Summer dreaming...

Skylarks and swallows over the fields, cobalt-blue skies against white chalk cliffs, bustling beach-hut cafes, the thrill of the the first sea swim, paddleboards and kayaks, drinks and food al fresco, outdoor concerts, regattas, markets and festivals... Welcome to summer in White Cliffs Country.

Welcome to a wonderful place to spend time in the summer months! At just over an hour by highspeed train from London and easily accessible by road, the Dover, Deal and Sandwich area is a great location to experience the English seaside in all its glory. There's a wealth of activities, experiences, events and attractions to keep everyone happy and entertained:

  • take an exhilarating RIB ride with Dover Sea Safari or Wetwheels from Dover Harbour to see the White Cliffs from the sea, or join a trip along the River Stour with the River Runner from Sandwich Quay
  • browse the lovely local town-centre markets and the great range of independent shops (click the boxes below to find out more)

Get a taste of local life

  • Marvellous markets

    Including vibrant town markets, charming antiques markets and brilliant bootfairs.

    A bustling street market in the summer sunshine

  • Food shops

    You'll find a fantastic range of food and drink purveyors in White Cliffs Country selling the best of local Kentish produce.

    A delicatessen with colourful window displays and blue painted facade.
  • walk along Deal Pier and stop for a drink or meal at the superbly appointed Deal Pier Kitchen or/and stroll along Dover seafront to the pier for great views of the seafront and cliffs, then to the Marina Curve for coffee at the Pedaler on the Port or one of the popular street food stalls here
  • enjoy lazy beach days and rock-pooling at the foot of the white cliffs at St Margaret's Bay (please check the tides first)
An aerial view of Dover seafront with stalls and crowds of people, the castle in the distance
Dover Regatta will be taking place on 12 and 13 July 2025
  • soak up the atmosphere of our fabulous free festivals, fairs, concerts, carnivals and regattas (see What's On)
  • discover our rich heritage in awe-inspiring castles, forts and an amazing selection of museums, plus re-enactments bringing history to life
  • explore the coast and countryside by following one of the many great walking or cycling trails, catering for all abilities and interests

Explore more...

  • Explore our castles and forts

    Discover three magnificent coastal castles, and as many forts, chronicling thousands of years of fascinating history.

    Dover Castle from a distance in the early morning light with a pink sky and greenery in the foreground.

  • Walking and Cycling

    Boost your health and fitness in the great outdoors, breathe fresh coastal air and experience the peace and harmony of the natural environment

    Three walkers carrying rucksacks walking along the cliff edge with blue sea and blue sky in the background.
A clifftop path with a glimpse of the white cliffs in the distance, blue sea and blue sky.
Walk the England Coast Path for fabulous views of the coast and across to France on a clear day.
  • head to our fabulous nature reserves to immerse yourself in the natural world - explore Samphire Hoe or Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory where you can escape into nature
  • meet the wildlife at Wingham Wildlife Park where there are also dinosaurs, a new reptile house and play park!

Browse the website for more information and ideas for things to do and places to visit. 

There is so much more than you can fit into one day - to plan a longer trip to the area, check out our Stay section to see the wide variety of lovely places to stay and browse Eat & drink for all the great cafes, bars, pubs and restaurants here.

Whatever you get up to this summer, have a great time.

 

Title image with kind permission of Chris Mansfield ©chrismansfieldphotos.com

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