gang. This exhibition shares those special Samphire Hoe natural places, wildlife and the joy of exploring t: 01304 225649 Overlooking the English Channel lays the village www.samphirehoe.com and discovery. of Capel-le-Ferne, home to the Battle of Britain Memorial and the visitor experience, the Wing. South Foreland Lighthouse Samphire Hoe t: 01304 852463 Easter Egg Challenge (Green Gang) Can you www.nationaltrust.org.uk/south-foreland- conquer the eggcellent egg assault course? lighthouse/ Dare you join in the wacky egg rolling? The Pines Garden Tea Room AUGUST & Museum White Cliffs Walking Festival t: 01304 851737 (Garden) Huge variety of walks to suit all abilities and 01304 853173 (Tea Room) www.pinesgarden.co.uk interests. Whether your interests cover history or geocaching or flora and fauna, the festival White Cliffs of Dover has a walk for you. t: 01304 202756 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/white-cliffs-dover whitecliffscountry.org.uk 43
countryside
OUR GREEN AND PLEASANT LAND! DAYS OUT WHAT’S ON We are best known for our coastal areas and Barnsole Vineyard JUNE the famous white cliffs but travel just a few miles m: 07772 300511 www.barnsole.co.uk Western Heights Open Weekend View the Western Heights during one of the inland and you will discover the beauty of the Betteshanger Park www.betteshanger-park.co.uk Open Weekends when the Drop Redoubt, one North Downs and surrounding countryside with of the two forts on the Western Heights and many little villages and hamlets nestling in our Chillenden Mill the Grand Shaft will be open to visitors. green and pleasant land! T: 01304 841970 East Kent Railway ALL YEAR Temple Ewell is situated in the Dour valley and t: 01304 832042 www.eastkentrailway.co.uk East Kent Railway was first mentioned in a charter of c.772. In Regular events held throughout the year – see Frontline Britain Trail website for details. the village of Shepherdswell there are two fine t: 01304 241806 old yew trees in the churchyard which are www.whitecliffscountryside.org.uk thought to be around 1,000 years’ old and from Goodnestone Park Gardens Goodnestone Park Gardens Various events held through the year from plant here you can step back in time with a trip on a t: 01304 840107 sales to charity events. heritage railway. www.goodnestoneparkgardens.co.uk Little Farthingloe Farm Betteshanger Park Coldred is one of the highest places in East Lots of events held throughout the year from t: 01304 212040 Kent, nearly 400ft above sea level. Barfrestone Open Air Cinemas to Bird of Prey Experience is known for its village church with its Norman Richborough Roman Fort & Amphitheatre and Halloween events. architecture and wonderful stone carvings. t: 01304 612013 www.english-heritage.org.uk/richborough White Cliffs Countryside Partnership Other examples of Norman churches can be found at Worth and Eastry. The Women’s Land Army Museum Regular events for the whole family throughout t: 01304 212040 the year, from walks to exhibitions and Goodnestone has a connection to Jane Austen workshops. Western Heights – Local Nature Reserve who visited on many occasions. A renovated t: 01304 241806 smock mill stands on a hill at Chillenden, with www.whitecliffscountryside.org.uk fine countryside views. Whinless Down – Local Nature Reserve t: 01304 241806 Wingham has several half-timbered houses www.whitecliffscountryside.org.uk in the High Street which are over 500 years’ Wingham Wildlife Park old and Ash retains 11 of its 12 original manor t: 01227 720836 houses. www.winghamwildlifepark.co.uk whitecliffscountry.org.uk 45
USEFUL DOVER VISITOR INFORMATION INFORMATION CENTRES Making the most of your visit to White Cliffs Country Dover Visitor Information Centre T: 01304 201066 E: tic@doveruk.com W: www.whitecliffscountry.org.uk Deal Visitor Information Centre T: 01304 369576 E: info@deal.gov.uk Sandwich Visitor Information Centre (Seasonal) T: 01304 613565 E: tourism@sandwichtowncouncil.gov.uk
