Dungeness walk

This is a walk of approximately 9-miles, over the unique landscape around Dungeness, and although totally flat, the stretches across the areas of deep shingle can be demanding, so it is most certainly a good workout. For guidance, a walk of so little ascent would normally be graded as leisurely, but this goes up a grade, so is classed as moderate, purely down to the steady plodding through the shingle. 

From our start point, we head off in the direction of the new lighthouse, as we follow the England Coast Path. Close by, is the Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway "End of Line Restaurant", which houses a Visitor Centre & toilets if needed.

Continuing on, our route passes to the left of the Nuclear Power Station, before a trudge through the shingle to reach the perimeter fence of the MOD owned Lydd Camp. Don't be alarmed therefore if you hear load bangs, as if the red flags are flying, it will be gunshot by the troops on exercise.

Next up, we enter RSPB Nature Reserve, so watch out for those in camouflage with big binoculars, after which, we cross the road to pass Hanson Hide. Then soon afterwards, the circuit crosses the old railway beside the Water Works, then it is more deep shingle, as we head back towards Lade & the coast. 

Turning right on the Coast Road, we continue back to Dungeness, where we will have a pit stop at the Pilot, before passing the Lifeboat Station. On the final leg of the circuit, look out for the distinctive Prospect Cottage, with its yellow painted windows, which is the former home of the late playwright Derek Jarman.

As always, there will be the usual short picnic lunch stop, as well as the above mentioned pub stop.

Walk leader is Steve Bourne