Step Short Memorial Arch
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Step Short Memorial Arch

4.5
·265 reviews·, United Kingdom

A striking steel arch on Folkestone's Leas, commemorating WWI soldiers and offering breathtaking English Channel views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdLow
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Step Short Memorial Arch

Step Short Memorial Arch

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A striking steel arch on Folkestone's Leas, commemorating WWI soldiers and offering breathtaking English Channel views.

4.5
(265 reviews)

"A truly enchanting spot, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the fresh air with breathtaking panoramic views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour

Visit at sunrise or sunset for stunning light on the arch and sea views.

🚶‍♀️ Stroll The Leas

Enjoy a walk along the promenade with benches for relaxing and taking in the scenery.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Step Short Memorial Arch

The Step Short Memorial Arch

The Leas, Folkestone

A striking steel arch commemorating WWI heroes, offering panoramic English Channel views.

Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles

Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles

The Leas

Witness the arch bathed in the warm glow of dawn or dusk, creating unforgettable coastal vistas.

Relaxing Seafront Promenade

Relaxing Seafront Promenade

The Leas

Enjoy the fresh sea air and tranquil atmosphere from the benches surrounding the arch.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

The Step Short Memorial Arch is stunning at sunrise and sunset, offering breathtaking sea views. Consider visiting during these golden hours for the most picturesque experience. Early mornings or late afternoons can also offer a more peaceful atmosphere away from potential daytime crowds.

Accessibility and Nearby Attractions

Located on The Leas, the arch is easily accessible and offers lovely sea views. It's a great spot to relax with benches nearby. Folkestone's high street and beach are also within walking distance, making it a perfect stop on a day trip.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Peaceful sea breeze
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Sunny strolls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The easiest place to get to & the prettiest seaside village!!! A quick train to 📍 Folkestone, Kent #daytrip #london #thingstodo #uk #travel #england #kent #fyp
@laurenhendy
44.8K likes • 775.8K views

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour

Visit at sunrise or sunset for stunning light on the arch and sea views. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Stroll The Leas

Enjoy a walk along the promenade with benches for relaxing and taking in the scenery. Reddit

Eurotunnel La traversée vers l'Angleterre depuis la France, la plus rapide, le Tunnel longe sous la Manche. Au départ de Calais, la compagnie Eurotunnel vous propose, en 35min, de rejoindre le port de Folkestone. Les départs sont très fréquents, jusqu'à 4 par heure. #eurotunnel #londres #londres🇬🇧 #calais #folkestone #eurotunnel🚇 #eurotunnelfreight #roadtrip #eurotunel #unitedkingdom #triptolond...
@wadmakeup
42K likes • 1.8M views
My Morning View #folkestone #stepshort #memorialarch #warheroes #theleas #reflection #sunrise_sunset_photogroup #sunrise #sunrisephotography #morning #morningmotivation #morningvibes #heroes #clouds #skystagram #folkestonetriennial #folkestonekent #folkestoneparkrun #stepshortarch @eastcliffcreatives @eastcliffshop @realleascliff @flpfolkestone @liveat_theleas @folkestone_all_things @cliftonhotelu...
my_morning_view_folkestone
181 likes • 0 views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The arch is a popular landmark for photography, especially with coastal backdrops. Instagram+1

🚆 Easy Day Trip

Folkestone is a quick train ride from London, making it an ideal day trip destination. TikTok

What an amazing sunset view of Folkestone's Step Short arch 🌅 A pretty wet start to the first week of July – here's hoping the sun stays out a little longer for the rest of the month! ☀️ 📸 Thanks @whitecliffsphotography for the fantastic photo! . . . . #FHThePlace #Home #PhotoOfTheDay Posted @withregram • @whitecliffsphotography Step Short Memorial Arch Folkstone. . . . #agameoftones #folksto...
folkestonehythedc
122 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour

Visit at sunrise or sunset for stunning light on the arch and sea views. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Stroll The Leas

Enjoy a walk along the promenade with benches for relaxing and taking in the scenery. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The arch is a popular landmark for photography, especially with coastal backdrops. Instagram+1

🚆 Easy Day Trip

Folkestone is a quick train ride from London, making it an ideal day trip destination. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(265 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Step Short Memorial Arch as a beautiful and significant landmark on Folkestone's Leas, offering lovely sea views and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and reflection. It's considered a must-visit for its historical importance and scenic location, perfect for walks and photography.

