Alison Neighbour with Gemma Riggs, Élodie Merland & Sébastien Cabour
Journey through the Deep Time of the chalk cliffs at their closest point across the Channel.
The Chalk Path/Le Chemin de Craie is a bilingual self-guided audio walk through Folkestone Warren and Cap Blanc Nez that invites you to walk down through deep time, to reflect on the past and reimagine the future, considering the enormity of time and it's relationship to our own human existence and impact.
Collect a map and tune into the sound of the rocks and let them be your guide: Search for an ancestor on the beach, and consider what layer you wish to leave beyond your own lifetime. Why not visit both sides and experience the whole story? Perhaps your journey will be shared by a walker on the other side, looking across, seeking a connection that transcends human experience.
Maps are available from Folkestone Urban Room, East Cliff NCI station, Maison de Site de Deux Caps, and Escalle Cabinalivre.
You will need a smartphone with geolocation and headphones to access the audio, or you can borrow an MP3 player and headphones from Urban Room for a lo-tech version of the audio. Large print maps are available at Kollectiv.
You can make the journey at any time you like in daylight hours, it will take around an hour. Some of the terrain is steep and can be slippery - please wear appropriate shoes. There are also some steps and kissing gates. We recommend to go with a friend and to make the journey at low tide.
Accessibility: The walks are approximately 1.5 miles over terrain that can be uneven and slippery, with several short but steep gradients and steps. Unfortunately the routes are not accessible for wheelchair users. If you cannot access the walking route in the UK you are welcome to borrow an audio device from Kollectiv, Folkestone and choose a spot facing the sea to enjoy the listening experience. Large format maps will also be available from Kollectiv, along with additional information about the route and the terrain.
