Perched on the White Cliffs of Dover, South Foreland Lighthouse is a decommissioned Victorian lighthouse with a remarkable history and breathtaking views. During its 142 years of operation, it guided ships safely through the Strait of Dover, survived two World Wars, and made history as the first lighthouse in the world to use an electric light.
Make a day of it with a game of skittles, quoits or giant noughts and crosses, or borrow a kite or skipping rope for free from the shop. You can also join a guided tour to discover more about this fascinating landmark.
See also our listings on the White Cliffs of Dover and the nearby  Fan Bay Shelter.

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Opening Hours
Lighthouse
30th March to 1st November
Selected days
11am-5.30pm
Pre booking is not necessary, but space is very limited.
Last tour at 5pm
Tearoom
Selected days
From 21st March to 1st November
11am-3pm
Full opening hours on the official South Foreland Lighthouse website.

Price
Free access to the lighthouse grounds and the tearoom during their normal opening hours
Lighthouse Tours
Adult: £8
Child - 5 to 17 years: £4
Family- 2 adults + up to 3 children: £20
Grounds: Free.

Accessibility
There are two steps to enter the Lighthouse. The ground floor is accessible, but there is no access to the upper floors of the lighthouse without the use of stairs. In the grounds, there are loose gravel paths, uneven ground and steep slopes. The Tearoom has removable ramps and an accessible toilet. Visitors who are unable to walk can park in the grounds by prior arrangement.

Dogs
Allowed in outside areas, guide dogs in all areas.

Travel Details

Cycling
NCN1, passes ½ mile from the lighthouse, cycle into St Margaret's village, head towards the sea and turn right into Lighthouse Road, then follow the track to the lighthouse. Cycle racks available.

Train
Dover Priory - 3 miles.

Road
Not accessible by car. Park at the White Cliffs of Dover, with a 2-mile clifftop walk or park at St Margaret’s village, 1 mile.

Additional Notes
Borrow a kite for free and play family games and activities on the lawn.

Facilities
Cafe • Toilet • Disabled Toilet • Induction Loop • Picnic Area

Picture Credit: © National Trust.

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