White Cliffs Of Dover- Kent
This accessible stroll takes you on a short journey along the famous White Cliffs of Dover, to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the ferry port, and with views to the majestic Dover Castle.
Details
Length: 0.2miles
Terrain: Chalk and pressed gravel
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
About
Starting on the top level car park, this route begins by passing through a kissing gate. These aren’t well known for being wheelchair accessible, but I was able to drive my large power chair straight into the centre of it, turn around, then exit the other side head first (there is also a small lip to watch out for). Once through, the path is mostly fine pressed gravel, and heads up the hill on a relatively steep (but doable) incline. It can be a little bit bumpy in places, but I didn’t find it uncomfortable. It only goes on for 0.2 miles, but at the top you get incredible views of the castle and the English Channel and the ferry port below.
Once the gravel path comes to an end, it continues as a trodden-grass walkway heading in the direction of the castle. I managed a bit of this in my wheelchair, but it was very bumpy and uneven with some steep cross-slopes and rabbit-holes to avoid, so I would only recommend continuing if you are confident you can manage and you like an adventure! It’s worth noting that if you do continue along the grass, there isn’t an accessible way down the other side, so you will have to go back the way you came.
This isn’t the official accessible route, but I found it doable (and very enjoyable!) in my power wheelchair so I just had to share. You can find information on the official accessible route below.
Points of Interest
Stunning views of Dover Castle (pictured).
Watch over the ferry port, seeing the variety of ferries coming and going.
The famous White Cliffs of Dover make up part of the Kent Downs Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Unusual insects and plants, such as the pyramidal orchid.
Alternative Easier Route
This route begins at the lower parking level and avoids the need to go through a kissing gate. It takes you on a slightly more gentle stroll along the clifftop and has multiple benches to rest at and enjoy the view.
From the car park to both viewpoints and back again it’s about 0.6 miles.
How To Get There
National Trust White Cliffs Of Dover Car Park, Guston, Dover, CT16 1HJ
Coordinates: 51.131456, 1.337513
These walking routes are located 2 miles east of Dover town centre, and directly above the ferry port. Leaving Dover on Castle Hill Road, turn right onto Upper Road and continue for 0.8 miles until you reach the tight ‘U’ bend with a sign welcoming you to the National Trusts White Cliffs of Dover. Exit right here and stop at the manned booth to pay for parking, then continue into the car park to find a space.
The car park is tiered and has 4 different levels, including about 20 designated accessible parking bays. If you want to access the cafe, toilets and shop it would be best to park on the lowest level, then drive in your car up to the top tier for the top walk (the car park is very steep, bumpy and has some extremely sharp/blind turns between levels).
Although you get spectacular views from any level of the car park, you’ll get the best views from the top!
Parking Prices At The Time Of Writing This (September 2020)
Free for National Trust members.
£5 for a car (non-members).
£7 for a motorhome (non-members).
Facilities
There is a visitors centre on the bottom level of the car park- this consists of a cafe, shop and toilets (including an accessible stall).
Picnic benches are dotted on each level of the car park.
Note: The car park opening times differ throughout the year, so check here before you visit.
