White Cliffs of Dover

Dover showing general coastal views, rocky coastline and tranquil scenes
White Cliffs of Dover showing rocky coastline, a pebble beach and landscape views
Dover which includes landscape views and a pebble beach
Dover featuring rugged coastline, landscape views and a sunset
White Cliffs of Dover featuring landscape views and a pebble beach


See the historic and legendary gateway to England that defended the country in wartime. Today the cliffs greet home-comers arriving at the busy Dover port.

The dramatic and distinctive White Cliffs of Dover are a symbol of national pride for the English. Wander atop the immense white chalk cliffs to experience this historic and beautiful area at your own pace.

A walking track extends from the east side of Dover over the grassy cliff tops to South Foreland Lighthouse. The walk offers beautiful views of the dramatic landscape and the English Channel. Spot some of the birds, butterflies and wildflowers, including the unique pyramidal orchid, which can be found throughout the chalk grasslands. Visit the pebbly beaches of Langdon Bay and Crab Bay below and get a closer look at the soft white chalk flecked with flint and quartz. Descending the cliff face on steep stairways is not for the faint of heart. Visitors are instructed to keep well away from the cliff edge since some parts occasionally crumble into the sea.

The landscape is made even more dramatic by the area’s wartime history. The cliffs were a vital point of defence in both world wars. Still visible along the coast are the slit trenches dug by soldiers in the 1940s. Check the signposts along the way to the lighthouse and learn about the history and significance of the area.

Finish your cliff-top stroll at the South Foreland Lighthouse café. Relax with a pot of tea and a plate of fresh fruit scones with jam and cream. This walk is best enjoyed on a sunny, warm day, since winds on the cliffs can be quite strong and cold.

The White Cliffs walking trail spans approximately 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometres) from the Dover town centre to the lighthouse. For a shorter stroll, start your walk at the National Trust White Cliffs of Dover visitor centre, located 4 miles (6.4 kilometres) from the lighthouse. Bring a bottle of water and some snacks to enjoy while you take in the breathtaking view that stretches across the sea to the French coastline on a clear day.

Popular places to visit


Top White Cliffs of Dover Hotel Deals

Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

4 out of 5
Dover Waterfront, Waterloo Crescent, Dover, England
Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa
D&A short breaks

D&A short breaks

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St Margaret's Bay Caravan Park, Dover, England
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D&ashortbreaks-stmargaretsbay-parking

D&ashortbreaks-stmargaretsbay-parking

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Dover
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The White Cliffs Hotel

The White Cliffs Hotel

3.5 out of 5
High Street, St. Margaret's-at-Cliffe, Dover, England
The White Cliffs Hotel
Premier Inn Dover East

Premier Inn Dover East

2.5 out of 5
Jubilee Way, Guston Wood, Dover, England
Premier Inn Dover East
Premier Inn Dover Central

Premier Inn Dover Central

Marine Court, Marine Parade, Dover, ENG
Premier Inn Dover Central
Premier Inn Dover - Eastern Ferry Terminal

Premier Inn Dover - Eastern Ferry Terminal

2 out of 5
Marine Court, Marine Parade, Dover, England
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St Martin's Guest House

St Martin's Guest House

3 out of 5
17 Castle Hill Road, Dover, England
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Stylish 2Bd Family Hideaway In Dover

Stylish 2Bd Family Hideaway In Dover

2 out of 5
47 E Cliff, Dover, England
Stylish 2Bd Family Hideaway In Dover
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near White Cliffs of Dover

Explore the breathtaking beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover with a variety of day trips. Enjoy walking along the scenic coastal paths, taking in stunning views of the English Channel. Visit the historic Dover Castle for a glimpse into England's past, and don't miss the nearby South Foreland Lighthouse. For a more leisurely experience, consider a boat trip to admire the cliffs from the water, making for an unforgettable day out in this iconic location.

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is the Capel le Ferne Farmers Market, offering a delightful local experience just 11.3km away. If you're up for a drive, the Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, located 24.1km away, features a variety of shops and entertainment options for a more extensive shopping experience.

Recreation

Connaught Park, a tranquil recreational area 3.2km from the White Cliffs, offers serene walking paths and lush greenery for relaxation. The Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, located 12.9km away, provides a picturesque golfing experience amidst stunning landscapes, while Crabble Stadium, 4.8km away, hosts various sports events for enthusiasts.

Adventure

Embark on the North Downs Way for an invigorating hike amidst stunning landscapes a couple of miles from the cliffs. For a unique experience, ride the Leas Lift, offering breathtaking views, or explore the tranquil Reinden Wood, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking serenity.

Nightlife

The nightlife around the White Cliffs of Dover offers a delightful mix of experiences. Enjoy a romantic film at Cineworld Dover, immerse yourself in culture at Astor Theatre, or unleash your adventurous spirit at Family Amusements - Ramsgate Boulevard for a fun arcade experience.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near White Cliffs of Dover

The White Cliffs of Dover offer a delightful mix of attractions, including stunning beaches, the historic Dover Castle, and the scenic harbour. Visitors can immerse themselves in the area's rich culture while enjoying outdoor experiences along the iconic white cliffs. Must-see spots include the captivating views of the cliffs themselves and the nearby castle, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

  • Sandown Castle: Located 11.3km from the White Cliffs of Dover, Sandown Castle offers a romantic atmosphere steeped in cultural history. Explore the scenic ruins and enjoy stunning views of the coastline, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection.
  • Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory Trust: Situated 14.5km away, this attraction is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With its friendly staff and rich historical significance, you can learn about local wildlife and conservation while enjoying the serene surroundings.
  • Dover Beach: Just 3.2km from the cliffs, Dover Beach boasts a vibrant seaside vibe. Relax on the sandy shores, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, or enjoy water activities with breathtaking views of the iconic white cliffs.

Best time to go to White Cliffs of Dover

The best time to visit White Cliffs of Dover can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around White Cliffs of Dover falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around White Cliffs of Dover falls in January and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.5°F (7.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April48.7°F (9.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for White Cliffs of Dover

To save money on your visit to the White Cliffs of Dover, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower, and aim for a Tuesday stay, as Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare hotel rates and filter for eco-friendly options, ensuring you find the best deals. Look into package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for greater savings. Additionally, take advantage of free activities such as walking the scenic cliffs, and utilise the local bus services for affordable transport around Dover.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around White Cliffs of Dover are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around White Cliffs of Dover is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around White Cliffs of Dover is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel stay near the White Cliffs of Dover with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.