White Cliffs of Dover Tours

Dover which includes tranquil scenes, landscape views and rugged coastline
White Cliffs of Dover featuring rocky coastline, landscape views and a pebble beach
Dover which includes a pebble beach and landscape views
Dover showing mountains, landscape views and a sunset
White Cliffs of Dover showing landscape views and a pebble beach

See the historic and legendary gateway to England that defended the country in wartime. Today the cliffs greet home-comers arriving at the busy Dover port.

The dramatic and distinctive White Cliffs of Dover are a symbol of national pride for the English. Wander atop the immense white chalk cliffs to experience this historic and beautiful area at your own pace.

A walking track extends from the east side of Dover over the grassy cliff tops to South Foreland Lighthouse. The walk offers beautiful views of the dramatic landscape and the English Channel. Spot some of the birds, butterflies and wildflowers, including the unique pyramidal orchid, which can be found throughout the chalk grasslands. Visit the pebbly beaches of Langdon Bay and Crab Bay below and get a closer look at the soft white chalk flecked with flint and quartz. Descending the cliff face on steep stairways is not for the faint of heart. Visitors are instructed to keep well away from the cliff edge since some parts occasionally crumble into the sea.

The landscape is made even more dramatic by the area’s wartime history. The cliffs were a vital point of defense in both world wars. Still visible along the coast are the slit trenches dug by soldiers in the 1940s. Check the signposts along the way to the lighthouse and learn about the history and significance of the area.

Finish your cliff-top stroll at the South Foreland Lighthouse café. Relax with a pot of tea and a plate of fresh fruit scones with jam and cream. This walk is best enjoyed on a sunny, warm day, since winds on the cliffs can be quite strong and cold.

The White Cliffs walking trail spans approximately 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers) from the Dover town center to the lighthouse. For a shorter stroll, start your walk at the National Trust White Cliffs of Dover visitor center, located 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) from the lighthouse. Bring a bottle of water and some snacks to enjoy while you take in the breathtaking view that stretches across the sea to the French coastline on a clear day.

Plan a trip to see White Cliffs of Dover

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hilton Woking

Hilton Woking

4 out of 5
per person
Oct 1 - Oct 5
found 15 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
New York (NYC) to London (LGW)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (35 reviews)
Wish there are laundry facilities on site

Reviewed on Aug 1, 2025

Hilton London Gatwick Airport

Hilton London Gatwick Airport

4 out of 5
per person
Oct 1 - Oct 5
found 15 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
New York (NYC) to London (LGW)
9/10 Wonderful! (3,030 reviews)
Very nice hotel and proximity to South Terminal excellent - we had early flight (5:25) so had to be up and out for 3am - had a very very noisy family near so unfortunately had no sleep. The Japanese Steak restaurant on site was amazing - shame about the family who kept us up as this would have warranted 5 stars

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

Cave Hotel & Golf Resort

Cave Hotel & Golf Resort

4 out of 5
per person
Sep 4 - Sep 10
found 6 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
New York (JFK) to London (LGW)
9/10 Wonderful! (457 reviews)
Overall good stay, restaurant staff and cleaners were very polite and friendly. Very peaceful settings, easy parking. Loved the golfing range and price. Room was nice overall, modernised with electrical options for do not disturb, curtains, LED mirror, mattress and pillows were divine. Cleanliness (attention to detail) lacked at times, found a popped balloon under the seat upon check in, the drawers leather was peeling away and creaked whenever you opened or closed it, no toilet scrub brush, found hair in various places. Also, internet stopped working for like an hour one evening so couldn’t watch apps on tv. Pool and steam room area were well taken care of by cleaners, sweeping the water away and replacing towels etc. but the area itself is small, limited space to sit, in the pool there is only stairs to sit on other than 4 beds, jacuzzi bubbles very powerful so couldn’t have them on for long, under the stairs was quite rusty. Gym was small with limited facilities, but ok to go to in the morning when quiet. Forgot our sunglasses in the range area, they were not handed in to reception or the range staff unfortunately, so assumed to have been taken.

Reviewed on Jul 19, 2025

Popular places to visit

South Foreland Lighthouse showing a lighthouse and interior views

South Foreland Lighthouse

See the views from the top of this iconic lighthouse, the site of numerous scientific discoveries over the centuries.

South Foreland Lighthouse
⛅️🌊🇬🇧

St Margaret's Bay Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, St Margaret's Bay Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to St Margaret's at Cliffe. You can enjoy the restaurants while in the area.

St Margaret's Bay Beach
Dover Castle showing chateau or palace, general coastal views and heritage architecture

Dover Castle

Unparalleled views of the English Channel, secret wartime tunnels and the “Key to England” await discovery at this cliffside medieval castle.

Dover Castle
Dover Museum featuring interior views

Dover Museum

Learn about Dover’s long history as an essential port town throughout the millennia at this exciting, interactive museum that exhibits a real Bronze Age boat.

