The White Cliffs of Dover
The White Cliffs of Dover
4.5
Points of Interest & LandmarksNature & Wildlife AreasGeologic Formations
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
About
Towering white, silent guardians of Great Britain, drawing a protective curtain on England’s shore, the White Cliffs of Dover are an evocative, enduring, iconic and world-renowned symbol of Great Britain. A place where both journeys begin and joyful homecomings are celebrated; where invaders in the past were repelled and now communities enjoy tea, friendship, shelter and a warm welcome. The newly-surfaced section of the King Charles III coast path follows the White Cliffs and there is no entrance fee for foot travellers. Normal parking charges apply and National Trust members can park for free. Enjoy stunning views of the cliffs, the port of Dover, and the Dover Strait - one of the busiest shipping routes in the world. On a clear day, you can even see France. When you have finished your walk, call in at the Visitor Centre and browse our shop for a gift or souvenir of your visit and have a refreshing drink or why not treat yourself to a traditional English cream tea?
Duration: 2-3 hours
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- fire-tower3,123 contributionsOverall, a very enjoyable tripVisited early on a Sunday morning and walked along the trail. The walk was extremely nice with very nice views of the sea and the famed white cliffs at various parts of the trail. There were many folks who brought their dogs and others who had picnics on the grassy areas. We also met some bird watchers who explained what they were looking out for, and their equipment were very professional looking. Overall, a leisure stroll and a very enjoyable trip.Visited September 2023Travelled with familyWritten 10 October 2023
- Clive DIpswich, United Kingdom120 contributionsFantastic day outWent to Dover Castle first, then drove to here. Just £5.00 to park the car was excellent value. Toilets were clean. Walks were marked out well, and the pathways were easy to walk on. The cafe overlooked the port, which was interesting to watch the ferries coming & going. All in all, it was a fantastic walk with fantastic scenery.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 October 2023
- SKG109Orinda, California1,117 contributionsBeautiful Day on the Cliffs!The GPS had a tough time getting us to the South Foreland Lighthouse! Finally, we asked a local, and he told us to park and walk the last 1/2 mile. The Lighthouse was pretty with lots of benches for people to have a picnic. The small cafe was also buzzing with activity. Plus there was a rest room there! We got lost walking back to the car but wasn't too bad. Then we drove to the National Trust location past the Leeds Castle. You pay to park. They have a cafe, a shop and bathrooms. We went for a short hike on a gorgeous day, which I understand was very lucky!Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 12 November 2023
- Geoff HSissinghurst, United Kingdom17,427 contributionsShould not be missedIf there is one place you must visit in Kent, this is it. The views from the paths are stunning. Unfortunately, not all of the paths are wheelchair or pushchair friendly but those that are still offer superb views. And when you've finished your viewing, there's an informative visitor centre with a cafe and clean toilets. Should not be missed.Visited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 23 January 2024
- amanda5805Duncan, Canada7,338 contributionsThe Iconic White Cliffs of DoverOur road trip through the UK & Ireland began with a memorable stop at the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, and it exceeded our expectations. We found several parking areas, each accommodating between 10 to 25 cars, and were fortunate to find them nearly empty, with just a handful of vehicles scattered throughout. Managed by the National Trust, there was a small parking fee payable via an app, ensuring convenient access to amenities such as clean washrooms, a café, and a gift shop. Exploring the cliffs proved to be a captivating experience, offering a variety of trails and viewpoints that could easily occupy half a day or more. Despite the brisk October weather, we spent a good two hours wandering and capturing countless photos ops. It's worth noting that the site may close during periods of high winds, so keeping an eye on the weather forecast, so you are not disappointed, While we didn't make it all the way to the lighthouse, we thoroughly enjoyed the scenic walk, albeit encountering some muddy patches on alternative trails away from the main pathways. The terrain featured occasional steep hills (no more than about 5 mins), they should be manageable for most individuals. We'd recommend wearing lightweight hiker for added comfort and stability. Additionally, from certain vantage points along the cliffs, we were treated to impressive views of the bustling ferry terminal and the Dover Castle, adding to the allure of this already picturesque location.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 29 February 2024
- Ciara EMinnesota28 contributionsSuper cool, don't visit when rainingThis cliffs of Dover far exceeded my expectations. They were really close to the train station and make an easy day trip from London. The trail splits off and it can be a bit confusing as to what is a trail sometimes, but its still well worth it. We visited when it is raining and I would recommend avoiding doing so as it was very slippery and we were at the mercy of thorned plants to keep us from falling into the mud. Nevertheless, the cliffs themselves were stunning and for how easy it was to get there it was definitely worth the visit.Visited March 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 23 April 2024
- Yến H16 contributionsWorth visitingThe view is second to none. We reached Dover at around 12pm by coach. Luckily, the weather was perfect, not too hot and light rain. We took a lot of photos and had a good hiking tripVisited May 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 27 May 2024