HOW TO FIND US Within easy access from London and the Continent, White Cliffs Country is easy to reach and perfect for a short or long break. The High Speed Rail Link makes us only 67 minutes from London on the train! France is only 75 minutes on a Cross Channel ferry, the M20 and M2 roads link us to the city and the rest of the South East. Dover, Deal, Sandwich and our countryside are serviced by regular trains and buses both locally, as well as to and from London. BY COACH, BUS OR CAR BY TRAIN BY BIKE BY COACH: The High Speed Train operates from There is an extensive network of cycle National Express operates a regular direct London St Pancras to Dover, Deal and routes throughout White Cliffs Country. link from London to Dover and Deal. Sandwich. South Eastern operates For full details visit our website. For times, fares and information: services from London Charing Cross www.whitecliffscountry.org.uk National Express and London Victoria to Dover, Deal and 08717 818181 Sandwich. BY SEA www.nationalexpress.com National Rail Enquiries CROSS CHANNEL TRAVEL: BY LOCAL BUS: 03457 48 49 50 Ferry and train crossings between Dover Detailed times of all local bus services are www.nationalrail.co.uk to Calais and Dunkirk operate on a regular available from Stagecoach Buses. basis throughout the day. Stagecoach 0871 200 2233 Continental train connections can P&O Ferries 0800 130 0030 www.stagecoachbus.com be made at Ebbsfleet and Ashford DFDS Seaways 0871 574 7235 International. Eurotunnel 08443 353535 BY CAR OR MOTORBIKE: Eurostar 03432 186 186 Both the M20 and M2 connect directly to White Cliffs Country. whitecliffscountry.org.uk 47
Shopping Outlet Centre dover map Derived from out of copyright Ordnance Survey mapping and updated from original sources.. © Dover District Council 2018
deal map 1 Sandown 1 Golf Courses College t Rd th S CYCLE ROUTE CLIFFS & CAST The Marina 2 Landmark Centre Ark Lane Nor Road 1 t Alfred Dolphin St Stree LES 3 Maritime Museum Peter Square Princ ad Ro Exchange St ess S 4 Town Hall rn eet ste treet 5 Astor Theatre Str Griffin Street er Middle Street We Wa t 6 Police Station Silver St Rob DEAL Nels erts High Street 7 Deal Pier We New St Golden St on S st S Stre tree 8 Tides Leisure Pool t TOWN MAP et r St tree t reet Farrie & Indoor Tennis Centre e St Duk 9 Walmer Paddling Pool t Beach Street Coppin S ad 10 Deal Castle n Ro Middle St Unio er St Rd Union Rd 2 Brew reet 11 Timeball Tower 12 Bus Station 4 Rd Oak Stre et d High Street St Patricks 13 Library Roa ’s Pass 3 ges St George Chapel St eor 14 Walmer Castle St G reet St Andrews et St 15 Golf Course & Campsite 5 Mark Rd et Centu pe King Stre 16 Betteshanger Park ry Wa lk nho Sta Beach 17 Walmer Bandstand & Green et 7 Stre Park Street DEAL PIER West Street 13 ad Deal Railway Broad Street Ro Station et tre ert Bridgeside en S Que Alb Middle St London Road 12 16 South Street ad 6 Be n Ro Sondes Rd A258 ech wo Wellingto to SANDWICH od Av 11 en Stanley Road ue Prince of Wales Terrace Blenheim Clanwilliam Road Victoria Road Nothcote Rd onsfield Rd Road Beac Ranelagh Road Th Rd eal Castle D eD riv Road e Hope ad rd Ro d Giffo 10 oa ll R err Mi Douglas T Park Avenue St Granville ad 8 ourt Rd Ro Ravensc CP one B le n he dst KEY im Gla Ro The Strand ad Main Traffic Routes Marine Road Cheriton Road One Way System Ble d nhe No im rth Roa Pedestrian Precinct Av e Ba rrack Road 9 Mill Cycle routes Wo ods toc Toilets k Rd h York Road Pat Car Parks Campbell Road ney R Sto Visitor Information Ca na 17 Woolaston Rd CYCLE ROUTE 1 ALME R Centre da A CLIFFS & CASTLES Ro L ad 14 15 K Y A258 to Dover S from W K TRAIL Derived from out of copyright Ordnance Survey mapping and updated from original sources.. © Dover District Council 2018