Dover Museum
Dover Beach which includes mountains, a sandy beach and a coastal town

Dover Beach

Watch the ferries come and go from the seafront esplanade on this scenic shingle beach, sheltered by the White Cliffs and wide harbor walls.

Dover Beach

National Trust Visitor Center

After visiting National Trust Visitor Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Dover. Stroll along the waterfront in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

National Trust Visitor Center

Best Lodging Options Near White Cliffs of Dover

Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

4 out of 5
Dover Waterfront, Waterloo Crescent, Dover, England
Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa
2 Bed Chalet, St Margaret's at Cliffe, South Coast

2 Bed Chalet, St Margaret's at Cliffe, South Coast

Dover
2 Bed Chalet, St Margaret's at Cliffe, South Coast
48 The Bay

48 The Bay

St Margarets at Cliffe,
48 The Bay
D&ashortbreaks-stmargaretsbay-parking

D&ashortbreaks-stmargaretsbay-parking

2 out of 5
Dover
D&ashortbreaks-stmargaretsbay-parking
The White Cliffs Hotel

The White Cliffs Hotel

3.5 out of 5
High Street, St. Margaret's-at-Cliffe, Dover, England
The White Cliffs Hotel
Holiday Inn Dover by IHG

Holiday Inn Dover by IHG

4 out of 5
Singledge Lane Whitfield, Kent, Dover, England
Holiday Inn Dover by IHG
See all 586 properties in White Cliffs of Dover
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near White Cliffs of Dover

The White Cliffs of Dover offer a range of activities for visitors, including breathtaking coastal walks and stunning views of the English Channel. Tourists can enjoy guided tours to learn about the area's rich history, explore nearby attractions, and take day trips to charming destinations like Brighton and Harwich. Don't miss the chance to experience the magnificent cliffs and the scenic beauty that surrounds this iconic landmark.

Food and drinks

For a taste of local charm, visit the Bush Pub for traditional fare and a cozy atmosphere. Alternatively, enjoy a meal at Margaret's at Cliffe, known for its delightful dishes and welcoming vibe, all while soaking in the stunning views of the White Cliffs.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience near the White Cliffs of Dover, visit Capel le Ferne Farmers Market, located 7 miles away, offering a charming local vibe. If you're up for a drive, Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, 15 miles away, features family-friendly shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

At Walmer and Kingsdown Golf Club, enjoy a scenic round of golf amidst lush landscapes, only 3 miles from the White Cliffs. Kearsney Abbey Gardens, 4 miles away, offers serene trails for relaxation. For a rejuvenating experience, visit Mercure Hythe Imperial Spa Naturel, located 13 miles away, for luxurious body treatments.

Adventure

Leas Promenade offers a scenic hiking trail 10 miles from the White Cliffs of Dover, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For a fun family outing, explore the Marsh Maize Maze located 17 miles away. North Downs Way - East, a thrilling hiking trail, is a mere 2 miles from the cliffs.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Astor Theatre, just 6 miles away, where culture and romance blend beautifully. For adventure, visit Broadstairs Leisure, 16 miles out, and enjoy family-friendly arcade fun. If you're feeling lucky, head to Genting Casino, 18 miles away, for a thrilling city vibe.

Find the best attractions near White Cliffs of Dover

The White Cliffs of Dover offer a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the iconic cliffs, relax on the beach, and enjoy the scenic views of the bay. Don't miss the historic Dover Castle and the surrounding nature reserves, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, the area has something for everyone.

  • Dover Castle: Experience the grandeur of Dover Castle, a magnificent fortress steeped in history. With stunning architecture and breathtaking views, the castle offers a romantic atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, making it a perfect spot for exploration and photography.
  • Dover Beach: Enjoy the relaxing vibes of Dover Beach, where you can stroll along the sandy shores, soak up the sun, or take a dip in the refreshing waters. It's an ideal place for a leisurely day by the sea, with beautiful views of the iconic cliffs.
  • Dover Harbour: Discover the picturesque scenery at Dover Harbour, a bustling port that combines stunning landscapes with beach vibes. Take a walk along the promenade, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and watch the boats as they come and go.

Best time to go to White Cliffs of Dover

Visitor numbers around White Cliffs of Dover is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit White Cliffs of Dover can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around White Cliffs of Dover falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around White Cliffs of Dover falls in January and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March45.5°F (7.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
April48.7°F (9.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for White Cliffs of Dover

To save money on your visit to the White Cliffs of Dover, plan your trip between November and January for lower accommodation rates. Explore free attractions like St Margaret's Bay Beach and Folkestone Harbour. Book your hotel about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Use their search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and consider package deals that combine flights and hotels for added savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also earn you exclusive discounts and cash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around White Cliffs of Dover are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around White Cliffs of Dover is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the White Cliffs of Dover with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.