Features
Learn about the uses that flint and chalk have been put to, take the plunge with cross-Channel swimmers, and find out how the soil of southern England is contributing to a renaissance in winemaking
There'll be Bluebirds Over…
The White Cliffs of Dover have appeared in films, poetry and writing and, of course, they inspired a rather famous wartime song…
Flint from the Chalk
Walking over the rolling chalk downland, you sometimes come across groups of small hollows and rough mounds. These are the remains of prehistoric flint mines, where our ancestors tunnelled through the soft chalk to get at the seams of good-quality flint which they needed for their tools.
English Sparkling Wines
One of the big success stories of the English wine industry in recent years has been the production of quality fizz. This is no accident when you consider that much of the vineyard land in the south of England is planted on the same soil type, and enjoys the same climate, as its rather more illustrious neighbour across the Channel.
Interview: Channel Swimmer Julie Bradshaw MBE
Awarded an MBE for services to swimming and charity, Julie Bradshaw first swam the Channel when she was just 15. She spoke to ICONS about what the stretch of water means to her.
A Place in History
You’re sitting atop the White Cliffs of Dover – on a rock, perhaps. There’s a slightly dizzy-making drop, but the view is stunning – down from the green top to the rocks and shingle below, the crashing waves, and then out over the waters towards France. On a clear day you can see their coast from ours.
Ten things…
Here are some weird and wonderful facts about Dover and the White Cliffs - how many do you know?
