Britain’s coastline is brimming with gems – some more popular than others. And this lesser-known seaside town sits in the shadows of its more well-known sibling.
Situated on the quaint Kent headland, Dungeness has recently rated by Time Out as one of Britain’s “quirkiest” seaside towns. Little surprise, given it offers one of Britain’s truly most unique landscapes. Known as the UK’s only desert, the town looks like it’s been taken straight out of a Western flick. Stretches of dusky sand are populated by distinct concrete sound mirrors, while lone wooden houses sit among the shrubbery like old saloons.
Even better, it lies just 20 miles from the more famous Folkstone, which is beloved for its bustling arts scene and independent cafes and restaurants. This makes it the perfect day trip if you’re planning a stay in its more popular neighbour.
Time Out described Dungeness as having an “apocalyptic” feel, and said: “There’s a vague apocalyptic feel about Dungeness, a little fishing town at the southernmost point of Kent. Its wild landscape of stark, shingle desert headland is overlooked by the imposing Dungeness Nuclear Power Station.”
Of course, don’t be put off by this dark description. While the village undoubtedly contains an otherworldly atmosphere, this is offset by its lighthouses and copious colourful fishing boats resting by the shore.
If you’re a nature enthusiast, there are also plenty of activities to get up to. Time Out recommends taking the time to try bird watching, as the area is known to attract a wide variety of bird species. Venturing out to the village in spring, you are likely to spot swallows, swifts and martins. If you’re lucky, you may even hear the distinctive call of the Cuckoo bird.
Aside from bird-spotting, one of the town’s most famous attractions includes the Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway (RHDR). One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: “The RHDR is always a great visit. Even if the weather isn’t clement, you are dry in the trains. In the sunshine it is lovely.” They added: “It is worth going all the way to Dungeness. There is the restaurant at the end of the line, a RHDR shop, a pub a short distance away, a lighthouse to visit and walks across the shingle, the UK’s only desert.”
If you’re looking to jump in the water, Dungeness also possesses a shingle beach for visitors to explore. The coast holds a stark, ethereal beauty, making it a unique experience – even for those who have already seen much of the UK.
Even better, foodies will be delighted to know that there is a fantastic fish n’ chip shop in the vicinity. Snack Shack serves freshly-caught cod, allowing you to drink in the rugged landscape on a full stomach.
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