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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Step Short Memorial Arch
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A striking steel arch on Folkestone's Leas, commemorating WWI soldiers and offering breathtaking English Channel views.
"A truly enchanting spot, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the fresh air with breathtaking panoramic views."

🌅 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Step Short Memorial Arch
The Leas, Folkestone
A striking steel arch commemorating WWI heroes, offering panoramic English Channel views.

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
The Leas
Enjoy the fresh sea air and tranquil atmosphere from the benches surrounding the arch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Accessibility and Nearby Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 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.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The arch is a popular landmark for photography, especially with coastal backdrops.
🚆 Easy Day Trip
Folkestone is a quick train ride from London, making it an ideal day trip destination.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 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.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The arch is a popular landmark for photography, especially with coastal backdrops.
🚆 Easy Day Trip
Folkestone is a quick train ride from London, making it an ideal day trip destination.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Some travelers also mention the Eurotunnel from Calais to Folkestone as a quick option if arriving from France.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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset are highly recommended for capturing the arch in beautiful light.
The steel structure can also look striking on a sunny day.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.
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.
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.
🎫 🚶♀️ 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.
Yes, there are several benches located on The Leas promenade, offering comfortable spots to sit and enjoy the views.
The Leas promenade is a flat and paved area, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The arch is a central point along this scenic walk.
The arch commemorates soldiers who passed through Folkestone during World War I. It's a tribute to their service and sacrifice.
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.
🍽️ ☕ 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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Step Short Memorial Arch
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.
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.
Experiencing Folkestone's Coastal Charm
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit