Day 3: Dover Castle and CliffsToday we met our bus driver, Ian, and headed to Dover. Our first stop was the Dover port and white chalk cliffs. Dover is a major port just 21 miles from France across the channel. There were some nice walking paths that allowed us to get some nice views of both the cliffs and the port area. It was a little hazy out, but we could still make out France in the distance. That put some perspective on just how near these countries are to each other.
After that, we drove a short distance to Dover Castle where we spent the majority of our day. John gave us a quick walk through, and as soon as he finished, we jumped into line for the military tunnels tour to beat the rush. John suggested that we do this since that tour is a particularly popular attraction. The line was unusually short, however, so it was the perfect time to take it in. The tour included videos and a self-guided tour through the tunnels where the Brits led the evacuation of over 300,000 soldiers from Dunkirk during WWII. The castle has been a key defense spot throughout English history. One highlight on this stop was climbing up to the top of the highest tower and seeing the views. It was pretty spectacular. When we got back to Canterbury, we walked along the city wall, grabbed a bite to eat and then took in Evensong at the Canterbury Cathedral. It was a full service highlighted with a boy’s choir and clergy in training. It was a beautiful evening, and the city had a noticeable energy is in the air. It was Saturday night after all! |
Highlights of the DayViews From The Top
We were treated to some beautiful and grand views today. The first was the view of the white chalk cliffs of Dover. Standing above and looking at them felt like viewing a postcard. The views from atop Dover Castle was stunning as well. Not only did it put the castle into better perspective for us, but it also let us take in the beautiful country side around the fortification and get a sense for the bigger picture of the surrounding areas. |