10 Most Iconic Landmarks on the South Coast of England
Discover the Most Famous Landmarks on the South Coast
The South Coast of England is a world heritage heavyweight with countless iconic landmarks scattered along this gorgeous stretch of land. From natural phenomena on prehistoric shores to quaint towns and remarkable historical landmarks, you’ll be spoilt for sightseeing options when heading South. It’s also great that the weather here tends to be kinder than in other parts of England.
With more than 300 miles of stunning coastline to explore, planning a trip here can seem a bit daunting, but with a little guidance below, you’ll be planned and packed in no time. Follow us on an insightful journey to the South Coast’s most iconic sites.
1. The White Cliffs of Dover
Brilliant White Cliffs of Great Cultural Significance
Ideal para: Famílias, Foto, Econômico, Aventura
The White Cliffs of Dover are an icon of England with their dazzling white faces and sharp edges standing 530 feet above sea level. These famous cliffs are made of striking white chalk and their geology dates back millions of years. The cliffs have played host to many key moments of British history, standing as a formidable barrier to invasion during both world wars and even coming face to face with Julius Caesar. Dame Vera Lynn even sung an iconic wartime song featuring these cliffs.
Start your walk to the cliffs from Dover Beach, take in the views at Beachy Head, the highest of the cliffs and, for a little something extra, walk further to the tranquil South Foreland Lighthouse.
The White Cliffs of Dover
2. Canterbury Cathedral
Over a millennia of history to absorb
Ideal para: História, Foto, Econômico
Canterbury Cathedral draws crowds in for its impressive history and regal beauty. As the site of the shrine to Thomas Becket and the seat of the Archbishop, history-lovers will rejoice in visiting this landmark. You can learn more about its past through guided tours that take place daily. The grounds are huge, so allow time to fully explore the cathedral’s many gorgeous features, such as a Romanesque crypt, glorious medieval stained-glass windows and a perpendicular nave.
An entrance fee applies, except on Sundays when it’s free during services. If you want exterior pictures without the crowds, come back in the evening for a little photo shoot.
Localização: Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury CT1 2EH, UK
Abre: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, Sundays from 12.30 pm to 5 pm
Telefone: +44 (0)1227 762862
Canterbury Cathedral
3. The Needles, Isle of Wight
A chairlift ride high above the beach
Ideal para: Famílias, Foto, Econômico, Aventura
The Needles are iconic sandstone cliffs on the lovely coastline of Alum Bay. They’ve attracted visitors for years with their unique geology and striking silhouettes. These stacks of rock lie off the western point of the Isle of Wight and rise to about 100 feet above sea level.
An exhilarating chairlift ride transports you from the clifftop to the beach below with marvellous bird’s-eye views of the multi-coloured cliffs and glistening blue waters that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Besides stunningly beautiful geology, The Needles also offer riveting history, and traditional children’s rides and family attractions can be found nearby. Make sure you also check out the famous Needles Lighthouse on the last rocky outcrop.
Localização: Alum Bay New Road, Alum Bay PO39 0JD, UK
Abre: Daily from 10 am to 4 pm
Telefone: +44 (0)1983 752401
The Needles, Isle of Wight
4. HMS Victory, Portsmouth
Lord Nelson’s famous ship from the Battle of Trafalgar
Ideal para: Famílias, História, Foto
A trip to see HMS Victory will be a fun, history-filled day uncovering the story behind the oldest warship in the world, launched in 1765. As one of the largest wooden ships ever built, and paramount to the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar, HMS Victory holds a solid place in British history. Her grand scale (227 feet long with 3 gun decks) matches her epic past. As the world’s oldest naval ship, she’s still technically in service.
The view of the Victory from the dock is impressive enough, but a wander inside truly takes you back in time, with her cramped spaces and the evocative smell of old timber. Young children will particularly love examining the cannons and naval paraphernalia.
Localização: Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth PO1 3NH, UK
Abre: Daily from 10 am to 5.30 pm
Telefone: +44 (0)2392 891370
HMS Victory, Portsmouth
5. Brighton Pavilion
An exotic palace by the sea
Ideal para: Famílias, História, Foto
Brighton Pavilion, also known as The Royal Pavilion, is the extraordinary seaside palace of the Prince Regent (George IV). It was transformed by architect John Nash between 1815 and 1823 into one of the most recognisable and striking buildings in Britain. The intricately and extravagantly decorated palace fits right into place in the vibrant and eclectic city of Brighton.