"A remembrance monument for WWI. It's steel made so you can see this shiny arch from the far in sunny day.

It's a lovely place to walk and enjoy the sea views. Located near by the high street, this place is ideal to relax. Couple of benches around to sit and have a beautiful view of sea as well as enjoy your tea or coffee."

UK Photo Journey

"This is a truly enchanting spot, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the fresh air. The panoramic views are breathtaking, making it a must-visit destination. Whether you're on your own, with friends, or taking your furry companion for a walk, you'll be captivated by the beauty of this place. And don't forget to keep an eye out for the birds soaring overhead!"

USIF

"Distinctive metal arch commemorating military veterans. One of Folkestone's most recognisable landmarks and a popular local meeting place. There's seating and an information board provided to explain the monument's story."

Andrew Thomas

What People Like

Beautiful sea views
Peaceful atmosphere
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Can be windy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is by train from London to Folkestone Central station, which takes about an hour. From the station, it's a short walk to The Leas where the arch is located. TikTok Some travelers also mention the Eurotunnel from Calais to Folkestone as a quick option if arriving from France. TikTok

Yes, Folkestone is accessible by car via the M20 motorway. There are car parks available near The Leas, though availability can vary, especially during peak times.

Absolutely! The arch is situated on The Leas, which is a pleasant promenade easily reachable from Folkestone's high street and town center. It's a lovely walk with sea views. Reddit

Local buses serve the Folkestone area, and many routes will stop near The Leas, making it convenient to reach the arch via public transport within Folkestone.

Walking along The Leas promenade is highly recommended for enjoying the sea views and accessing landmarks like the Step Short Memorial Arch. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Step Short Memorial Arch is a public monument located on The Leas promenade, and there is no admission fee. You can visit it freely at any time. Reddit

As an outdoor monument on a public promenade, the arch is accessible 24/7. However, the best experience is during daylight hours for views and safety. Instagram+1

The Leas is a public park and promenade, so there is no charge to enter or walk around. Enjoy the open space and sea air freely.

While there aren't specific guided tours for the arch itself, information boards are often present to explain its history. Local historical societies might offer walking tours of Folkestone that include the arch. Reddit

Yes, you can visit the arch in any weather. However, be prepared for wind and rain, especially near the coast. Some find the arch particularly atmospheric after rain. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Sunrise and sunset are highly recommended for capturing the arch in beautiful light. Instagram+2 The steel structure can also look striking on a sunny day. Reddit

You can capture the arch itself, panoramic sea views, and the surrounding promenade. It's also a great spot for portraits with a scenic backdrop. Instagram+1

Experiment with different angles from The Leas. Getting closer to the arch or stepping back to include the sea and sky can yield great results. Instagram+1

Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with Folkestone & Hythe District Council or relevant authorities before flying a drone in the area.

Sunny days offer bright, clear shots. Overcast or post-rain conditions can create dramatic skies and reflections, adding a unique mood to your photos. Instagram+1

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

You can relax on the benches, enjoy the sea views, and read the information board about the arch's history. It's also a starting point for walks along The Leas. Reddit

Yes, there are several benches located on The Leas promenade, offering comfortable spots to sit and enjoy the views. Reddit

The Leas promenade is a flat and paved area, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The arch is a central point along this scenic walk. Reddit

The arch commemorates soldiers who passed through Folkestone during World War I. It's a tribute to their service and sacrifice. InstagramReddit

Dogs are generally welcome on The Leas promenade, but it's always good practice to keep them on a lead and clean up after them. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, Folkestone's high street is a short walk away and offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs. You can also find options along the seafront. TikTok

The Leas is a public green space, making it a suitable spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food and enjoy it with a sea view. Reddit

Several establishments along The Leas and the seafront offer sea views, perfect for enjoying a coffee or a meal while taking in the scenery.

