International Marconi Day at South Foreland Lighthouse
Celebrate Guglielmo Marconi's 152nd birthday with Dover Amateur Radio Club here at South Foreland Lighthouse. There will be demonstrations of national and international radio messaging, and you'll be able to find out more about amateur radio.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
South Foreland Lighthouse was the site of the World's first ship-to-shore radio communication in December 1898, when a signal sent from East Goodwin Lightship was received by Guglielmo Marconi at South Foreland. Join Dover Amateur Radio Club here at South Foreland Lighthouse to celebrate Marconi's 152nd birthday. The club will have its transmitting and receiving equipment set up, and you'll be able to witness radio messages being sent and received in real time. Depending on the weather and atmospheric conditions, you could hear messages from thousands of miles away. Club members will be on hand to explain how the equipment works, and they will conduct demonstrations throughout the day.
Times
The basics
- Suitability
Supervised children are welcome
- Meeting point
Please park at the National Trust White Cliffs of Dover car park and walk over to South Foreland Lighthouse. Meet outside the Marconi Hut in the grounds of the Lighthouse.
- What to bring and wear
The weather can change suddenly on the cliffs, so please listen to the weather forecast and dress appropriately. We recommend stout shoes with closed toes for the walk.
- Accessibility
The demonstration will take place at the Marconi Hut in the grounds of South Foreland Lighthouse. There is one shallow step up into the hut.
- Other
Entry to the radio demonstration is free. Normal parking charges apply - National Trust members can park for free. No booking is required, just turn up. In the event of high winds, the large aerials required may not be able to be erected, and the event may be cancelled. Please check our website and Facebook page before travelling. Dogs are welcome in the grounds - registered assistance dogs only in any buildings, please. Refreshments are available in Mrs Knott's Tearoom and in the Lighthouse shop. While you're there, why not treat yourself to a guided tour around our Victorian lighthouse? The lighthouse will be open throughout the day - tours by timed ticket available from the lighthouse shop. Tickets are free for National Trust members.
Upcoming events
Lacemaking Demonstrations at South Foreland Lighthouse
Ever wondered how fine lace was made? Well, now is your chance to find out. As part of the Lace Guild's Golden Anniversary, Cantium Lacemakers will be running demonstrations throughout the two-day event. See how it's done - and try for yourself.