Sunday 27 January 2013

White Cliffs of Dover


                                     

Early on a Saturday morning, we rose to attempt the journey to the White Cliffs of Dover.  To our disappointment we were awaken by heavy rain drops, and no sunshine in sight.  But then again, it is England and one must take what you get.

We hopped on the tube to Victoria Coach station, grabbed a coffee and just made the cut off time for departure.  The bus drive was only two hours, perfect timing to wake up.

Once we arrived we decided to go to the castle. It was quite a steep walk up but once we arrived on the top, it was definitely worth it.  I can only imagine how beautiful it must be on a warm sunny day but we were lucky enough to see past the grey mist and look upon France from the top of the cliffs. 


                                             

                       
The view of the port and France on the horizon


The castle is absolutely beautiful.  It was founded in the 12th century and has been described as the "Key to England" due to its defensive significance throughout history.  It is also the largest castle in England.  

 The view down from the Castle to the Church


We had a tour through the secret wartime tunnels.  The outbreak of the Second World War saw the tunnels converted first into an air-raid shelter and later into a military centre and underground hospital.