Deal

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History

Deal is a limb of Sandwich and its motto is “befriend the stranger”.  Lacking a harbour, Deal had the benefit of the Downs Anchorage, the stretch of water between the shore and the Goodwin Sands.  The town rapidly rose to prosperity as the local boatmen earned a profitable livelihood from servicing naval and merchant ships which anchored there.  During the 18th and 19th Centuries the Sandwich Haven silted up.  Today Deal is a popular summer holiday resort.

Deal was first mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086, and by the 16th century it was a major port for shipping and shipbuilding. Deal was also a strategic location during the English Civil War, and it was the site of several battles.

In the 18th century, Deal became a popular resort for smugglers, who took advantage of its proximity to the French coast. The town’s history as a smuggling hub is still evident today, with many stories and legends about the smugglers still being told.

Did you know?
Deal Pier opened in 1957 and is 1026 feet long. It was the last
pleasure pier to be constructed in Britain.

Deal’s Timeball Tower is one of only 4 working in the world.

Lord Nelson stayed at the Royal Hotel with Emma Hamilton.

Attractions

Today, Deal is a popular tourist destination, known for its beaches, its historic buildings, and its maritime heritage. Some of the most popular attractions in Deal include:

    • Deal Castle: This Tudor castle was built by Henry VIII in the 16th century to defend England from invasion. The castle is now a popular tourist attraction, and it offers stunning views of the English Channel.
    • Walmer Castle: This 16th century castle was also built by Henry VIII. It is now the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, and it is open to the public for tours.
    • Deal Timeball Tower: This tower was built in 1855 to help ships navigate the Goodwin Sands. The timeball is still raised at 1pm every day, and it is a popular tourist attraction.Deal Timeball Tower: This tower was built in 1855 to help ships navigate the Goodwin Sands. The timeball is still raised at 1pm every day, and it is a popular tourist attraction.
    • Deal Beach: Deal Beach is a long pebble beach that is popular with tourists and locals alike. 
    • Fan Bay Deep Shelter: This World War II bunker is located on the cliffs near Deal. The bunker was used to protect troops from German bombing raids. It is now open to the public for tours.
    • White Cliffs of Dover: The White Cliffs of Dover are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that are located just a few miles from Deal. The cliffs are a popular tourist attraction, and they offer stunning views of the English Channel and France.

These are just a few of the many attractions that can be found in Deal. The town has a rich history and a variety of things to see and do, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

Information

Tourist information: Deal in White Cliffs Country
Town council website: Home Page – Deal Town Council
T: 01304 361999

© Confederation of the Cinque Ports