Cycle Routes
The Cliffs and Castles Route
National Cycle Route 1 - From Dover to Deal
Come by sea or from the west into Dover, and the first thing you
see is the magnificent white cliffs. Spend some time savouring
Dover's rich maritime history as the Gateway to England:
Worth a visit:
However, before leaving Dover, you could take a dip in the sea
followed by a trip to one of the many pubs and cafes nearby.
National route 1 is well signed. Choose from
two routes from the seafront up the hill crowned by Dover Castle:
either push your bike up a cliffside path, or ride into the town
centre, then up north of the castle. The two routes, both steep,
meet up near the Langdon Cliffs.
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Map>>
Places to visit on the way:
-
Langdon Cliffs - the Gateway to the White Cliffs
-
South Foreland Lighthouse (off the route)
- St. Margaret's-at-Cliffe and St. Margaret's Bay. Go for
refreshments in one of the teashops or pubs in the High Street.
Take a detour to Dover Patrol Memorial and enjoy a cup of tea and
cream bun in the old Coastguard lookout, now converted into a cafe
with a magnificent view over the Channel to France or plunge down
the hill to the spectacular bay nestling among the cliffs and visit
the
Pines Garden
The route to Kingsdown follows an of-road track across open
downland with lovely views but it is unlit, so not to be
recommended at night.
At Kingsdown the route again leaves the road to follow a shared
path next to the wide peaceful shingle beach, colonised by rare
plants and with spectacular seashore views. You can stop off at
three fine pubs:
- The Zetland Arms on the sea-front - 01304 364888
- The Rising Sun on the route - 01304 373983
- The King's Head Upper Street - 01304 373915
In Walmer, the path passes the
Castle (home to the Duke Of Wellington) and Walmer Green, with
the Lifeboat House (to rescue ships wrecked on the infamous Goodwin
Sands), cafes and paddling pool - ride slowly and be especially
careful of pedestrians along this stretch.
The path reaches Deal near the spot where Julius Caesar landed
in 55BC.
At
Deal Castle, the route rejoins the road at a busy point TAKE
CARE, watch for traffic at junctions along the seafront road. Past
the
Timeball Tower is Deal Pier - park your bike and explore the
town.