sandwich map Ri GAZEN SALTS ch b 76 NATURE or RESERVE ou H gh 15 CLIFFS & CASTLES SANDWICH 5 CYCLE ROUTE 1 UTE WAY 6 Road S E RO TOWN MAP THE CYCL ANDWIC A257 TO w CANTERBURY ow NE T Ro & LONDON t. R HA se TE Co Sc ad FT adi et o ho SGA R ol tre Par te AM hS I RI sga OR Ro VE urc T R TO ad 6 Ram SLE O 5 Ch ST O U A2 Vi R c La ara et ne ge re et St re g Gu n chery St i St. couild- wl op et De Lan nt e ter Lo lf Bo St Stre re Pot et Three 11 12 12 13 n et Kings Yard n. 10 11 Har ll L 3 4 Be Up . De 45 pe 8 Ln lf S Market St. The But Seven rS 9 ay Post tra Mkt. tre nd et Alley Qu St. P St 15 14 Holy ree t 10 9 eter Ghost Town et Cattle Wall Alley Path s St t stin The B 14 13 Au ne King 87 reet warks 1 La tree St utts re High Stre et er S le Ne w The Bul Whitefriars Short St. Fish ad t So 16 1617 St wn Ro 15 in Way Street re Sando Moa et Churc h St. CLIFFS & CASTLES trider The Cha Camping & Whitefriars Meadow CYCLE ROUTE 1 Caravan Park St. iard Knigh Gall all Barenesende Ct. W Mill W ill M all Pla Rope walk ce ad Ro Mill Wall 15 17 od 16 16 wo St. Georges New Street an Lees M 1 Guildhall Town Hall & Museum Road 2 Sandwich Sports Centre St. Georges Fo De d rd 3 Cinema wi lfsi Sandwich oa ch sR de Pla Railway rge 4 Library ce Station oe d .G Roa 5 White Mill Museum arts St St. B Poplar Ave. 6 Richborough Roman Fort 7 The Salutation Gardens elwo od Haz Meado 8 Fisher Gate KEY w 9 Old Customs House Main Traffic Routes 10 The Quay One Way System 11 Barbican 2 Cycle routes 12 River Tours 13 Bus Station Toilets 15 AY 14 St Peter’s Church Car Parks TE H W D A258 R OU WIC TO DEAL & DOVER 15 Sandwich Bay Deal Road E Visitor Information CL N TH 16 Golf Courses Centre CY E SA (Guildhall, open summer only). Derived from out of copyright Ordnance Survey mapping and updated from original sources.. © Dover District Council 2018
area map Westmarsh Preston To Ramsgate and Margate Richborough Roman Fort Wingham Wildlife Park A257 SANDWICH Wingham Ash Saxon Shoreway North Downs Way A257 Staple Ancient Cinque Port Barnsole Vineyard Barbican Gate To Canterbury Secret Gardens of Sandwich Worth White Mill Rural Hertiage Centre Bird Observatory Goodnestone Eastry Guildhall & Museum Goodnesstone A258 River Trips Park Gardens Golf Courses Adisham Chillenden DEAL Betteshanger Deal Pier Ayelsham Country Park Betteshanger Maritime & Local History Museum Deal Castle Tilmanstone Tides Leisure Pool To Canterbury Astor Theatre and London Barfrestone Arts Centre Walmer Timeball Tower Walmer Paddling Pool Walmer Castle A256 Shepherdswell & Gardens East Kent A258 Kingsdown Denton Railway A2 Martin Mill Wootton Motorsport circuit Whitfield Lydden A260 St Margaret’s Temple Transport Ewell St Margaret’s Museum Museum & Pines Garden River Dover Crabble Corn Mill Castle South Foreland Lighthouse Alkham NT White Cliffs DOVER Densole Eastern Kent Docks Battle of Briatin Cruise Ferries to France Museum Terminal Hawkinge A20 A20 Dover Museum & Bronze Age Boat Gallery Roman Painted House Dover Leisure Centre Capel-le-Ferne Kearsney Parks To Ashford Battle of Britain Memorial Boat Tours and London and Wing Exhibition Channel Tunnel De Bradelei Wharf Centre Shopping Western Heights Samphire Hoe Little Farthingloe Farm & Folkestone The Women's Land Army Museum FRANCE Derived from out of copyright Ordnance Survey mapping and updated from original sources.. © Dover District Council 2018
Photography Photographs throughout this publication have been kindly supplied by: Barnsole Vineyard Betteshanger Sustainable Parks Chequers Kitchen Cookery School Clare Limbrey Dawn Bogue Derek Walker Dover District Council Dover Marine Services English Heritage Explore Kent Greenhill Glamping, Alkham Court National Trust Paul Wells Peter Kesby Peter Smith Photography The Wild Kitchen Val Mercer White Cliffs Countryside Partnership White Horse Inn, Dover (© Jon Peters) Wingham Wildlife Park This publication was designed and produced by Dover District Council, Creative Design and Tourism Departments. Printed by Buckland Media, Dover. For further information: Dover Visitor Information Centre Dover Museum, Market Square, Dover, Kent CT16 1PH Tel: 01304 201066 Email: tic@doveruk.com Web: www.whitecliffscountry.org.uk
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