Mrs Knotts tearoom at South Foreland Lighthouse

Relive the past

The tearoom is reminiscent of the 1950’s. From its beautiful vintage wall paper to the china cups, you’ll love the welcoming feel of the tearoom, it’s like visiting nanny’s house for a cup of tea.

First, take a stroll across the two mile stretch of cliffs and admire the glorious pearly white of the lighthouse from afar.

Then, enter our quaint tearoom and admire the charming décor. Gaze into faces of the past, the pictures on the wall graciously donated by members of staff.

Now, encounter the joys of seeing an excellent array of homemade cakes. But behind it, gaze upon the wonders of china tea pots in a vast variety of sizes and colours. A mix matched assortment of china cups and plates, all decorated in floral, chintz, gold trimmed spouts, pearlescent nacreous coatings, countless shades of blues. An endless supply of beauty embellished into china. Feel at home yet?

A vintage record player sits just round the corner from the counter playing nostalgic songs from beyond 1950. It features songs by George Formby, Ray Noble and famously, Vera Lynn, The White Cliffs of Dover.

Peckish?

Homemade cakes are made by the team here and delivered over to Mrs Knotts tearoom each day. Here we show off the best of British tastes with our favourite fruit scones with cream and jam. Or delve into a traditional Victoria sponge oozing with raspberry jam.

Soup with bread and butter and fresh sandwiches are also available at the tearoom. all of which too are homemade with local produce.

A proper cuppa

At the tearoom we believe that the best brew does not come from a teabag, but from tea leaves. Use a tea strainer as you pour into a pretty little china cup specially chosen by our staff for you to appreciate.

Choose from our delightful range of teapots in which to have your brew and relax in the picturesque surroundings.

The Knott family

The tearoom was converted from a cottage, of which the former residents were the lighthouse keepers. The tearoom is named after George and Catherine Knott who were the keepers at south foreland lighthouse. They lived there with their 13 children.

Getting here

There's no direct vehicular access to the lighthouse. Parking is available at the White Cliffs of Dover visitor centre, then take a stunning 2 mile cliff top walk along the cliffs following the way-marked trail.

Parking address: The White Cliffs of Dover National Trust visitor centre, Langdon Cliffs, Upper Rd, Guston, Dover CT16 1HJ

SatNav: The White Cliffs of Dover National Trust visitor centre postcode may take you to the eastern docks ferry terminal, use CT15 5NA and turn into the car park at the sharp bend