St. Margaret’s-at-Cliffe & St. Margaret’s Bay

About

This beautiful hidden gem of White Cliffs Country has at its heart the picturesque seaside village of St. Margaret's-at-Cliffe and secluded cove at St. Margaret's Bay.

First appearing in the Domesday Book as "Sancta Margharita", St Margaret’s is an historical treasure trove. Experience “First Light” at the South Foreland Lighthouse – the first lighthouse to use electric light and the site of Marconi’s first ship-to-shore radio transmission. Visit later in the day to indulge in a delicious cream tea at Mrs Knott's Tea Room. Take in the ancient church of St. Margaret of Antioch, before following the valley down to the Bay and the Pines Visitor Centre and Museum. Opposite you’ll find the lovely Pines Garden, watched over by an impressive statue of Sir Winston Churchill. Enjoy fresh, seasonal Kentish food at the Tea Room, or continue onto the beach for refreshment at The Coastguard - Britain's nearest pub to France.

St Margaret’s has been home to some famous faces including Noel Coward and Ian Fleming.  Fleming’s book, Moonraker, is largely based in St Margaret’s and nearby Kingsdown.

The surrounding countryside is spectacular at all times of the year, offering an inspiring backdrop to a range of activities. Discover The Frontline Britain Trail, a 4 mile circular route on which you can learn about the role of St Margaret's during the Second World War. Roam along the deserted coastline and get off the beaten track amongst the rolling green hills of the Kent Downs, or take in the clifftop scenery and wooded valleys on two wheels. For a different experience, why not saddle up and follow the green lanes and tracks for a perfect hack through the countryside?