Colourful Orchids, Flowers & Insect Safari at the White Cliffs of Dover
Join us on a gentle walk, searching for orchids, other plants, invertebrates and other animals through the colourful chalk grassland habitats at White Cliffs and Fox Hill Down.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Join us on a gentle and slow-paced walk through the colourful and picturesque chalk downland of The White Cliffs of Dover. We'll search for orchids, other plants, invertebrates and other animals. Mel Wrigley, our experienced ecologist will lead the walk and there'll be plenty of time to identify and talk about what we find. The route is circular, so there'll always be something new to see. If the weather is good, there'll be some spectacular views of the cliffs and the Dover Strait and you may even see France! No experience is needed - just a love of the outdoors and the wildlife waiting to be discovered.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
Supervised children are welcome
- Meeting point
Meet Mel outside the Visitor Centre shop at 10.30am for a prompt start.
- What to bring and wear
Please dress for the weather, which can change suddenly. If it has rained recently some of the ground may be boggy, so stout shoes or boots may be a good idea. We suggest you bring a bottle of water.
- Accessibility
Some of the walks will be on surfaced paths, but we will be deviating on occasions to search for the orchids and other flowers, plants and animals. Some of the paths are steep with steps and may not be suitable for wheelchairs.
- Other
Dogs on a short lead are welcome - if you bring your dog please be sure to bring it a drink too as there is no clean water in the locations we'll be in. We won't be going near the cliff edge. The walk is free of charge, normal parking charges apply. National Trust members and Blue Badge holders can park for free. We start and finish back at the Visitor Centre and you should return in good time for lunch at the Visitor Centre cafeteria, or you can bring a picnic to eat on the benches outside. We suggest you use the facilities in the Visitor Centre before setting off as there are no facilities in the countryside.
Upcoming events
Guided walks to South Foreland Lighthouse
Enjoy a free leisurely guided walk along the cliffs to South Foreland Lighthouse with one of our experienced volunteers. Take in the spectacular views while hearing about the flora, fauna and the history of this iconic place.
Plant Fair
The White Cliffs of Dover Plant Fair is your opportunity to revitalise your garden, window box or window ledges with top-quality plants at bargain prices. Lovingly tended by our volunteers, these plants will satisfy the most discerning gardener.
Vintage Book Fair
Do you love the smell, feel, and look of old books? Why not come and browse our large collection of vintage books? They make wonderful keepsakes and are available for sale at a fraction of their online price.
Heritage Open Days - Wanstone Rediscovered 2025
Take a guided tour of the recently-uncovered remains of one of the largest guns installed on the British mainland and the D2 heavy anti-aircraft battery.