The White Cliffs of Dover has been named one of the National Trust’s top 10 hiking routes as part of the charity’s Great British Walk 2013, starting on Sunday.

The announcement was made to coincide with the beginning of the festival which aims to encourage people to find secret spots and special stories that can only be discovered on foot at places and spaces owned by the trust.

Gareth Wiltshire, visitor experience manager for the National Trust’s White Cliffs, said: “We’re delighted that our coastline has been named a top 10 National Trust walk. We know it’s a very special place that offers something for everyone, whatever their age.

“It’s a haven for those interested in wildflowers especially rare orchids and chalk grassland species, as much as for those wanting to watch the shipping lane.

“For those wanting a bit of mystery and intrigue, smuggling has long been a feature here - look out for the man-made cut in the cliff face which appeared in 1910. It was used to collect a cargo of grand pianos from the shipwrecked SS Preussen, all of which were pulled up the cliff-side on ropes.”

To mark the top 10 status, the trust revealed its top facts about the White Cliffs, which include that it was first place to watch the sun rise in the UK during the winter months.

Also, South Foreland Lighthouse, which can only be reached on foot, is the closest point in the UK to France at just 21.5 miles away, and was the first lighthouse in the world to use an electric light

The newly-opened Mrs Knott’s Tearooms at the lighthouse is arguably the National Trust’s most photographed tea room and was voted the trust’s second favourite in 2012.