23/06/2026
🎉 TODAY WE ENTER OUR 40TH YEAR 🎉
Thirty-nine steps completed… and now we begin the next chapter.
39 years ago, with humble beginnings, long hours, determination, and four children in tow, Ian and Linda Dunkerley took a leap of faith and opened Dunkerley’s from the old Pegasus Café.
Ten years later came another leap forward with the acquisition of the old Pier Hotel, helping shape the Dunkerley’s so many know and love today.
Over the years we’ve weathered storms…literally and figuratively. From the Great Storm of 1987 to recessions, changing times, and the challenges of COVID, we’ve continued thanks to the support of our incredible staff, loyal customers, friends, family, and local community.
We’ve welcomed guests from across the world, built lifelong friendships, trained and supported generations of staff, and watched many go on to successful careers of their own. Today, we’re proud that the family story continues, with Ben leading our kitchen and helping shape the future of the business.
We are incredibly grateful to the local organisations, clubs and businesses that have been part of our journey, including our local golf communities, The Rotary Club, Martha Trust, Beach Street Square businesses, and so many others who have supported us along the way.
“The 39 Steps” may be a famous film, but our 39 steps have been a journey of hard work, resilience, friendships, laughter, challenges, and unforgettable memories.
To every customer who has dined with us, stayed with us, celebrated with us, worked alongside us, or simply cheered us on from afar:
❤️ Thank you.
Here’s to our 40th year… and counting.
The Dunkerley Family
🥂
Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club Royal St. George's Golf Club Prince's Deal and Walmer Chamber of Trade Deal Radio & HQ East Kent Mercury Jenkins & Son Fishmongers Time & Tide Brewing The Kings Head, Deal Astor Theatre The Port Arms
