Kent's Heritage Coast

ITINERARY

Monday - Morning departure from Dorset we drive along the South Coast past Chichester and Brighton to stop in Lewes, the quirky ancient town overlooked by its castle. After time for lunch and sightseeing continue to our hotel near Ashford.

Tuesday - Morning to the historic Cinque Port of Hythe with its Victorian promenade and beautiful beachfront giving stunning views of the English Channel. Later we shall join a nostalgic journey on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway "Kent's Mainline in Miniature" - 2½ hours roundtrip to the unique shingle headland at Dungeness. Continuing into neighbouring East Sussex we shall call into the picturesque town of Rye, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings.

Wednesday - Head to the ancient city of Canterbury with its atmospheric old streets, medieval walls and stunning cathedral, now a World Heritage Site. A city where great stories are told from the bloody history of its religious sites to the mead-soaked tales from pioneering pilgrims. Later we make our way to the Cinque Port of Sandwich - the most complete medieval town in England, idyllic, rustic and a true hidden gem. A knowledgeable local guide will lead a short walking tour and regale us with stories, facts and history.

Thursday - Head to White Cliffs Country and discover 2000 years of history at Dover Castle. A defensive fortification since 800BC and playing a pivotal role in 2 World Wars it hosts lavish palace rooms, a WW2 hospital, the fire command post, massive battlements, museums, exhibitions and the secret wartime tunnels. Later we call into the National Memorial to the Few at Capel-le-Ferne, dedicated to the heroic and selfless deeds of the men who won the battle of Britain in 1940.

Friday - We head homewards, calling into Guildford where lunch can be sourced on the attractive High Street. Return to Dorset late that afternoon.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner