There is no sight more iconic in the United Kingdom than the White Cliffs of Dover. Standing as a sentinel of chalk against the blue of the English Channel, they have welcomed travelers for centuries. But for the modern visitor, getting to the best viewpoints isn’t always as simple as it looks on a map.
Whether you are arriving by train at Dover Priory, docking at the Cruise Terminal, or staying in a nearby town, Kent Taxis provides the most convenient way to experience this natural wonder. Here is everything you need to know about visiting the cliffs and why a professional taxi service makes all the difference.
1. The Gateway to the Cliffs: National Trust Visitor Centre
The main starting point for any cliff-top adventure is the National Trust Visitor Centre.
- The View: From here, you get an immediate panoramic view of the Port of Dover and the cliffs stretching toward the horizon.
- Facilities: There is a lovely café for a pre-walk coffee and a shop for souvenirs.
- Why take a taxi? The road leading to the visitor centre (Upper Road) is narrow, steep, and can be very busy. Parking at the site costs £5.00 for non-National Trust members and often fills up early. A taxi allows you to bypass the parking queues and get dropped off right at the entrance.
2. South Foreland Lighthouse
A pleasant 2-mile walk from the Visitor Centre brings you to the South Foreland Lighthouse. This Victorian masterpiece was the first to use an electric light and offers a glimpse into maritime history.
- Mrs. Knott’s Tea Room: After your walk, reward yourself with a traditional cream tea in this 1950s-themed tearoom located in the former lighthouse keeper’s cottage.
- Accessibility: For those with limited mobility, walking 2 miles across uneven chalk paths isn’t always possible. While cars are generally not allowed at the lighthouse, Kent Taxis can provide advice on the best drop-off points to ensure you see the sights without the strain.
3. Fan Bay Deep Shelter
Hidden beneath the cliffs is a secret world. The Fan Bay Deep Shelter is a network of tunnels built during WWII to protect the men who operated the gun batteries above.
- The Experience: You’ll put on a hard hat and head torch to explore the tunnels and see the sound mirrors used to detect incoming aircraft.
- Tip: Tours are popular and require a bit of timing. Taking a taxi ensures you arrive exactly when your tour starts, without worrying about the 45-minute walk from the main car park.
The “Kent Taxis” Advantage: Stress-Free Sightseeing
Many tourists assume they can just “walk from the train station” to the cliffs. While it’s possible, it’s a grueling uphill trek that takes over 40 minutes before you even reach the cliff-top paths!
1. Direct from Dover Priory Station
If you are coming from London on the high-speed train, you’ll arrive at Dover Priory. Instead of navigating local bus schedules that might not drop you close enough, a Kent Taxis driver will be waiting to take you the 5-minute drive directly to the National Trust site.
2. Cruise Passenger Specialists
Are you in Dover for just a few hours on a cruise? Don’t spend half your time waiting for shuttles. We provide prompt pickups from Dover Cruise Terminals 1 & 2, giving you more time to explore and ensuring you are back at the ship well before departure.
3. Safety on Narrow Roads
The roads around Dover Castle and the White Cliffs are famous for their “hairpin” bends and lack of footpaths in certain sections. Our local drivers navigate these daily and know exactly where it is safe to stop and drop off.
4. Group Travel
Traveling with the whole family? Our larger vehicles mean you can all travel together, sharing the cost and the excitement of seeing the cliffs for the first time.
Planning Your Visit
The White Cliffs are a “must-see,” but they are best enjoyed when you aren’t worried about car park tickets or uphill hikes. Let Kent Taxis take the wheel.
Book your trip to the White Cliffs of Dover:
- Phone: 01233367347
- WhatsApp: Message us here
- Email: info@kenttaxis.co.uk