SS1297 : Caldey Island: St. Margaret’s Island from the ferry

St Margaret's Island

40m Elevation
40m Prominence
Wales Country
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SS1297 : Caldey Island: St. Margaret’s Island from the ferry

Chris Downer Photo source

Overview

St Margaret's Island

Overview

St Margaret's Island is a hidden gem located just off the coastal area of Kent. While technically flat, its easy access and beautiful views make it an inviting destination for walkers, families, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Geology

Formed primarily from marine deposits, this island doesn't boast towering peaks but instead offers gentle slopes and flat lands. The featherbed chalk in certain areas speaks to the geological history of the region, reminding us that even the most unassuming places have wonderful histories to tell.

Routes

The Coastal Path from St Margaret's Bay is the main route that leads you around the island. It’s an easy walk of about 4.5 km and typically takes around 1.5 hours, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll, soaking in the sunshine while dodging the occasional seagull.

Terrain

With mostly flat terrain, St Margaret's Island is easily navigable and offers a mix of grassy areas and well-maintained pathways. Perfect for a family day out, just don’t forget that your picnic blanket might catch a gust of wind!

Views

From the island, enjoy breathtaking views of the White Cliffs of Dover. On a sunny day, you might even spot France peeking through the haze. Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit, allowing you to enjoy bright vistas and blooming flowers.

Hazards

Though it’s generally safe, keep your eye on the tide if you're wandering near the water. And as tempting as it may be, staying away from cliff edges is always a good plan... unless you fancy a quick plunge!

Access

St Margaret's Bay offers a public car park, and numerous buses run from Dover for those opting for public transport. You’ll find yourself just a stone's throw away from town if you're starting your journey there.

Facilities

Facilities such as cafes and toilets are conveniently located near the bay. So, grab your sarnies, and make the day of it!

History

The island’s name likely pays homage to St Margaret of Antioch, hinting at early Christian connections in the Kent area. Historically, it has acted as a lookout point, providing a safe harborage for sailors throughout the ages.

So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and come discover the charm of St Margaret's Island. It's a lovely spot where the sea meets history, and hopefully, you finish the day with more sandwiches eaten than seagulls shooed away!

Explore routes near St Margaret's Island

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Stackpole Estate: Bosherston Lily Ponds and Lodge Park Woodland Circuit

7.8 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Neyland to Johnston: Brunel and Westfield Railway Trail

13.8 km ~3h 45m Easy

View route

Gower winter wildlife and birdwatching walk

View route

Llanelli North Dock to Machynys Point and Wetland Centre

12.2 km ~3h 30m Easy

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Coastal Path from St Margaret's Bay

A scenic walk along the coastline heading towards the eastern tip of St Margaret's Island with stunning views of the English Channel.

4.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy
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Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

0-99m hill SIB

Elevation

40m

131 ft

Prominence

40m

Coordinates

51.6429, -4.7195

SS119972

OS Map

158

Explorer: OL36E

At the Summit

The island features grassy knolls and scenic views rather than a single summit, perfect for picnicking and relaxing.

Terrain & Geology

Mostly flat with grassy areas and well-maintained pathways.

St Margaret's Island is characterized by its relatively flat land, formed from ancient marine deposits with some areas of featherbed chalk, typical of the southeast of England.

Views & Scenery

Spectacular views of the White Cliffs of Dover and the English Channel. On a clear day, the coast of France can be spotted.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'St Margaret' may derive from the old English saint, Margaret of Antioch, reflecting early Christian connections in the area.

Historical Significance

Historically, the island has been a safe haven for sailors and used for signalling and lookout due to its strategic coastal position.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

St Margaret's Bay has a public car park available to visitors.

Public Transport

Buses run frequently from Dover to St Margaret's Bay, especially during the tourist season.

Nearby Facilities

Cafes and restroom facilities are available at St Margaret's Bay. Picnic areas are also present on the island.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Visitors should be cautious of changing tides and unstable cliff edges along certain paths.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up St Margaret's Island?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around St Margaret's Island through the maps

Are there other walkers around St Margaret's Island?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for St Margaret's Island search or of course create your own walk for St Margaret's Island

Can I organise a walk to St Margaret's Island?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to St Margaret's Island.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up St Margaret's Island?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to St Margaret's Island here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

St Margaret's Island location map

Grid reference: SS119972

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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