Situated along the banks of the Dover Strait, the White Cliffs of Dover remain one of the most prized natural wonders in all of Great Britain. The White Cliffs of Dover are rich with history and natural beauty.
History
The striking white portion of the cliffs formed naturally as chalk deposits embedded themselves into the side of the cliffs millions of years ago.
Geography
The White Cliffs of Dover face continental Europe, specifically France. On clear days visitors can easily view France across the strait with the naked eye.
Features
The cliffs sit as high at 300 feet in some spots. The actual chalk, comprised of a fine limestone, lies as thick as 1,000 feet in some areas.
Significance
With its close proximity to continental Europe, the White Cliffs of Dover have served as an important wartime location. In fact, tunnels and bunkers were carved into the brittle cliffs as fortification points during World War II.
Famous Ties
The cliffs have inspired various works of art, including the well-known World War II song "(There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover." William Shakespeare, Rudyard Kipling and Jamaica Kincaid have all made mention of the cliffs in their writings as well.
History
The striking white portion of the cliffs formed naturally as chalk deposits embedded themselves into the side of the cliffs millions of years ago.
Geography
The White Cliffs of Dover face continental Europe, specifically France. On clear days visitors can easily view France across the strait with the naked eye.
Features
The cliffs sit as high at 300 feet in some spots. The actual chalk, comprised of a fine limestone, lies as thick as 1,000 feet in some areas.
Significance
With its close proximity to continental Europe, the White Cliffs of Dover have served as an important wartime location. In fact, tunnels and bunkers were carved into the brittle cliffs as fortification points during World War II.
Famous Ties
The cliffs have inspired various works of art, including the well-known World War II song "(There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover." William Shakespeare, Rudyard Kipling and Jamaica Kincaid have all made mention of the cliffs in their writings as well.