An unforgettable day for the Cross-Channel Geopark and its Geoambassadors!

Who are the Geo Ambassadors?

Geoambassadors are guides, nature activity leaders, or members of tourist offices trained in geology within the Cross-Channel Geopark. Their role is vital in sharing geological knowledge and raising public awareness. Thanks to their dedication, these enthusiasts help to highlight geosites and lead engaging educational activities. To support them in this mission, the Cross-Channel Geopark also provides tailored educational tools to help make geology more accessible and engaging during guided visits and workshops. 

The Day’s Programme 

The day began with a Shuttle crossing, made possible thanks to our partnership with Eurotunnel. It was a first-time experience for many Geoambassadors and a unique opportunity to travel beneath the sea! 

First Stop: Devil’s Kneading Trough

The group kicked off the day by exploring the Devil’s Kneading Trough, a stunning chalk valley, very similar to those found on the French side. Our colleagues from the Kent Downs National Landscape were joined by Alfie Gay, from White Cliffs Countryside Partnership (a Geopark Partner), to give insights into how these landscapes were formed, highlighting the links between local geology and biodiversity — the site is home to rare chalk grasslands, a protected habitat that supports species such as orchids and butterflies. 

Second stop: Samphire Hoe and the White Cliffs

The group continued with a visit to Samphire Hoe, an iconic site on the English side of the Cross-Channel Geopark, created from the spoil of the British side of the Channel Tunnel. This site, owned by Eurotunnel and managed by White Cliffs Countryside Partnership, is a perfect blend of geology and biodiversity, and hosted a friendly lunch break featuring British specialties (scones, sausage rolls, and more!) and a performance of geopoetry. 

Third stop: White Cliffs of Dover

The day concluded with a visit to the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover, where the geoambassadors discovered the secrets of chalk and the emblematic species that inhabit the cliffs, thanks to fascinating explanations from Melanie Wrigley, a cliff ecology specialist with the National Trust. 

Towards UNESCO Global Geopark status

The Cross-Channel Geopark aims to become the first UNESCO Global Geopark shared by two countries without a land border — a world-first model! This prestigious, internationally recognised label highlights not only the geological importance of the sites but also the deep connections between landscapes, local communities, and their shared heritage. The Geopark celebrates the common geological legacy of Kent in England and Pas-de-Calais in France through key sites that bear witness to important geological processes. In this spirit of sharing and preservation, the geoambassadors meet and strengthen their commitment to passing on this wealth of geological knowledge. 

Meet the Cross-Channel Geopark’s Geoambassadors and Explore Their Activities 

Find out more about our geoambassadors: Business | Cross-Channel Geopark

Discover upcoming activities: Events | Cross-Channel Geopark