Hythe to Folkestone

This wonderful part of the King Charles III England Coast Path, begins at the west end of Hythe, next to the Hythe station of the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway. This footpath runs right alongside the Royal Military Canal and provides instant tranquility from the busy market town of Hythe.

Leave the heart of Hythe behind, walk down the Royal Military Canal where, in summer you will be able to admire the electric excursion boat, the rowing boats and canoeists as they make their way gracefully along.

Pass Sandgate Beach, a peaceful pebble shore with the lure of the French cliffs which can be seen clearly in the correct light. Sandgate was once a little bastion that protected against invasion with six Martello towers standing proud on the heights.

Continue past Sandgate Castle, the first King Henry VIII’s device forts.

On arrival at Folkestone, look out for “The venerable funicular railway” which connects the Lower and Upper Leas. Looking up onto the Lea, you will see the Step Short Arch, commemorating the many soldiers who were shipped into and out of Folkestone. Also, here is the splendid architecture of the Leas Cliff Hall jutting out of the escarpment.

As this coastal walk comes to an end, head towards the old Folkestone Harbour railway station platform across a boardwalk in the shingle. The railway was restored in 2017 with platforms and station canopies reverted back to their former glory. Spend some time in the cultural quarter and sample some food and drink from around the harbour and harbour arm wherewith walk ends.