Attractions and Places To See around St. Margarets - Top 20

St. Margaret's at Cliffe is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. You can visit St. Margaret's Bay Beach, a mix of sand, shingle, and pebbles, perfect for walking, fossil hunting, and rock pooling. The iconic White Cliffs of Dover are also prominently visible from the area, offering spectacular clifftop scenery. Inland, the surrounding countryside is part of the picturesque Kent Downs, featuring rolling green hills and wooded valleys.

Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore the South Foreland Lighthouse, a Victorian landmark and the first lighthouse to use electric light. The 12th-century St. Margaret of Antioch Parish Church is a Grade I listed building. Additionally, the Dover Patrol Monument commemorates naval heroism, and the unique St. Margaret's Windmill adds to the village's charm.

For cultural insights, visit The Pines Garden and The Pines Calyx, which features a statue of Sir Winston Churchill, a visitor center, and a tea room. The village also has literary connections, having been home to figures like Noël Coward and Ian Fleming. Don't miss The Coastguard Pub, reputed to be Britain's nearest pub to France, offering refreshments right on the beach.

Families can enjoy various activities. St. Margaret's Bay Beach is great for walks, rock pooling, and fossil hunting. Exploring the grounds of the South Foreland Lighthouse or the tranquil Pines Garden can also be enjoyable. For a historical walk, consider the Frontline Britain Trail, which offers insights into the area's wartime past.

The area offers several walking opportunities, particularly along the coast and within the Kent Downs. You can enjoy walks along the promenade at St. Margaret's Bay Beach or explore the clifftop paths offering views of the White Cliffs of Dover. The Frontline Britain Trail is a 4-mile circular route that combines history with scenic views.

St. Margaret's at Cliffe is beautiful year-round, but the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal for enjoying the beaches, coastal walks, and gardens. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities. However, the dramatic coastal scenery and historical sites can be appreciated in any season.

Yes, St. Margaret's at Cliffe has a rich history. It's known for its strategic location, serving as a starting point for Channel swimmers due to its proximity to France. During wartime, it was historically significant as 'Hell Fire Corner' due to continuous bombardment. The South Foreland Lighthouse was also the site of Marconi's first ship-to-shore radio transmission.

Several significant attractions are a short drive away. You can visit the magnificent Dover Castle, with its 2000 years of history and secret wartime tunnels. The world-renowned Canterbury Cathedral, about 17 miles away, offers exquisite architecture. For wildlife encounters, Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Safari Park are also within reasonable driving distance.

You have a few options for refreshments. Mrs. Knott's Tea Room is located at the South Foreland Lighthouse, offering cream teas. The Pines Garden and The Pines Calyx also feature a tea room with fresh, seasonal Kentish food. For a unique experience, The Coastguard Pub is right on St. Margaret's Bay Beach, offering food and drinks with views towards France.

Indeed, St. Margaret's at Cliffe has attracted notable literary figures. It was once home to playwright Noël Coward, and author Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond, lived in the area. His book Moonraker is largely based on the local surroundings, adding a touch of espionage history to the picturesque village.

The views from St. Margaret's at Cliffe are spectacular, primarily due to its coastal location. You'll enjoy panoramic vistas of the English Channel, often spotting ships and ferries. The dramatic White Cliffs of Dover provide an iconic backdrop, and from various points, you can even see the coast of France on a clear day. Inland, the Kent Downs offer rolling green landscapes.