Dover to Deal Coastal Walk
View of St Margaret’s at Cliffe
With summer sun finally arriving in England, and a bit of a hangover, I opted for an easy coastal day walk this past Sunday. From Dover to Deal is a little over 10 miles, or 17 kilometers, along the Saxon Shore Way. Unlike last weekend’s walk on the Tisbury Circular, I took a chance not printing directions or a map, as the path appeared relatively straightforward on the Saturday Walkers Club website, and it definitely was.
From St Pancras International I took a Southeastern train to Dover, and from the station walked through town and towards the coast. I knew the path began somewhere in between the castle cliffs and Dover port, and sure enough there were signs leading to the coast path. From here to Deal, it’s pretty impossible to get lost or off course as the path is both well marked and well used.
Port of Dover and Dover Castle
Starting out in Dover, not going to lie, I didn’t have high expectations of the day. I’ve briefly been through Dover before, and despite its immense history, the Channel tunnel has done no favors to the ambience. While the town was eerily empty the trail started out crowded, and though I only had to cross traffic, the car jams nevertheless put me in a foul mood. This all being said, after walking by Langdon Bay less than a mile in, the trail empties and the views open for a really wonderful coast walk.
Dover Castle overlooking the English Channel
White Cliffs of Dover
Langdon Hole
Walking northeast from Dover towards South Foreland Lighthouse
There was a bustling yet quaint cafe in the South Foreland Lighthouse that would be perfect for tea or lunch. Unfortunately I didn’t take any photos, but there is both plenty of indoor and outdoor seating (and toilets!).
Walking northeast towards Deal
Just before St Margaret’s at Cliffe
St Margaret’s Bay was a very unexpected oasis and would love to come back for swimming. I did stop at a pub on the bay, and again, great indoor and outdoor seating depending on the weather.
St Margaret’s Bay
Sunners and Fishers – no clue what these buildings were, but would love to rent!
Oldstairs Bay
Kingsdown International Camping Centre – for future reference!
Kingsdown beach
Houses on Wellington Parade
Zetland Arms – Shepherd Neame
Miles of pebble beaches
Approaching Deal
I was fairly eager to get back to London at a descent time once arriving in Deal, but the town was definitely lively and inviting. If I were to return though, would probably make my way towards Oldstairs Bay and the campground.
