Dover Marina © White Cliffs Country
Castle . A recurring theme is the Cinque Ports , and Walmer Castle is no different – as it ’ s the residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports . Previous holders of this post include the namesake of the Wellington boot , Arthur Wellesley , 1st Duke of Wellington , and more recently Winston Churchill and the Queen Mother . Steeped in history as varied as the wondrous gardens themselves , the castle is worthy of a visit even if it ’ s just to brush up on your national history !
Just a 5 minute drive from the castle is the Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club , a prestigious downland course on the White Cliffs . Designed by Scottish golfer James Braid , year-round golf is possible because of the chalk foundations , and with views of either the sea or the Garden of England countryside ( and possibly France too ), the course is a splendid afternoon ’ s choice . The 6,471 yards make for a challenge for all abilities , with the club priding itself on its inclusive identity , with ‘ a deep-seated community-spirit and friendly , family atmosphere ’.
As this discovery journey along from Sandwich is quickly turning into a coastal escape , it would be coarse to not include one of England ’ s most famous gateways to England – Dover . The town includes English landmarks Dover Castle and its wartime tunnels to the White Cliffs , so if you ’ ve just passed through you need to make a stop at this jewel in Kent ’ s crown .
Standing tall and proud is the iconic castle , which has had fortifications to protect the country for thousands of years at the closest point to France in England , and in turn has been at the forefront of defence for nine centuries . Stories from the castle are vivid and extensive from a Roman lighthouse and dramatic medieval interiors , right up to secret tunnels that were used in WW2 . You can even relive some of this history as the castle holds plenty of interactive days !
Dover doesn ’ t stop at the castle , however . In the town itself , just down the hill is The White Horse Inn , a Visit Kent award-winning pub that serves all the hearty food needed in winter to the light classics for summertime . Continuing further past the chains of Victorian townhouses is the brand new port area with a new pier out to sea , to admire the cruise ships and ferries sailing to France , which makes a fine mark to the end of your time exploring the local coastline of White Cliffs Country .
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