Why We Love Spending Time in Kingsdown
As Deal residents, we know Kingsdown very well indeed. This lovely coastal village just south of Deal has plenty going for it. Think colourful beach huts, wildflowers growing among the beach shingle, dramatic chalk cliffs stretching towards St Margaret’s Bay and beautiful woodland walks at the top of the village, where bluebells carpet the ground in spring. Then there’s the Zetland Arms, a pub right on the beach where you can practically dip your toes in the sea while enjoying a glass of wine or a pint of beer.
Whether you’re visiting for the afternoon, planning a family day out or staying a little longer, here are some of our favourite things to do in Kingsdown to help you make the most of your visit.
1. Spend an Afternoon on Kingsdown Beach
You cannot beat a day at Kingsdown Beach with its colourful beach huts and the dramatic SSSI-protected chalk cliffs stretching towards St Margaret’s Bay.
One of our favourite things to do in spring is pop along to the beach to enjoy the coastal flowers just north of the Zetland Arms, from sea kale and yellow horned-poppies to striking red-hot pokers. It really is beautuful!
At low tide, rock pools appear by cliffs just along from the Zetland Arms, perfect for children to explore or try shrimping with a large net. The beach is also popular for kayaking and paddle-boarding when the sea is calm.
Our tip: Bring beach shoes and check the tide times before exploring the rock pools.
2. Enjoy a Long Lunch at the Zetland Arms
The Zetland Arms is another great reason to visit Kingsdown. Sitting directly on the pebbles, this traditional seaside pub has tables overlooking the English Channel. We love stopping here for a pint and fish and chips on a sunny day, watching the ferries passing in the distance.
In winter, the cosy interior is just as appealing after a blustery beach walk.
Our tip: It’s particularly popular at weekends and during the summer, so booking a table is essential.
3. Walk Along the Cliffs to St Margaret’s Bay
Arguably one of the most beautiful walks around here, this clifftop route takes a couple of hours and can be wonderfully blustery. Starting at Kingsdown Beach, climb the steps carved into the cliffs near the golf course or take the easier tarmacked road up to the coastal path.
The route passes through SSSI-protected chalk grassland, with spectacular views across the English Channel and, on clear days, France. Once in St Margaret’s Bay, head down to The Coastguard for a well-earned drink or lunch overlooking the sea.
For more coastal walking inspiration, explore our Guide to the White Cliffs of Dover.
Our tip: Keep dogs on leads at all times and watch little ones closely. Around 15 minutes into the walk, part of the cliff has fallen away, leaving sections of the path close to the edge. Wear proper walking shoes and check the route before setting off, as coastal erosion can change conditions.
4. Follow the Cycle Trail to St Margaret’s Bay
Fancy exploring Kingsdown on two wheels? National Cycle Network Route 1 takes you from Kingsdown towards St Margaret’s at Cliffe, through some of Kent’s loveliest coastal scenery.
Start along the beachfront, with the sea on one side and a colourful display of coastal wildflowers in spring and summer, before heading uphill into the countryside. Some climbs are pretty steep, and we often hop off and walk the tougher stretches!
Once in St Margaret’s, you can cycle down the winding road to the beach, where you’ll find The Coastguard pub and a little refreshment hut serving drinks and snacks. Be careful on the descent, as the bends are steep.
And while you’re there, explore our Guide to Things to Do in St Margaret’s Bay for more ideas on what to see and do in this beautiful corner of the Kent coast.
Don’t have bikes? Hut 55 on Deal seafront offers bike hire, with adult bikes from £18 for three hours or £27 for the day, including helmets.
Our tip: Allow plenty of time, especially with children. This route is considerably hillier than the flat coastal path to Deal.
5. Play a Round at Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club
Golf with a sea view? This one takes some beating.
Perched high above the Channel, Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club is a spectacular clifftop course with panoramic views towards France.
Designed by James Braid, the course is known for its challenging layout, coastal winds and glorious scenery.
Even if your golf game isn’t quite up to scratch, the setting is something special.
Our tip: Check visitor tee times and booking arrangements before travelling.
6. Discover the History of Hawkshill Freedown
Just behind Walmer Castle, as you approach Kingsdown, Hawkshill Freedown is a beautiful stretch of open chalk grassland with panoramic views across the English Channel. But there’s more to this peaceful spot than meets the eye.
