The New International Encyclopædia/Downs, The

DOWNS, The. An important English roadstead or shelter for shipping off the southeast coast of Kent, opposite Ramsgate and Deal, between North and South Foreland (Map: England, H 5). It is protected externally by the Goodwin Sands, a natural breakwater with one to four fathoms of water, and often partly dry at low tide. It is resorted to temporarily by outward and homeward bound vessels and by naval squadrons, and is unsafe only in south winds. It is defended by Deal, Dover, and Sandown castles. The Downs were the scene of a victory of the Dutch over the Spaniards in 1639, and of a great naval battle between the Dutch and English in 1666.