Getting more than a breath of fresh air

Eighteen East Kent members gathered at the rather undistinguished Dover station on a surprisingly bright February day for a 12 mile circular walk along the white cliffs between Folkestone and Dover. Within a few minutes we made the surprisingly steep ascent to the Western Heights which woke us all up and resulted in us pausing at the top to regain our breath and admire one of the best views of Dover and its imposing castle. A walk round the Napoleonic fortifications then led down and under the A20 in order to go up again across Shakespeare cliff.

Now on top of the cliffs, with France in view over the channel, we walked towards Capel-le-Ferne. The path was getting very close to the cliff edge and the wind edging towards the storm force that would arrive that evening – fortunately off of the sea so no-one got blown over the edge. It was a very enforced breath of fresh air, though.

The group photo was taken in front of the impressive sound mirror - built to listen for bombers coming across the channel, such dishes were superceded by radar.

After a pub stop some of us got the bus back and the remainder descended the path down the cliff to walk back to Dover along the shore, close to the dramatic waves.

Thanks to Robert for leading an exhilarating and memorable first walk.

David, with thanks to Darren and Gary for photos

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