During the First World War, the area was home to Walmer Aerodrome, established in 1917 to help defend shipping in the Channel. During the Second World War, radar equipment was also installed here.
Start your walk from the small chalk car park off Upper Road, behind Walmer Castle, and follow the paths towards Kingsdown. Along the way, you’ll discover war memorials, information boards and plenty of wildlife, particularly butterflies and wildflowers in the warmer months.
Our tip: Bring a picnic and find a spot overlooking the sea. On a clear day, you can see all the way to France.
7. Wander Through Kingsdown’s Beautiful Bluebell Woods
If you’re visiting Kingsdown in spring, don’t miss the beautiful bluebell woods. It’s one of our favourite recommendations for families with young children.
During April and May, the woodland floor becomes a carpet of violet-blue flowers beneath the trees. There are several ways into the woods, although some entrances can be tricky to find.
The woods are lovely throughout the year, with shady paths in summer and golden leaves in autumn.
Our tip: Just past the last house on Victoria Road, you’ll find a dirt path running alongside the property. Follow it until you spot a clearing in the bushes leading into the woods. Keep your phone and map handy to help you find your way, and stick to the paths to protect the bluebells.
8. Cycle Along the Coast to Deal
The coastal path north towards Walmer and Deal is one of the loveliest ways to explore this stretch of Kent. It’s largely flat, unlike the ride to St Margaret’s Bay, with uninterrupted sea views and colourful beach huts along the way.
You’ll pass Walmer Castle and Gardens before continuing towards Deal Castle and the town’s famous pier. Once in Deal, stop at one of our favourite spots, Hut 55 on the beach, for excellent coffee, enormous sausage rolls and delicious cakes.
From here, you can explore Deal’s independent shops, galleries and restaurants before cycling back along the coast.
And while you’re there, explore our Guide to Things to Do in Deal for more ideas on what to see and do, from independent shops and galleries to our favourite places to eat and drink.
Our tip: Hut 55 also offers bike hire if you haven’t brought your own. The flat coastal path is equally lovely on foot and ideal for families with buggies.
9. Take a Morning Swim or Try Kayaking or canoeing
Kingsdown’s coastline is a lovely spot for sea swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding when conditions allow. There’s a friendly group of local swimmers who regularly meet early in the morning, setting up a table with hot drinks to warm up after their dip.
Head towards Oldstairs Bay, at the southern end of the beach, where rock pools appear at low tide. It’s also where you can begin the spectacular clifftop walk towards St Margaret’s Bay.
Our tip: Early mornings are particularly beautiful, with the sun rising over the Channel. Always check the tides, weather and sea conditions before heading into the water.
10. Spend a Day Exploring Deal
One of the best things about staying in Kingsdown is having its busier big brother, Deal, just up the coast.
This characterful seaside town is packed with independent shops, galleries, excellent restaurants and lovely little cafés.
Walk along the pier to Deal Pier Kitchen for spectacular views of the sea and shoreline, explore Deal Castle, built by Henry VIII to defend the coast against invasion, or browse the independent boutiques and beautiful Georgian houses along Middle Street.
There’s plenty to keep you entertained for an entire day.
For more inspiration, explore our Guide to Things to Do in Deal, packed with local recommendations, favourite places to eat and drink, and the best ways to discover this lovely stretch of the Kent coast.
11. Visit Walmer Castle and Gardens
Just along the coast from Kingsdown, Walmer Castle and Gardens makes a brilliant family day out. Originally built by Henry VIII, the castle is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, cared for by the gardening team and volunteers, with a lovely café and gift shop.
Don’t miss the Queen Mother’s Garden, the famous Cloud Hedges and the woodland play trail. There are also seasonal family events, which we loved taking our children to when they were younger.
We recommend an annual English Heritage membership, which makes regular visits much more affordable. Family membership currently costs £84 a year for one adult and up to six children, or £149 for two adults and up to 12 children, with unlimited visits to over 400 historic sites.
For more inspiration, explore our Guide to Walmer Castle and Gardens, packed with family-friendly things to see and do, our favourite spots in the gardens and practical tips for making the most of your visit.
Our tip: The castle interiors are currently closed for conservation work, but the gardens, café and shop remain open, with admission reduced by 30%. Check opening times before visiting.
