Today is the second day of the 2014 White Cliffs Walking Festival, so we are challenging readers to put your best feet forward.
Organised by the White Cliffs Ramblers – the branch of the national Ramblers organisation covering south Kent – the festival will feature 32 walks over seven days.
The stunning view of St Margaret's Bay
Today's walking schedule includes five walks, encompassing our maritime, defence and mining history.
Meet at Alkham Village Green car park at 10am. Walk the lovely Alkham Valley and visit the Cat & Custard Pot for lunch, formerly frequented by Battle of Britain pilots from the nearby airfield at Hawkinge. This 12-mile walk is led by Richard Blackford. Battle of Britain Walk:
Meet at St Margaret's village car park next to the church at 11am for this 8-mile walk led by Alan Clewer. This is a classic cliff-top walk with excellent views via South Foreland Lighthouse and Langdon Cliffs National Trust Centre. Pub lunch or packed lunch. Light and Cliffs Walk:
: Meet at the entrance to Deal Castle at 2pm and walk to Sandown Castle, learn the history of these 'flat' castles and the threats to England at the time. Walk back to Deal Castle and visit the ramparts, and then to Walmer Castle (with the option of tea and cakes at own expense.) This 3.5mile walk has spaces for only 20 people. £2 entrance to parts of the castles - free to English Heritage members. It may be repeated on Saturday if demand is high. Book your space with walk leader Jerry Swallow on 01304 363272.Three Castles Walk
: Meet at 4.45pm opposite the Royal Oak pub in Nonington for this leisurely 5-mile walk through Fredville Park, Frogham, Woolage and Womenswold, exploring part of the Miner's Way Trail. Book with Margaret Lubbock 01304 831011The Miners Trail
led by Keith Parfitt. This 2-mile walk starts at Russell Street car park. It involves ab easy walk around Dover. Learn about the Dover you should know and its fascinating history. History and Archaeology of Dover WalkToday's last event is the
www.whitecliffswalkingfestival.org.ukFor the full schedule of walks, pick up a brochure at the Mercury office, Tourist Information office, and other shops and venues across Deal and Dover. Alternatively visit:
