Abbot’s Cliff

Visit Abbot’s Cliff

Abbot’s Cliff between Folkestone and Dover is a remote warren and shingle beach with secluded spots to sunbathe. Popular with naturists the beach is accessed from Samphire Hoe Country Park and ‘The Warren’ Country Park.

It offers some of the most dramatic sea views on the Kent coast. This isn’t your typical beach day out with deckchairs and ice creams; it’s wild, windswept, and utterly breathtaking.

The area is named after the chalk cliffs that stretch out along this part of the coastline, towering above a remote strip of beach that’s only accessible at low tide or by adventurous hikers. What makes Abbot’s Cliff especially striking is the feeling of standing right on the edge of the land, with the sea crashing far below and huge skies all around you. On clear days, you can even see France across the Channel.

This spot is part of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it’s easy to see why. Walkers love it for the cliff-top paths, especially the stretch that links up with the North Downs Way. It’s also popular with birdwatchers and nature lovers – kestrels and peregrine falcons are often seen hovering above the cliff face.

Abbots Cliff Sound Mirror

For those interested in history, the area holds echoes of wartime Britain. There are old military buildings and remnants of Second World War defences dotted around, and Abbot’s Cliff Sound Mirror – a giant concrete dish once used to detect incoming aircraft built in 1928 – still stands silently overlooking the sea. It’s a haunting reminder of the coastline’s strategic importance.

Reaching the beach below is difficult and can be dangerous, so it’s not really suited to casual beachgoers or families with young children. If the tide is out and you’re experienced, some locals do clamber down carefully to enjoy the isolation and sea-worn beauty of the shoreline. But for most, the magic lies up top, with a flask of tea and a walk along the cliffs.

There are no lifeguards, cafés or toilets nearby, so it’s best to come prepared. Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring whatever you need with you – there are no shops or facilities at the cliff itself. Parking is limited too. Some visitors park in nearby Capel-le-Ferne and walk in from there, soaking in the sea air and stunning views along the way.

Abbot’s Cliff might not suit everyone, but if you love raw coastal landscapes, peace and solitude, it’s a gem. It’s the kind of place where you can truly clear your head, watch the weather roll in across the sea, and feel a real connection to nature.

Just to the West of Samphire Hoe Country Park visitors can reach the beach at low tide or walk along the sea wall from the Eastern Pleasure Beach off Wear Bay Road, Folkestone.

The imposing Chalk cliffs dominate, but beware of falling chalk. It is not advisable to sit directly underneath.

Abbot’s Cliff is dog friendly all year round.