Foreness Point facts for kids

Foreness Point as seen from Botany Bay. This picture was taken when the tide was low.

Foreness Point is a small piece of land that sticks out into the sea in Kent, England. It's located on the northern coast of an area called Thanet, right where the big Thames Estuary begins. You can find it between two popular bays: Palm Bay in Cliftonville and Botany Bay in Broadstairs.

When the tide is low, a rocky reef called Long Nose Spit appears off Foreness Point. People often visit this spot to collect small sea snails called common periwinkles, which are eaten as food. There is also a water treatment plant located on the headland.

History of Foreness Point

Shipwrecks at Foreness

Foreness Point has been the site of several shipwrecks over the years. The strong currents and hidden reefs can make sailing tricky.

• In 1857, a large passenger ship named the Northern Belle was wrecked near the point.
• In 1907, the Norwegian ship Coronel got stuck on the rocks. Luckily, it was later pulled free and could sail again.
• In 1934, a British ship called Orchis also ran aground. Like the Coronel, it was successfully refloated and returned to service.

Foreness Point in World War II

During the Second World War, Foreness Point played an important role in defending Britain. A special radar station was built there. This station was part of a system called Chain Home Low. It helped detect low-flying enemy aircraft approaching the coast.