- BookthiefjLondon, United Kingdom92 contributionsStunning landscapeToo beautiful !!! Not sure if it would be useful for anyone, but my mobile phone switched to france time zone a few kms in to our hike. So we mistook time and returned early. I really want to return and finish this trek.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 7 June 2024
- Snowie SVechelde, Germany68 contributionsChalk Wonders of Dover: A Short Visit, Lasting ImpressionsOn June 22, 2024, my husband and I began our adventure through Scotland and Ireland, with our first stop at the chalk cliffs of Dover in the United Kingdom. Until now, we had only seen the chalk cliffs of Dover from a distance on the deck of a ferry, but unfortunately, we had never had the chance to see them from such a close perspective. This time, having extra time due to an earlier ferry and beautiful weather, we decided to explore these cliffs with our own eyes. Upon arrival, we parked our car above the castle in a multi-level parking area (parking cost 5 pounds). We opted for a short walk along Langdon Cliffs. The cliff trail offered spectacular views of the English Channel and was perfectly prepared for walkers. Despite the limited time, walking along the cliff was an unforgettable experience. We were captivated by the intense greenery and rich vegetation, including blooming sage, which attracted our gaze just as much as the incoming and outgoing ships. Langdon Cliffs is the perfect place for a short visit to nature, even if you have little time. I highly recommend it to all nature lovers and those who appreciate beautiful views! Location: The White Cliffs of Dover, Langdon Cliffs, Upper Road, Dover, Kent, CT16 1HJVisited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 25 June 2024
- Darren DTexas812 contributionsBeautiful from land and seaWe saw the beautiful cliffs from both land and sea. We had one day in Dover, and we chose to spend a lot of it in nearby Canterbury. Because the day was sunny and clear, we could see France across the English Channel. If we had more time, we would have walked the top of the cliffs and St. Margaret's Bay. Beautiful sight.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 29 June 2024
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weekendtrekkers
Singapore, null, Singapore7 contributions
Mar 2020
An unexpected but very nice finale to my tour of UK, walking so closely on the edge along the cliff was one of the top highlights. If it's China or SG, I am quite sure that it will be fenced up for safety reasons. The views are breathtaking and there are a couple of trails (one can even bring you very close to the shore!). Having said that, exercise care. Do not get distracted by taking photos without knowing the potential danger behind you (edge of the cliff).
From the trailhead, hike 20 minutes to the white cliffs and 1 hour to the Lighthouse, faster if you are a regular hiker. Trust me, you don't just want to head directly towards the lighthouse or order that drink at the cafe. Take time to walk, sit down by the white cliffs to absorb everything from the view of the channel to France (if its a clear day), picturesque cliffs and the deep turquoise waters. I have a feeling that I will be back again for more!
From the trailhead, hike 20 minutes to the white cliffs and 1 hour to the Lighthouse, faster if you are a regular hiker. Trust me, you don't just want to head directly towards the lighthouse or order that drink at the cafe. Take time to walk, sit down by the white cliffs to absorb everything from the view of the channel to France (if its a clear day), picturesque cliffs and the deep turquoise waters. I have a feeling that I will be back again for more!
Written 9 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jamie Wareing
Isle of Wight, UK17 contributions
Oct 2020 • Friends
We parked at St Margaret's at Cliffe and walked over lighthouse down to Dover Castle and back. Excellent walk despite the rain. Lovely views. It took the three of us roughly 2hrs each way this included a couple of photo stops only so allow more time if you were planning to stop for a picnic or refreshments etc.
Parts of the walk were quite wet underfoot and we did see people in rather impractical shoes - this is most definitly a country walk over natural terrain and not a paved walk.
Parts of the walk were quite wet underfoot and we did see people in rather impractical shoes - this is most definitly a country walk over natural terrain and not a paved walk.
Written 19 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarny
Bexleyheath, UK982 contributions
July 2020 • Family
This cliff walk was one I'd been meaning yo do for a while. We arrived about an hour and a half before the car park was due to close and paid for parking by phone costing £5.50. I wish we'd had longer and could have gone further so do intend to return. Some paths are so scary and near the cliff edge so we moved to more inland paths - they are clearly marked out in colour code. The day we went it was incredibly windy which didn't help my nerves! The views are absolutely breathtaking and I will be back.
Written 16 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan S
Birmingham, UK45 contributions
June 2021 • Couples
Paid £5 to park all day although was about 12.30 when we arrived but good price for all day parking. We were parked looking towards the ferry terminal and sat and watched mesmerised for about 30-45 minutes watching the speed the ferries came and went! Weather was perfect with lovely blue skies. Walked up to the National trust cafe and had a drink and piece of cake then decided to walk to the lighthouse and back which was estimated to be about a 50 mins walk each way. It probably took us a bit longer as I have a problem with a knee so took it easy. It’s quite up and down in places so if not good mobility wise would be a difficult walk but I really enjoyed the walk to such an iconic British landmark. Well worth the visit if visiting Kent.