Folkestone offers a diverse range of dining, from traditional British pubs to international cuisine, seafood, and casual cafes. TikTok

Yes, many eateries in Folkestone offer takeaway options, allowing you to enjoy your meal on one of the benches by the Step Short Memorial Arch. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Step Short Memorial Arch and The Leas offer a great open space for families. Kids can enjoy running around on the grass, and the sea views provide a pleasant backdrop. There are benches for parents to rest while keeping an eye on children. The historical aspect of the arch can also be a gentle introduction to local history. Reddit

Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on The Leas, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable outing. The proximity to Folkestone's town center means easy access to amenities like cafes and public restrooms, which is always a plus when traveling with children. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers, the Step Short Memorial Arch offers a peaceful spot for reflection and enjoying the coastal scenery. It's a safe and accessible location for a quiet walk or to simply sit and contemplate. Reddit The benches provide a comfortable place to read or people-watch. Reddit

Couples will find The Leas a romantic setting, especially during sunrise or sunset, offering beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s an ideal location for a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand, followed by exploring Folkestone's charming town center or enjoying a meal at one of the local restaurants. Instagram+2

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Step Short Memorial Arch is a photographer's delight, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The steel structure catches the light beautifully, and the panoramic sea views provide a stunning backdrop. Instagram+3

Experiment with different compositions, including wide shots that capture the arch with the sea and sky, or closer shots that highlight the architectural details. The changing weather conditions can also offer unique photographic opportunities, from dramatic skies to atmospheric post-rain scenes. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Step Short Memorial Arch

The Step Short Memorial Arch stands as a poignant tribute to the soldiers who passed through Folkestone during World War I. This distinctive steel archway is more than just a landmark; it's a symbol of remembrance and sacrifice. It commemorates the thousands of troops who embarked on their journey to the Western Front from this very spot, making Folkestone a crucial embarkation point during the war. The arch serves as a constant reminder of their bravery and the profound impact of the conflict on the local community and the nation. InstagramReddit

Constructed from steel, the arch is designed to be visually striking, particularly on a sunny day when its metallic surface gleams. Its placement on The Leas, a beautiful clifftop promenade, offers visitors not only a place for reflection but also stunning panoramic views of the English Channel. This combination of historical significance and scenic beauty makes the Step Short Memorial Arch a unique and moving destination. Instagram+1

Visitors often find an information board near the arch that details its history and the stories of the soldiers it honors. This adds a layer of depth to the experience, allowing people to connect more personally with the memorial's purpose. It’s a place that encourages contemplation and a moment to pause and remember those who served. Reddit

Experiencing Folkestone's Coastal Charm

The Step Short Memorial Arch is nestled on The Leas, Folkestone's expansive clifftop promenade. This area is a beloved local spot, offering a refreshing escape with its open green spaces and breathtaking sea views. The promenade itself is perfect for leisurely walks, whether you're seeking a peaceful morning stroll or a romantic sunset experience. Instagram+2

Surrounding the arch, you'll find ample seating, making it an ideal place to relax, enjoy a coffee, or have a picnic while taking in the coastal scenery. The fresh sea air and the sound of the waves contribute to a tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to unwind. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that frequents the area. Reddit

Folkestone itself offers more to explore, with its vibrant Creative Quarter, high street shops, and the beach accessible from The Leas. The Step Short Memorial Arch serves as a central point, connecting you to the town's heritage and its natural beauty. It’s a destination that combines historical reflection with the simple pleasures of a seaside town. TikTokReddit

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