This 9km section from Sandwich village to Deal is completely flat, with little but views between the two.

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History of the area

Sandwich was first documented in 664 - when it was a Saxon stronghold - and has had a varied history. The traditional medieval town was once a major port in the 11-13th centuries, and was included in the Confederation of Cinque Ports (more info here). The wealth of the town led to a series of invasions, from the Danes and Vikings to the French. In the 1380s, walls were constructed on the orders of Richard II to encircle the town to protect it from attack. This still didn't deter the French, who launched a major assault in 1457, leaving Sandwich in a very poor state.

What was regarded as the fourth town in importance and size in the Domesday book (behind London, Norwich and Ipswich) fell into decline. The Great Storm of 1287 began the process of silting the harbours and rivers around Thanet, and by 1500 the port was seriously deteriorating. In the 1560s, Protestants fleeing Europe settled, built dykes and brought trades, and Sandwich became a peaceful market town. In the early 17th century, people embarked at Sandwich to emigrate to Virginia, New England, and in 1847 the railway was built.

The town is now 2 miles from the sea and prospers as a result of tourism and the nearby industrial estates which include Pfizer. While the town itself is home to around 4500 people, this is still outnumbered by the pharmaceutical giant. The town walls no longer stand, but a lot of original architecture remains, including the Barbican gate (built 1536) and toll bridge (1892). In place of the port, 2 world-class golf courses now exist: Royal St Georges - which holds the Open Championship about every 10 years; and Princes - an Open Championship Final Qualifying course.

The walk

This section begins with a picturesque walk out of Sandwich along the path of the old city wall, and next to a stream. After following this and some careful navigation, the Royal St Georges golf course is crossed and the sea reached. Easy walking along either the beach or road leads to the Sandwich Bay estate, with its impressive mansions. The remaining 3km is on a stony path alongside the Royal Cinque Ports golf course, across the Lydden Valley. The remains of Sandown Castle mark the entrance to Deal, and a short walk along the seafront to the pier.

View across the marshes to Pfizer
The East side of site (pictured) contains manufacturing and development
Sandwich Bay
The shallow beach gradient is popular with kitesurfers
Sandwich Bay estate
Sandwich Bay S&WSC (sailing club)
Royal Cinque Ports Golf Links
Remains of Sandown Castle
HM Coastguard, Deal
Deal Rowing Club
Deal Angling Club

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