St Margaret’s Bay

A mile along the clifftop trail from the South Foreland Lighthouse, you will reach the delightful village of St Margaret’s Bay, a gap in the chalk with a sun-trapping shingle beach. This is England's closest point to France and many a cross-Channel swimmer has stepped into the briny waves here.

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.

Must-see attractions

Explore all