The dramatic Folkestone to Dover Heritage Coast lies on the Eastern most edge of the Kent Downs AONB, on the very edge of this coast lies Samphire Hoe, the newest piece of England.

Samphire Hoe was created from nearly five million cubic metres of Channel Tunnel spoil. An unpromising start perhaps, but careful landscaping and a brave ecological approach have created a place suitable for both people and wildlife.

Samphire Hoe is bound by a new mile-long sea wall, the landscape is based on the nearby natural undercliff called called the Folkestone Warren. Once landscaped the Hoe was sown with wild flower seeds collected from the nearby cliffs and chalk grasslands. From a starting point of 32 species there are now 164 different types of wild flowers and grasses growing at Samphire Hoe. Several of the colonisers are rarities, including the Early spider orchid. The Hoe has also proved to be attractive to butterflies and moths, dragonflies and birds.

Throughout the year the colours of the site change as Kidney vetch, then Restharrow or Rock sea lavender dominate. Even in winter the dramatic position and varied light conditions create an intricate endlessly changing scene.

Samphire Hoe is open to the public every day of the year, for a small parking fee you can enjoy this most outstanding fringe of the Kent Downs AONB.

Samphire Hoe is owned by Eurotunnel and is managed in partnership with the White Cliffs Countryside Project (WCCP). If you would like a free leaflet about the site or would like to find out about the events that are run at Samphire Hoe or throughout the WCCP area please contact the project office at 6 Cambridge Terrace, Dover, Kent, CT16 1JT. Tel/fax. 01304 241806