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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