Welcome to the White Cliffs of Dover, one of my top five fav's from England.  Dover played an important role in English history as the point of contact with the rest of Europe.  The short, safe link to French mainland (particularly the port of Calais) was heavily used and is still used in conjunction with the Chunnel to transfer goods between England and France.  Calais was a defensible stronghold traditionally held by the English until the French regained control (late 1550's) during Mary Tudor's reign.

In more modern times, Dover was heavily fortified as the point of first contact with German air raids in World War 2.  In fact, my friend Michael and I found a bunker carved into the side of the cliffs.  It's almost eery to be in history like this.

The best part of Dover, however, is the nature.  Majestic chalk cliffs, beautiful water, French mainland visible across the channel, sweeping wheat fields, and endless hikes along the cliff ridges.  I would love to go back some day with a backpack and just wander for several days, sleeping in the abandoned bunkers and absorbing the costal serenity.

As Bev (my literature teacher explained), you only stay sane on trips to England by planning what to see next time.  There really is just too much to do and see.  The Dover trip was a great Sabbath hike after a brief pilgrimage to Canterbury on a beautiful summer day.  Highly recommended for potential visitors to England.