ST MARGARETS BAY, ENGLAND

Description: Spend 3 restorative days trekking along the White Cliffs of Dover, followed by ultimate relaxation, in the beautiful town of St Margarets Bay. Escape from London and enjoy the stunning views, cozy vibes, and wonderful food and drink that this lovely seaside town has to offer.

Destinations:

Day 1 - St. Margarets Bay

Day 2 - White Cliffs of Dover

Day 3 - Dover Castle or Deal

Where to stay: Calais View Garden Apartments. We booked through Airbnb, but you can book through their website as well. The flat offers a built-in sauna, some basic breakfast supplies, and absolutely stunning views of the ocean.

When to go: We visited in late May, and we recommend visiting in the summer or shoulder seasons. Be prepared for rain, and bring layers in all seasons.

THE ITINERARY:

THE DETAILS:

DAY 1

St. Margarets Bay

A quick 2hr train ride from London St. Pancreas, St. Margarets Bay is the perfect weekend getaway if you're looking to relax in nature. We did this exact itinerary without a car, mainly on foot, but using the bus and Uber as well. That said, the area is quite spread out. Many of the eating options around are very good and high quality, but they are limited. So, if you are a picky eater, it's smart to stock up on groceries and plan to cook some of your own meals this weekend.

1. Arriving to Dover Priory Train Station, take an Uber or the 80 bus towards Deal to St. Margaret's Bay (~15 min. drive).

2. Stop at The Village Shop, to stock up on wine, snacks and any potential groceries, before walking to your holiday flat by the sea.

3. Once settled and unpacked, hike out along the cliffs to the lighthouse (~25 mins one way) for sweeping views of crashing waves and the infamous white cliffs.

4. End your hike down at St. Margarets Beach.

5. For a pint, or two or three... stop by the Coastguard Pub. You can eat here (but save room for tomorrow's Sunday Roast), or whip up some dinner back at the flat. Another quick takeaway option is the FirstLight Bar and Cafe offers delish all-day lunch and breakfast specials and is just down the road.

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DAY 2

White Cliffs of Dover

1. Whip up some eggs, coffee, toast and jam to kick start your day — ingredients come in a complimentary breakfast basket from your thoughtful hosts.

2. Hike to the White Cliffs of Dover National Trust (viewing point). The hike is 2.9 miles and takes about an hour. The route is entirely along the coast, and is completely worth the effort!

3. Enjoy afternoon tea at the coffee shop, complete with scones, clotted cream & jam.

4. Now turn around, and hike back! (You can also call an Uber).

5. Once back in St. Margarets Bay, leverage that incredible indoor sauna, for some soothing relaxation moments.

6. If it's Sunday, enjoy a lovely Sunday Roast at the Coastguard Pub. Try to get there around 5pm, as the best items sell out quickly.

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DAY 3

Dover Castle

If traveling on a holiday to Dover Castle, it's a good idea to book your tickets in advance here.

For an alternative option to Dover Castle, explore the town of Deal. Only a 30 minute ride by bus from your flat, Deal is cute and artsy, with shopping, a pier and restaurants. A proper english seaside village that makes for a great day trip, and requires less walking.

1. After a lie in (you're on holiday, after-all) head over to the The Pines Garden Tea Room and Museum, for a mouthwatering spread of tea-time goodies and treats.

2. Once fed, you can actually walk to Dover Castle all the way from St. Margaret's Bay along the coastal trail. Other options are to take the 80 bus to Dover, then walk to the castle, or use Uber. Dover Castle is a 12th century monolith of a castle. A well-preserved medieval landmark with beautiful grounds and interesting exhibits. Evidence of pre-Roman era ruins still exist today on the castle grounds, which historians believe date all the way back to the 6th century BCE.

3. After wandering around the castle grounds, head to lunch at Aspendos Dover for a fantastic Turkish feast.

4. Head back to St. Margarets bay on the #80 bus, or call an Uber.

5. Relax by the beach in the afternoon before catching your train back to reality.