Shakespeare Beach

Recently reopened after the beach’s seawall was almost completely destroyed in a storm in 2015, Shakespeare Beach’s long stretch of shingles is popular among locals and visitors alike.

Known as a bit of a hotspot with swimmers, swimming the Channel from Shakespeare Beach is the shortest distance between the UK and France. Even if visitors aren’t there for long-distance swimming, accessing the beach itself can be a bit of a workout - the most direct route is via more than 100 steps down to the water. Alternatively you can walk over from the western side of the port near Dover Marina.

The beach’s location within a bay, just minutes from the nearby Shakespeare Cliff, is also home to deep rock pools, which can be accessed at low tide. The wonderful walk and open space make it an ideal place to bring dogs and they are allowed on the beach year round, although there are no litter facilities.