The White Cliffs of Dover

About half a million years ago, at the end of the last ice age when Britain became an Island the White Cliffs of Dover were formed. They extend for 10 miles in either direction from Dover town and are 250m deep in certain places. They took 80 million years to form and are made up of tiny crustaceans and other sea life. The White Cliffs of Dover are both a Designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and National Trust Land. They house a mixture of rare and complex species of birds, flora and fauna and are of particular interest to geologists.

When visiting the White Cliffs of Dover a visit to the 'Gateway to the White Cliffs' visitor centre provides lively displays and gives outstanding views of the Cliffs. From April to October there are guided tours along the Cliffs or there are always public footpaths, which are easy to follow and free. Exploring the surrounding area one can see the South Foreland Lighthouse, the place where the first ever shore-to-ship radio transmission was made. If you prefer to see the Cliffs from the sea there are boats tours that run hourly and children are invited to steer the boat.