What are the White Cliffs of Dover?
The White Cliffs of Dover are chalk cliffs on the coast of Kent, facing France across the Strait of Dover. Rising up to about 110 metres, they are a symbol of England and have welcomed travelers for centuries.
The cliffs are made of chalk formed from the skeletons of tiny marine organisms that lived around 70 to 100 million years ago. Black flint bands run through the chalk.
On a clear day, the coast of France can be seen from the cliffs. The Strait of Dover is the narrowest part of the English Channel, about 21 miles wide.
Wartime symbol
During World War II, the cliffs were an important symbol of home for British soldiers and airmen. The song The White Cliffs of Dover, sung by Vera Lynn, became famous during the war.
Tunnels inside the cliffs at Dover Castle were used as a military command center during the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940.
The National Trust looks after much of the cliffs, with walking trails and a lighthouse, South Foreland. Ferries to France depart from the Port of Dover, one of the busiest ferry ports in Europe.