Dover "Sandwich and Walmer Castle"

Today we arrived in Dover shrouded in a soft sea mist, giving the port a moody, atmospheric welcome. We joined a local tour heading out of town and into the Downs — not “down” as in direction, but from the old Saxon word for dunes. The mist disappeared and a bright sunny day opened, this unique landscape led us to the charming town of Sandwich. Once a thriving port, Sandwich is now a peaceful gem filled with medieval buildings, quiet lanes, and a sense of time standing still.

From there, we continued on to Walmer Castle. We were especially intrigued by the stories of the Duke of Wellington, who died there, and the Queen Mother, who used it as a seaside retreat. The gardens were immaculate, full of colour and calm, and we spent time walking the paths before climbing to the bastion to take in the view over the English Channel.

Returned to Dover to rejoin our ship, completely different weather the sea mist clouded the white cliffs and the winds had an English Channel chill.Read more