FOLKESTONE IS OF INTERNATIONAL IMPORTANCE FOR WILDLIFE

Folkestone is surrounded by beautiful countryside which is of international importance for wildlife.  The countryside can be easily reached by walking or cycling, just follow the Corridors to the Countryside routes.

The East Cliff & Warren Country Park is only a short walk along the Rabbit route from Folkestone town centre,and is the gateway to the Dover-Folkestone Heritage Coast.  It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) of national importance for its wildlife and geology and is one of the best places in S. England to find fossils. 

The Folkestone Downs are of European importance for wildlife, especially orchids, and are protected as a Special Area for Conservation (SAC) as well as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.  Follow the Kestrel routes from the town centre. At Castle Hill, there are the grassy remains of a 12th century Motte and Bailey fortification; look out for the interpretation panels which show what the castle would have looked like.

Discover the coastal walks and the brilliant children's play area of  Lower Leas Coastal Park, located in a hidden world of the undercliff below The Leas. Follow the Crab route from Folkestone town centre.

Explore the countryside of the Seabrook Valley, where there are two walking trails - the Woodland Walk and the Wellyboot Wander - for you to enjoy.  Follow the Dragonfly route from Folkestone town centre.

The White Cliffs Countryside Partnership have produced free colour leaflets for all the above sites (except the Lower Leas), which can be obtained from the local visitor information centres or from WCCP (01303 274806).

The WCCP also organises regular guided walks and conservation management tasks; you can find details of all the events in this web site, or you can obtain the free booklet of events (01304 241806).