Written 22 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
YeeshRose
London, UK139 contributions
June 2021 • Friends
First of all use google maps to get to to the car park because Waze took us to the middle of the road somewhere. We arrived at 9:30am from London and parking was £5 which was fine. There are a few trails to walk but the scenery was ammmaaaazzziinnnggg whichever path you choose. Can’t believe I haven’t been here before. It was VERY foggy at that time of morning and some bits were slippery but the sun came out later in the day which was fine. I wish we walked all the way to the tower but my friend got scared that he couldn’t see the road ahead with all the fog *rolls eyes*. The place is very clean and staff were lovely. Even people you walk past on your walk will greet you. I will definitely be coming back to this scenic place and I highly recommend it just to get out the loud and polluted London for a few hours!
Written 4 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
138Paul138
Canterbury, UK1,375 contributions
Aug 2020 • Friends
Accessed via Upper Road you pay £5 for parking at a small hut and drive on to the parking area. There are various parking areas with plenty for disabled visitors. Large cafe and info centre with seating outside. Due to Covid the cafe was offering take away service only. Toilets were open. At the start of the walk is a large info board showing different routes. The paths are ok but become narrow in places and there are some steps to negotiate. It can get muddy in places. Once up on the higher ground the views are fabulous. On a clear day you can easily see the french coastline. You can look down on the Port of Dover and see the ferries coming and going. There are numerous paths but generally they all lead towards the South Foreland Lighthouse. If you have children be aware there are places were the cliff edge is not protected by a fence. The lighthouse also has a cafe and facilities. Overall a lovely walk with great views.
Written 29 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
M3inMT
Bozeman, MT34 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
Best to be avoided. The "Visitors Center" at the top of the cliffs, just as you begin the walk out from the parking lot, is actually a cafe. We took the train from London for the day, hoping to see a center which provided an historical overview of the cliffs and their importance during WWII - nothing! Plus, since you're walking on top of the cliffs, its difficult to appreciate their beauty and to get a good view of their majesty. The walk to the beginning of the cliff walk from the Dover Priory train station takes about 30" and you walk through an industrial town and past a busy, noisy port - there is nothing to recommend this. We did note a small boat which carried about 5 passengers cruising around the base of the cliffs, which must have provided an awesome view, but we didn't see any place to hire a boat to do this. Perhaps it was from the cruise ship docked at the port. Anyhow, deeply disappointing...
Written 29 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Natalie
Melbourne, Australia82 contributions
Feb 2024 • Friends
Birling Gap&the Seven Sisters 白崖是伦敦周边英国最著名的景点之一了,伦敦一天来回就足够玩啦,相比去布莱顿,去eastbourne会更方便一些。
超全火车出行攻略:
①Take the train from London Victoria Station to Eastbourne Train Station, with ticket prices usually around £20. It's a 1 hour and 30-minute journey one way. Plan your time and buy a return ticket in advance, and make sure to pick up your ticket at the station early. This station is closer to the white cliffs than Brighton, but there are fewer trains available. For students, you can try buying a railcard on Trainpal and use the code RC777E to get a 20% discount—it's a more budget-friendly way for students to buy tickets!
②出站后 google maps 导航 EastbourneSightseeing,10min左右就到达观光车上车点。乘坐13X观光巴士到Birling Gap站(不一定是绿色的),司机看我们都是学生直接给了学生票,一个人才1镑的single票,可以直接刷卡付。全程30min左右,路上可以一边留意google maps的到站路线和情况,建议坐二层可以看到更多超级好看的风景。
③下站之后可以跟着人群上山就到了很多热门的机位啦,天气好的时候都很出片,也可以下沙滩晒晒太阳
超全火车出行攻略:
①Take the train from London Victoria Station to Eastbourne Train Station, with ticket prices usually around £20. It's a 1 hour and 30-minute journey one way. Plan your time and buy a return ticket in advance, and make sure to pick up your ticket at the station early. This station is closer to the white cliffs than Brighton, but there are fewer trains available. For students, you can try buying a railcard on Trainpal and use the code RC777E to get a 20% discount—it's a more budget-friendly way for students to buy tickets!
