Dungeness Lighthouses Kent
Britain's only desert, a stark shingle spit with two iconic lighthouses, quirky cottages, and an otherworldly atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Dungeness Lighthouses Kent
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Britain's only desert, a stark shingle spit with two iconic lighthouses, quirky cottages, and an otherworldly atmosphere.
"What an extraordinary experience! It was WONDERFUL. Braved the beach and found some amazing beach treasures."
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The entire area is covered in shingle, so comfortable, supportive footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Prepare for Wind
Dungeness is very exposed; expect strong winds even on a pleasant day. Dress in layers. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dungeness Old Lighthouse
Dungeness Spit
Climb 169 steep steps for panoramic views of the unique landscape and coastline.
The 'Desert' Landscape
Dungeness Spit
Experience Britain's only desert, a vast, windswept shingle beach with an eerie, post-apocalyptic feel.
+1
Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Dungeness Station
Catch a ride on this charming miniature steam railway, a nostalgic journey through the unique Dungeness scenery.
Derek Jarman's Prospect Cottage
Dungeness Spit
A shrine to the filmmaker, this iconic cottage is a colorful landmark amidst the stark landscape.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unique Landscape
+1Plan Your Lighthouse Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The entire area is covered in shingle, so comfortable, supportive footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Prepare for Wind
Dungeness is very exposed; expect strong winds even on a pleasant day. Dress in layers. :cloud:
Lighthouse Climb
169 steep steps! Not for the faint-hearted or those with vertigo. :arrow_up:
Photographer's Dream
Bring your camera! The unique landscape, lighthouses, and quirky structures are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The entire area is covered in shingle, so comfortable, supportive footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Prepare for Wind
Dungeness is very exposed; expect strong winds even on a pleasant day. Dress in layers. :cloud:
Lighthouse Climb
169 steep steps! Not for the faint-hearted or those with vertigo. :arrow_up:
Photographer's Dream
Bring your camera! The unique landscape, lighthouses, and quirky structures are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Check Opening Times
Lighthouse access and railway schedules can vary, so check in advance. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Dungeness's extraordinary and otherworldly 'desert' landscape, often describing it as a unique gem. The climb up the old lighthouse is a highlight, offering stunning views despite its challenging steps. Many appreciate the quirky charm, the historical significance, and the photographic potential of the area.
"We didn't expect to see and do much in Dungeness but the climb up the 169 or so steps to the top of the lighthouse was fun at least. Not suitable if you're scared of heights or have difficulty climbing steep steps. Price was very cheap at £5 per adult."
Alan Amesbury
"What an extraordinary experience! It was WONDERFUL. We visited on a completely windswept, almost otherworldly day in the May half term. Braved the beach and found some amazing beach treasures before ascending the old light house. It was such a special experience and getting there early on an adverse weather kinda day meant we mostly had it to ourselves the whole time. The staff were delightful and we just fell in love with Dungeness in our short visit there. Worth a visit to the old lighthouse if you're in the area! ✨"
Cat C
"What a very nice but strange place not one but two lighthouses, a nuclear power station steep shingle beach cafe restaurant and train station. Personally I think it is a gem of the area"
alan bushell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dungeness is accessible by car, with parking available near the lighthouse and railway station.
Yes, driving is a straightforward way to reach Dungeness. Follow signs for Dungeness and be prepared for the shingle terrain once you arrive.
The Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway offers a scenic route to Dungeness.
There is parking available near the Dungeness Lighthouse and the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway station. Be aware that the ground is shingle.
Yes, Dungeness makes for a unique day trip from London, though it's a bit of a journey. Consider renting a car or taking a train to a nearby town and then a taxi or bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for climbing the old lighthouse is typically around £5 per adult, making it a very affordable experience.
Yes, the climb involves 169 steep steps and is not recommended for those with a fear of heights or mobility issues.
It's advisable to check the official website or contact the lighthouse operators for the most up-to-date information on booking requirements, especially during peak season.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and due to weather conditions. It's best to check the official Dungeness Lighthouse website or local listings before your visit.
No, Dungeness is a public area, and there is no entry fee to explore the shingle spit and its surroundings. Fees apply only for specific attractions like the lighthouse climb.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the unique 'desert' landscape, climb the old lighthouse for stunning views, ride the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, visit Derek Jarman's Prospect Cottage, and observe the wildlife in the nature reserve.
It's a vast expanse of shingle, officially Britain's only desert, with an almost post-apocalyptic feel. It's sparsely populated and features quirky cottages and abandoned boats.
The power station is a prominent landmark, but public access inside is not permitted. You can view it from the outside as part of the landscape.
Yes, Dungeness is a significant nature reserve and a haven for birdlife, particularly migratory birds. The RSPB reserve is a popular spot for birdwatchers.
Besides birds, you might spot various insects, reptiles, and marine life along the coast. The unique habitat supports a surprising amount of biodiversity.
📸 📸 Photography
The two lighthouses, Derek Jarman's Prospect Cottage, abandoned fishing boats, quirky beach huts, and the vast shingle landscape itself offer incredible photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and a unique atmosphere. Windswept days can also yield striking, moody shots.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check local bylaws and aviation authority guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low light and windy conditions.
Yes, you can get quite close to both the old and new lighthouses. The old lighthouse is accessible for climbing, offering unique interior shots as well.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Climbing the Old Lighthouse can be an exciting challenge for older kids (and adults!), but be mindful of the steep steps and any fear of heights. The vast shingle beach is perfect for exploring and collecting pebbles, just ensure children wear sturdy shoes and are supervised. 📸 Photographers & Artists
+2 Visit during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light, or embrace the moody atmosphere of a windswept day. 🚶♀️ Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
It's a crucial stop for migratory birds, making it a prime location for birdwatching. Explore the RSPB reserve and keep an eye out for various species. The unique shingle habitat also supports other wildlife, offering a chance to observe nature's resilience in an extreme environment. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Dungeness Landscape
+1 It's this very barrenness that gives Dungeness its otherworldly, almost post-apocalyptic feel, making it a magnet for artists, photographers, and those seeking a truly unique coastal experience. Despite its desert classification, Dungeness is a vital habitat for a surprising array of wildlife. It's a crucial area for insects, reptiles, and especially birds, serving as a significant stopover point for migratory species. The RSPB Dungeness National Nature Reserve is a testament to this biodiversity, offering opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating the resilience of nature in an extreme environment.
The contrast between the seemingly desolate landscape and the thriving ecosystem is one of Dungeness's most fascinating aspects.The Iconic Dungeness Lighthouses
Ascending its 169 steep steps is a memorable experience, rewarding visitors with breathtaking panoramic views across the shingle spit, the power station, and out to sea. The newer Dungeness Lighthouse, operational since 1961, stands taller and is still an active aid to navigation. While you can't climb the operational lighthouse, its presence adds to the iconic silhouette of the Dungeness coastline.
The juxtaposition of these two sentinels against the stark backdrop of the 'desert' is a photographer's dream and a key reason many visitors are drawn to this unique location. +1A Hub for Creativity and History
+1 The cottage and its surrounding garden, created in the harsh environment, embody the spirit of creativity and resilience that Dungeness inspires. The area also holds historical significance, including its connection to the Polish 303 Squadron during WWII, with a memorial marking where some of their Spitfires crashed.
The Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway adds a nostalgic charm, offering a unique way to experience the landscape. Events like NessFest, held at Dungeness Open Studios, further highlight the vibrant artistic community that thrives in this unconventional setting. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit