Estate Agents in Walmer

Guide to Walmer

A History of Walmer

Julius Caesar and his legions are said to have first landed on Walmer beach in 55BC. Ruins around the old St Mary's Church, in the original Walmer Village area, are linked to the Norman Conquest and the Auberville family who came with the invasion.

Following his quarrel with the Pope and fearful of invasion, Henry VIII ordered the building of the 'Three Castles which keep The Downs' - Deal, Walmer and Sandown - in 1540. In the Civil War, they were taken by Cromwell, within 13 days. Today, Walmer Castle and its beautiful formal gardens are a major attraction for visitors. The official residence of Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports since the 18th Century, the building is now an English Heritage property and features a collection of memorabilia of the Duke of Wellington, of Battle of Waterloo fame, who made Walmer his home for 23 years.

Walmer is an adjoining parish closely associated with Deal and located just 7 miles from the cross-channel port with its extensive links to Europe. Mainly residential and its own mainline railway station, minutes from Deal station, it enjoys the convenience of the links to London St Pancras and Ashford International.

Walmer’s pebble beach is essentially a continuation of Deal’s beach and whilst Deal’s beach restricts access to dogs during the summer months, Walmer welcomes dogs on its beach all year round.

Transport

By Train

Walmer Railway Station and Deal Railway Station both offer direct train services to London and other destinations.

The Deal station is the primary station and offers regular services to London Victoria (with a change at Ashford International or Faversham for faster routes) as well as to Dover and Canterbury.

Walmer Station is smaller but also connects to the same routes via Deal.

Trains to London typically take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the route and stops.

By Bus

Both towns have bus services that connect to nearby towns and cities, including Dover, Folkestone, and Canterbury.

Local buses are operated by Stagecoach and Arriva, with regular routes serving Walmer, Deal, and surrounding areas.

Cycling and Walking in Walmer

Walmer, offers some beautiful and scenic routes for both cycling and walking. Whether you're exploring the coastline or venturing through the countryside, there are many options to suit all levels of fitness and interest.

Walking in Walmer:

1. Walmer Castle and Gardens: The castle is a historic site with lovely gardens and walking paths. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds, with views of the sea and nearby countryside.
2. Dover to Deal Coastal Walk: This walk stretches from Dover to Deal, passing through Walmer. It’s a coastal route with spectacular views and a mix of cliffs, beaches, and picturesque towns along the way.
3. Walmer Beach: A lovely place for a gentle walk along the shore, with views across the English Channel. Ideal for those who want a more relaxed walking experience by the sea.
4. South Foreland Lighthouse: This walk takes you along the clifftops, offering panoramic views of the English Channel. The lighthouse itself is a popular spot for visitors.

Cycling in Walmer:

1. National Cycle Network (NCN Route 1): This cycle route runs along the coast and passes through Walmer, connecting you to nearby towns such as Deal and Dover. It offers flat terrain and stunning sea views, making it an enjoyable ride.
2. Quiet Rural Roads: The surrounding area of Walmer is perfect for cycling enthusiasts who prefer quieter roads. You can explore the Kent countryside, with its rolling hills and charming villages.
3. Deal and Sandwich Circular Routes: There are several cycle routes that start and end in Walmer, taking you through Deal, Sandwich, and back. These routes cover beautiful landscapes, historic landmarks, and coastal views.

Things to do

Walmer Castle and Gardens

Explore Walmer Castle, which is one of the official residences of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. It has a rich history, and the gardens are beautifully maintained, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll.

The castle also houses an interesting collection of military and historical artifacts. Don’t miss the Napoleon’s Garden, where it’s believed that Napoleon Bonaparte was kept under house arrest for a time.

Walmer Beach

If you enjoy coastal activities, Walmer has a lovely beach. It’s perfect for a peaceful walk, picnicking, or just relaxing by the sea. The beach is more tranquil compared to some of the busier beaches in the area.

The Strand, Walmer

Take a walk along The Strand, a lovely waterfront area offering views of the beach and the nearby cliffs. It's a great spot to see local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Dover Castle (nearby)

Just a short drive from Walmer, Dover Castle is one of England’s most iconic castles. With a history that dates back to Roman times, it offers fascinating tours, underground tunnels, and stunning views of the English Channel.

The South Foreland Lighthouse (nearby)

This lighthouse, located close to Dover, offers beautiful views of the coastline and the English Channel. It’s a great spot for history buffs and photography enthusiasts, and the lighthouse has a café for refreshments.

Walking and Cycling

The area around Walmer is ideal for walking and cycling. The nearby Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has plenty of scenic trails to explore, offering stunning views over the countryside and coast.

These are just a few suggestions for things to do in Walmer, Kent. Whether you enjoy history, nature, or just relaxing by the sea, there's something for everyone!