②出站后 google maps 导航 EastbourneSightseeing,10min左右就到达观光车上车点。乘坐13X观光巴士到Birling Gap站(不一定是绿色的),司机看我们都是学生直接给了学生票,一个人才1镑的single票,可以直接刷卡付。全程30min左右,路上可以一边留意google maps的到站路线和情况,建议坐二层可以看到更多超级好看的风景。
③下站之后可以跟着人群上山就到了很多热门的机位啦,天气好的时候都很出片,也可以下沙滩晒晒太阳
Written 15 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Meme R
Kenilworth, UK280 contributions
Sept 2020 • Friends
Amazing views. We were very lucky as a sunny clear day in september.
Car park £5 but if national trust member is free. Plenty room to park. Wider open spaces make it covid safe to walk
Little cafe and shop.
It is very easy to get lost here and walk for hours as paths everywhere at different levels
Wild ponies roaming
Good view of the port which was noted given covid to be very quiet
Would recommend just remember to have good walking shoes and take some water.
Car park £5 but if national trust member is free. Plenty room to park. Wider open spaces make it covid safe to walk
Little cafe and shop.
It is very easy to get lost here and walk for hours as paths everywhere at different levels
Wild ponies roaming
Good view of the port which was noted given covid to be very quiet
Would recommend just remember to have good walking shoes and take some water.
Written 20 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Neil T
Lewes, UK73 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
It's hard to live in England and not visit the White Cliffs, but I had managed for 65 years. The site is well laid out, the cafe is good and the views are superb - however, if you actually want to see the cliffs, this isn't necessarily the best place to go unless you're prepared to walk a bit. But there are plenty of paths, so you can vary the walk out and back and there is always something going on in the docks to entertain you.
Written 11 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi
I have difficulty walking. Can not walk more than 10 minutes. I want to see the white cliffs. can you suggest a car parking within 10 minutes walking?
Thanks
Written 17 July 2023
The official car park is about ten minutes walk to the path, and I think you can see some views of the cliffs, but the main path is a very tough walk , I had to stop sit down and rest and twenty five minutes, my friend went on and got great views nearer the light house but I couldn’t possibly make it . To be fair your best bet is a boat trip probably if it’s possible to get one . With only ten minutes walking you may see something but it won’t be the best views .
Written 17 July 2023
What Boat tour did you do to see the White Cliffs, I'm having a hard time finding options (except sarafi). idk if its because we're going in October?
Written 24 September 2021
Hi. Sorry but we've never done a boat trip to see the Ehite Cliffs. We parked at the NT's car [ark and walked across the top of them. There might be some trips from either Dover or Folkestone but you would need to ask at their visitor information centres. Sorry can't be more helpfulu.
Written 25 September 2021
My husband is in a wheelchair and we would like to go and watch the boats leaving the harbour from the car. How do l drive to see this and what sign should l follow?
Written 11 September 2020
There is another option to see the harbour- Dover Castle. There is a fee to enter the castle but you can see the harbour from there.
Hope you two have a safe and happy trip!
Written 16 September 2020
We are travelling to Dover in late March 2020.
Is there a lunch or dinner cruise to see the White Cliffs of Dover from the ocean? If not, would the ferry between Dover and Calais provide viewing the cliffs from afar?
Is Dover or Brighton the best place to view the the White Cliffs of Dover on foot, from beach?
Thanks
Written 12 January 2020
Hi
You cant see the white cliffs of Dover from anywhere but Dover district. best from Dover promenade with a walk along the new pier. Also from St Margarets where there is Ian Flemings House but read the moonraker book first for full appreciation.
Dover sea front has a great Hotel and great fish and chips at Wheelers. Factory shop behind for shopping after.
Written 14 January 2020
Dalla stazione marittima di dover come si fa a raggiungere la strada che conduce alle scogliere?
Written 22 August 2019
Dalla stazione marittima di dover come si fa a raggiungere la strada che conduce alle scogliere?
Written 22 August 2019
Noi abbiamo fatto tutto a piedi, arrivando con l'autobus.
Written 23 August 2019
Is there a walk that’s not too strenuous along the cliff edge? Say 40 minutes each way or so.
Written 18 August 2019
yes. My mum has a broken leg and was able to walk up a path to the top, it took about half hour each way using her crutches. There was a slight incline but she managed it well both up and down and could have probably have gone a bit further had we had time.
Written 18 August 2019
Is it possible to hire a taxi for brief trip to the cliffs to explore on our own?
We are staying one day in Dover after debarking a cruise, and then heading to London.
Thank you.
Written 9 May 2019
Hi AJMF! Absolutely you can hire a taxi- but for your day trip to Dover, make the short hike from the Ferry area to the top of the cliffs! The hike up is not too strenuous and it’s beautiful! That’s also where you run into the wild ponies!! Enjoy your trip!!
Written 13 May 2019
Is there any boat tour to see the Cliffs from the sea during the weekdays? The Dover Sea Safari only offers bookings for weekends?
Written 17 February 2019
Hi! I'm sorry but I don't know because I've only walked on the cliff :/
Written 29 May 2019
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