What are the best walks in Deal, Kent?

Deal offers a variety of scenic walks, including the Dover to Deal coastal trail, the Kingsdown and Walmer Circular Walk, and the longer Deal to Folkestone route. Each walk highlights the area's coastline, castles, and countryside.

How long is the Dover to Deal walk?

The Dover to Deal walk covers approximately 10 miles (16 km) and takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours one way. It begins at Dover Priory railway station and ends at Deal railway station, with return options available by train or bus.

What can you see on the Dover to Deal coastal trail?

Highlights along the Dover to Deal route include the White Cliffs Visitor Centre, Dover Castle, the Dover Patrol Monument, Walmer Castle, and Deal Castle. The path offers panoramic sea views and passes through historic landmarks.

How difficult is the Dover to Deal trail?

The Dover to Deal walk is of moderate difficulty. It includes some hill climbs and uneven terrain but is well-marked and suitable for most walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.

What is the Kingsdown and Walmer Circular Walk?

The Kingsdown and Walmer Circular Walk is a 3.5 km loop that takes around 45 to 60 minutes to complete. It features coastal views, the Hawkshill Freedown memorial, wildflower meadows, and a section of the Saxon Shore Way.

Where does the Kingsdown and Walmer walk start?

The Kingsdown and Walmer Circular Walk starts at the car park off Kingsdown Road by the beach. From there, the route leads towards Walmer Castle before looping through Hawkshill Freedown and back along the Saxon Shore Way.

Is the Kingsdown and Walmer walk suitable for families?

Yes. The Kingsdown and Walmer Circular Walk is family-friendly and relatively easy, with gentle paths, sea views, and opportunities to stop at Walmer Castle or enjoy the beach nearby.

How long is the Deal to Folkestone coastal walk?

The Deal to Folkestone coastal walk is around 20 miles (32 km) and takes 1 to 2 days to complete. It follows a point-to-point route along the Kent coastline, with return options by train or bus.

What should I bring for walking in Deal?

Sturdy footwear is recommended, especially on muddy sections or during wet weather. Walkers should also bring water, snacks, weather-appropriate clothing, and a map or navigation app for longer routes.

Are Deal's walking routes accessible by public transport?

Yes. Both the Dover to Deal and Deal to Folkestone trails start and end near railway stations, making them easily accessible for visitors travelling by train from London or other parts of Kent.

Rochester Castle Guide

Welcome to our guide for Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle is one of England’s finest surviving Norman fortresses and a landmark of Kent’s historic Medway towns. Dominated by its towering stone keep, the castle overlooks the River Medway and has guarded this strategic crossing point for over 900 years.

Built shortly after the Norman Conquest, Rochester Castle played a crucial role in controlling access between London and the south-east of England. Today, it is a must-visit attraction for history lovers, families, and anyone exploring Rochester’s cathedral quarter and riverside

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Things to Do at Rochester Castle

Climb the Great Norman Keep

Explore one of England’s tallest surviving Norman keeps, with steep staircases, historic chambers, and panoramic views from the top.

Explore the Castle Grounds

Relax on the open green spaces surrounding the castle, ideal for picnics, photography, and views of the historic walls.

View of River Medway from Rochester Castle

Enjoy Views Over the River Medway

Take in sweeping views across the River Medway and Rochester Cathedral from the upper levels of the keep.

Visitor Information

Location

Castle Hill, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1SW

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Opening Hours

Daily 10:00 - 18:00 (summer) and 10:00 - 16:00 (winter). Grounds open during daylight hours.

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Tickets & Admission

Free for English Heritage members. Paid entry to the keep. Booking recommended during peak periods.

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Facilities

Picnic areas, benches, nearby toilets, cafés, and shops in Rochester High Street.

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Train Travel

Rochester Station is a 10-minute walk away. Direct trains from London Victoria and St Pancras.

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What to See at Rochester Castle

The Great Keep
Climb through multiple levels of the towering keep, exploring chambers, staircases, and viewing platforms that offer sweeping views of Rochester Cathedral and the River Medway.

Castle Grounds
The surrounding green space is ideal for picnics and relaxed exploration, with clear views of the castle’s defensive layout and curtain walls.

Historic Views
From the upper levels of the keep, visitors can see across the Medway crossings that made Rochester such a strategically important location for centuries.

Nearby Heritage
Rochester Castle sits next to Rochester Cathedral and close to the historic High Street, making it easy to combine multiple attractions in one visit.