Dover, Kent, England, United Kingdom

Shakespeare Beach

Shakespeare Beach is a shingle beach situated in Shakespeare Bay, Dover, Kent, UK. The beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, providing a lengthy stretch of shingles for relaxation. In 2015, a storm destroyed the seawall, but it has since been reopened.

What is unique about this beach is that it is the shortest distance between the UK and France, making it a popular location for swimming across the Channel. Accessing the beach requires climbing over 100 steps or walking from the western side of the port near Dover Marina.

During low tide, visitors can explore the deep rock pools on the beach. Dogs are permitted on the beach year-round, making it an ideal place to take your furry companions.

Discover ideal places to stay near Shakespeare Beach and experience the thrill of being just a swim away from France.

However, visitors should be aware that there are no litter facilities and no on-site parking, so they must rely on on-street parking in Aycliffe.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the lovely secluded pebble beach with great views, perfect for a quiet walk or to run dogs or kids around. However, visitors complain about the dirty path to get there, with dog poo and cans scattered along the way. The beach is also described as a bit grim under the subway.

Where to Stay near Shakespeare Beach?

Visitors to Shakespeare Beach often stay in the town of Dover, which offers a range of accommodations and easy access to the beach and other attractions like Dover Castle. Many also choose to stay in the nearby town of Folkestone, known for its vibrant arts scene and coastal charm, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is Shakespeare Beach?

Latitude: 51.112777 / Longitude: 1.2987424

Shakespeare Beach is located in Dover. The following map of Shakespeare Beach shows the exact location.


Nearby destinations:

Shakespeare Beach: Weather Today

📅 Friday, July 31, 2026
Today at Shakespeare Beach is an average day for those heading to the coast, though it may feel a bit restless at times. You can expect a mix of sun and clouds throughout the afternoon, with a maximum air temperature reaching 22 °C. The sea temperature is 21.2 °C, making it just comfortable enough for a quick dip if you are feeling brave. Be aware that conditions are quite breezy, with wind and stronger gusts periodically sweeping across the sand, which might make staying on a towel a bit challenging. The waves remain calm and gentle, providing a peaceful backdrop to your visit. While there is a slight chance of a light shower, it is unlikely to ruin your plans. It is a reasonable day for a walk or a coastal stroll, even if it is not perfect sunbathing weather.
🌬️

Air

Low / High17.7°C/22°C
Feels Like (High)21.1°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature21.2 °C
Wave Height0.4 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance25%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:18/20:44
Sunshine Hours7.8 hrs
UV Index2.8
Cloud Cover56%
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Wind

Speed19.1 km/h
Gusts34.6 km/h
DirectionNE

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