Shorncliffe
Shorncliffe Backdoor Training Area is former army training ground covering 35 hectares of mixed grassland, dense scrub, and open woodland. White Cliffs Countryside Partnership manage the site on behalf of Taylor Wimpey and are working to improve the area to enhance biodiversity, improve public access, and to protect features of archaeological and heritage value to maximise the potential for education and public enjoyment.
Shorncliffe military history dates to 1794 when the British army purchased over 92 hectares of land. In 1803, Sir John Moore trained the Light Division that fought under the Duke of Wellington in the Napoleonic Wars. In 1890 permanent facilities, including Moore Barracks, Napier Barracks, and the Royal Engineers Barracks (later known as Burgoyne Barracks) were established. Shorncliffe was used as a staging post for troops destined for the Western Front during the First World War and in April 1915 a Canadian Training Division was formed there.
During your visit to Shorncliffe keep an eye out for views of the English Channel, the French coast, and the sweeping Kent coastline that takes your eye to the Romney March Countryside Partnership site in Dungeness.
Things to look out for
Ravens, jays, and a variety of smaller birds. The plant communities here include broad buckler-fern, scaly male-fern, English oak, and bluebells.
Visitor Information
Open: 24 hours
Parking: Parking available on site.
Accessibility: There are several formal paths from east to west. Steps, slopes, and uneven surfaces across the site.
Facilities: No on-site facilities.
Dogs: Welcome on leads.
Nearest bus stop: Cromwell Park Place (route 70) The Fountain (route 102, 16 gold)
Other information: The site undulates considerably from north to south with some areas not being accessible due to their gradient.