Kingsdown at a Glance
| Location | Kingsdown, near Deal, on the Kent coast |
| County | Kent, England |
| Population | Approximately 1,692 (2021 Census) |
| Established | Medieval origins, with much of the village developing during the 17th and 18th centuries |
| Beach | Shingle, with sand and rock pools at low tide |
| Known for | Colourful beach huts, chalk cliffs, coastal walks and the Zetland Arms |
| Best for | Beach days, walking, cycling, golf and family holidays |
| Nearby towns | Deal, Walmer, Sandwich and Dover |
| Coastal walks | Saxon Shore Way and the coastal path to St Margaret’s Bay |
| Cycling | Flat coastal route to Deal and hillier routes towards St Margaret’s Bay |
| Nearest train stations | Walmer and Martin Mill |
| Dog-friendly | Beach walks, countryside footpaths and dog-friendly pubs |
Where exactly is Kingsdown, Kent?
Kingsdown is a coastal village in the Dover district of Kent, England located on the English Channel coast at the northern end of the White Cliffs of Dover.
It began as a small coastal fishing community, developing into a village during the 17th and 18th centuries. Its position overlooking the English Channel also gave the area a role in Britain’s military history, with nearby Hawkshill Freedown used as an aerodrome during the First World War to help protect shipping in the Channel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kingsdown
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Is Kingsdown worth visiting?
Absolutely. Kingsdown is a lovely coastal village with a peaceful beach, traditional pubs, spectacular walking routes and beautiful countryside. It's particularly appealing if you enjoy quieter seaside destinations. -
What is Kingsdown Beach like?
Kingsdown Beach is predominantly shingle, with patches of sand and rock pools appearing at low tide. It's lined with colourful beach huts and offers wonderful views towards the White Cliffs. -
Is Kingsdown good for families?
Yes. Children can enjoy exploring the beach, rock pooling and cycling along the flat coastal path towards Deal. Nearby Walmer Castle and Gardens is another excellent family attraction. -
Can you walk from Kingsdown to Deal?
Yes. A largely flat coastal path connects Kingsdown with Walmer and Deal. It's suitable for walking and cycling, with beautiful sea views along the way. -
When is the best time to see bluebells in Kingsdown?
Bluebells typically flower between mid-April and May. The woodland around Kingsdown is particularly pretty during spring, when the trees begin to leaf and the woodland floor fills with wildflowers. -
Are dogs allowed on Kingsdown Beach?
Kingsdown Beach welcomes dogs throughout the year. Follow local signs and any lead requirements, particularly around wildlife and protected coastal habitats. -
Where can you park in Kingsdown?
Parking close to Kingsdown Beach is limited, particularly during busy summer weekends. There is also parking further north near Walmer Castle, with access to the coastal path. -
Are there public toilets at Kingsdown?
Yes there are public toilets at Undercliffe Road near Kingsdown beach.
Need a Little Local Advice?
If you have any questions about the area, need a local recommendation or would like help finding the right holiday cottage, get in touch with our friendly local team. We’re always happy to help you make the most of your visit.
Make a weekend of it
Lovely places to stay in Kingsdown.
Fancy staying a little longer? We can’t say we blame you.
From morning coffees overlooking the Channel to afternoon walks along the cliffs, springtime strolls through bluebell woods and leisurely lunches at the Zetland Arms, Kingsdown is a lovely place to spend a few days by the sea.
Explore our collection of holiday cottages in Kingsdown, from cosy coastal boltholes to spacious homes perfect for gathering friends and family. All carefully selected, beautifully presented and wonderfully close to the Kent coast.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic cottage for two, a dog-friendly escape, a holiday cottage with sea views or a larger home for family and friends, we’ve got some rather lovely places to stay.
Explore our holiday cottages in Kingsdown and make a proper break of it.
Meet the Writers
We’re a small team with a big passion for the Kent coast. All based locally, we love sharing our first-hand knowledge, favourite finds and insider tips on the best places to eat, stay and explore.
Scott | Co-Founder
Fellow Coaste founder, Scott knows the Kent coast inside out and is a passionate foodie. He loves discovering local restaurants, sourcing fresh Kent produce and cooking up something delicious at home.
Ally | Founder & Editor
Founder of Coaste and a Kent local, Ally brings over 20 years’ experience in design, travel and marketing, including The Sunday Times, British Airways and Saga Travel.
Julie | Copywriter
A keen rambler and dog walker, Julie loves exploring Kent’s coastal paths, countryside trails and dog-friendly spots, sharing her favourite walks and discoveries along the way.