DAYSOUT
St Margaret’ s
GUARDING THE GATEWAY
Take in the winter rays by enjoying this bracing walk along the cliff tops. It’ s the perfect walk for getting off the sofa and going outside into the fresh air. Looking out across the channel, it is hard to imagine that you would’ ve been just 20 miles away from Nazi invaders during the dark days of the Second World War. There is plenty to keep you occupied on this walk especially if you like military history – take a stroll around the Pine Gardens and spot the bronze statue of Winston Churchill, take a peek inside St Margaret’ s Museum and past the National Trusts South Foreland Lighthouse where Marconi conducted experiments in radio communication. This walk is a treasure trove of Kent’ s amazing history – now it’ s your turn to experience a slice of it for yourself!
Beginning your walk The walk is suited to most abilities – take care with younger children and dogs and keep away from the cliff edges. Like with all walks stick to the path, to avoid walking into unnecessary danger! There is one stile along the walk. Please wear strong footwear and dress for possible windy weather. Don’ t forget your camera or binoculars so you don’ t miss that glorious view of the channel from the cliff tops – on a clear day you may even be able to spot the coast of France!
Setting off Walking up from the car park at St Margaret’ s Bay you will pass the Coastguards Pub. You may like to take lunch here before beginning your walk or have a refreshing drink before setting off. On a cooler day it will be nice to wander into this friendly pub to warm up so be sure to drop in at some point during your day.
Starting your walk From the car park, walk past the Coastguard public house and back up Bay Hill. Bear left to follow the Saxon Shore Way signs along Beach Road past the popular Pines Gardens and St. Margaret’ s Museum.
The centrepiece of the Pines Gardens is a brooding statue of Winston Churchill – a reminder in bronze of Britain’ s darkest days when Nazi invaders were just 20 miles( 32km) away. The entrance to the St Margaret’ s Museum is dramatically guarded by two naval cannons.
The path then leads through Lighthouse Down and past the whitewashed South Foreland Lighthouse. The striking Victorian lighthouse is now conserved by the National Trust. The concrete remnants of cross-Channel gun positions affectionately known as Winnie and Pooh! The observation posts are still clearly visible in the undergrowth.
Once past the lighthouse, follow the track along Lighthouse Road towards the village of St Margaret’ s at Cliffe. Cross the main road and continue along The Droveway to pick up the footpath heading across fields towards the Free Down.
At the bottom of the valley, the route passes through the middle of the former gun position of a high velocity howitzer“ Bruce”.
Follow the path uphill again on to The Leas where the former Coastguard Station has been converted into a welcoming tearoom with excellent Channel views. Ship spotters are commonly seen here looking out to the channel to spot some of the many vessels passing through on a daily basis. This might also be a good place to stop off for some well-earned tea and cake!
Continue along the clifftops where the underground military defences are now securely barred to keep people out. This is a good place to look for the tracks and burrows of foxes, badgers and rabbits.
At the end of the walk, the shingle beach of St Margaret’ s Bay, toilet facilities, The Coastguard public house and car parking, are just a fiveminute downhill stroll.
Making more of your day A visit to St Margaret at Cliffe is of course not complete without taking the time to explore the unmissable Pines Garden – and that famous statue of Winston Churchill! St Margaret’ s museum is also well worth spending some time looking around and learning some interesting information about the local area – a wonderful way to while away an afternoon.
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