The landmark’s opulence stuns all visitors and is certainly one of the finest examples of early 19th-century chinoiserie anywhere in Europe. Since Brighton itself is great to explore, we recommend planning your visit as part of a full day of sightseeing. Check out the North Laine district for alternative boutiques, independent fashion retailers, hand-made crafts and art galleries.
Localização: The Royal Pavilion, Brighton BN1 1FN, UK
Abre: April–September: daily from 9.30 am to 5.45 pm. October–March: daily from 10 am to 5.15 pm
Telefone: +44 (0)300 029 0900
Brighton Pavilion
6. Dover Castle
Centuries of history to roam through
Ideal para: Famílias, História, Foto
Dover Castle is among the most renowned English fortresses, having acted as the gateway to the realm for 9 centuries and seen everything from the Romans to the Cold War. The castle sits at the top, literally and metaphorically, of Dover’s cityscape and was used to strengthen the country’s weakest point at the shortest sea crossing to mainland Europe.
Highlights of this revered castle include the unmissable secret wartime tunnels and the imposing Great Tower, which hosts historical exhibits. Take the 50-minute guided tour to get the most out of your visit. The sprawling grounds contain the remains of a Roman lighthouse, which may be the oldest standing building in Britain, and a walk along the battlements provides excellent views.
Localização: Castle Hill Road, Dover CT16 1HU, UK
Abre: Hours vary by season
Telefone: +44 (0)1304 211067
Dover Castle
7. The Jurassic Coast
Ninety-six miles of breath-taking coastline
Ideal para: Famílias, História, Foto, Aventura
As a World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast should be high on your list of things to do in the UK. This diverse and gorgeous landscape features incredible geology that is sure to thrill nature enthusiasts. The spectacular shoreline spans from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland in Dorset, encompassing 185 million years of the Earth’s history in just 96 miles. You can ‘walk through time’ in just a few hours.
On a full tour of the coast, you can see the stamp of time through the contrasting colours of stone and rock. Devon features rusty-red Triassic rocks while Lulworth Cove has younger, creamy-coloured Cretaceous rocks. Highlights include Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Corfe Castle, West Bay, Sandbanks and Chesil Beach.
8. Rye, East Sussex
Quaint cobbled lanes lined with medieval houses
Ideal para: Famílias, História, Foto
Found near the coast, Rye could be among the last few of England’s best-kept secrets. Tucked in between green undulating hills and the English Channel, it’s one of the best-preserved medieval towns in England. This quaint town enchants with names like Mermaid Street, Wish Street and Watchbell Lane peppered all over the place.
With crooked half-timber houses, steep cobbled lanes, ancient inns, a castle and a beach walk, it makes for a lovely and laidback day out or weekend trip. Linger around the lanes, exploring the cute shops and cafes, and then head to Camber Sands for a picnic on the beach. If you’re looking for a little history, pop to Bodiam Castle, which is surrounded by a glimmering moat.
Rye, East Sussex
9. Ramsgate, East Kent
A quintessential British seaside town
Ideal para: Famílias, História, Foto
Ramsgate is a historical port town that features a bustling Royal Harbour and yacht-packed marina that’s brimming with history and picturesque charm. Visit the Maritime Museum where you’ll learn about Ramsgate’s rich heritage in fishing and shipbuilding. A must-see is the Ramsgate Tunnels, where you can tour the largest Civilian Deep Shelter Air Raid Precaution where over 300 families lived permanently in 1940.
For something more leisurely, walk around the town admiring the elegant Georgian terraces or head to the sea to watch seals basking on the Goodwin Sands. For nature lovers, walk the coastal path to Broadstairs or head south on the epic Saxon Shore Way to the wildlife-rich Pegwell Bay Country Park.
Ramsgate, East Kent
10. Kent Downs
An enchanting nature reserve with staggering views
Ideal para: Famílias, História, Foto
The Kent Downs on England’s South Coast stretch from the White Cliffs of Dover up to the borders of Surrey and London, encompassing vibrant and contrasting landscapes. They have dramatic chalk cliffs, secluded dry valleys, networks of minuscule lanes and charming hedgerows. You’ll also find ancient woodlands, pretty historical villages and towns, traditional orchards and many hotspots of culture and wildlife.
Ranscombe Farm is famous for its stunning wildflowers and Kent Orchard for its apple-picking. When it comes to walking trails, there’s an endless supply. A favourite is the North Downs Way. There’s Romney Marsh with its haunting beauty, that can be explored via walking or cycling trails, and Blean Woods, the largest area of ancient woodland in England.
Kent Downs
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