Excursion Britain at war tour at Dover

Begin your step back in time as you journey to Ramsgate. Ramsgate was the embarkation point for the 1940 Dunkirk evacuation when 4,200 “Little Ships” left Ramsgate Harbour to rescue men from the Dunkirk beaches during World War II. On a short walking tour (starting at the entrance to Ramsgate Tunnels which sheltered 60,000 people during the war), hear how after these events 42,783 soldiers were transported from Ramsgate railway station, carried by 82 Southern Rail special trains, the second busiest station during the evacuation, next to Dover, which carried over 180,000 men moved by 327 trains. See the “Sundowner” original “Little Ship” and enjoy some free time in Royal Ramsgate Harbour.

Reboard your coach with your experienced Guide setting the scene of East Kent’s “Hellfire Corner” whilst you journey to the Spitfire Museum at RAF Manston. Dating back to the First World War and with its geographical advantage being near the English Channel, Manston was integral in providing air defence and a mounting base for subsequent operations. From September 1939 and the outbreak of the Second World War, Manston was firmly on the front line. Two years later, Manston was one of the departure points for the unsuccessful Operation Market Garden. Manston was also used as an emergency landing field for returning bombers suffering from low fuel or problems with their hydraulic systems. The airfield became something of a "graveyard" for heavy bombers.

From the Spitfire Museum, you will drive to your lunch venue, through the countryside studded with WWII “Pillbox” guard posts.  On your way, you may glimpse the Reculver Towers where Barnes Wallis tested the "bouncing bombs" used by the 617 Squadron ("The Dam Busters").   The "Jackdaw Inn", which featured in the 1969 MGM film, ‘The Battle of Britain’ starring Susannah York and Christopher Plummer will be your lunch venue. The pub itself contains a Spitfire room that has a varied collection of aviation memorabilia and photographs that represent the history of the area during the last 100 years. Enjoy lunch here before commencing your journey to your final destination, Capel-le-Ferne.

Situated high on the White Cliffs, this stirring Memorial to the heroes of the Battle of Britain has become a place of pilgrimage for anyone with an interest in the remarkable story of how the RAF changed the course of World War ll. Let the experience of the Battle come to life with “The Scramble Experience” at Capel-le-Ferne which offers an interactive and immersive experience for all ages giving a taste of what life was like for people during this time. Learn how Airships were moored there during the 1914-18 conflict and how in 1941 construction of a gun battery began before re-boarding your coach for the drive back to your waiting ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Ramsgate and tunnles, Royal Ramsgate Harbour, Spitfire Museum, Capel-le-Ferne

Note

Please note: This tour involves up to 2 miles (0.5 km - 3 km) of walking over mixed terrain, which may include steps. While some areas are wheelchair accessible, the terrain may not always be suitable for guests with limited mobility. Wheelchair users must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion, as the guide cannot assume responsibility for them during the tour. Guests are encouraged to wear light waterproof clothing and comfortable shoes.