Discover Dover Castle | A Visitor's Introduction to Dover Castle

Why Visit Dover Castle?

Dover Castle is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, military buffs, and families alike. Its stunning location on the cliffs provides panoramic views of the English Channel, and its vast grounds are filled with centuries-old fortifications, towers, and tunnels. The castle’s historical significance, from medieval times to its role as a key defensive position during both World Wars, makes it one of the most important castles in England. Whether you’re interested in the medieval history of knights and kings, the engineering of the secret wartime tunnels, or just the breathtaking views, Dover Castle has something to offer everyone.

Dover Castle Highlights

1. The Great Tower: The heart of Dover Castle is the Great Tower, built by King Henry II in the late 12th century. This massive keep was designed as both a fortress and a royal palace, reflecting the power and prestige of the medieval monarchy. Visitors can explore the elaborately decorated interiors, recreated to reflect how the royal court would have lived in the 12th century, complete with colourful tapestries, lavish furniture, and medieval weaponry. From the battlements of the tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views over the English Channel and the surrounding countryside.

2. Medieval Tunnels: Beneath the castle lies a complex network of medieval tunnels, originally built during the Middle Ages for defence and as a means of communication between different parts of the fortress. Visitors can explore these atmospheric passages and learn about their role in the defense of the castle during sieges. The tunnels were expanded and repurposed throughout the castle's history, notably during the Napoleonic Wars and World War II.

3. Secret Wartime Tunnels: Dover Castle played a crucial role during World War II, and the extensive network of tunnels beneath the cliffs became the nerve centre for operations, including the famous Dunkirk evacuation in 1940. The Secret Wartime Tunnels tour takes visitors into these underground chambers, where they can see rooms restored to their wartime appearance, complete with communication equipment, bunk beds, and medical facilities. The tour includes an immersive audiovisual experience that brings to life the dramatic events of Operation Dynamo, which saw the evacuation of over 300,000 Allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk.

4. The Underground Hospital: One of the most fascinating sections of the wartime tunnels is the underground hospital, where injured soldiers were treated during World War II. The dimly lit rooms and realistic sound effects recreate the tense and urgent atmosphere of a wartime medical facility. Visitors can walk through the operating room, wards, and staff quarters, gaining an insight into the challenges faced by doctors and nurses working under the constant threat of enemy attack.

5. The Roman Lighthouse (Pharos): Dover Castle's history stretches back long before the medieval period. One of the oldest surviving structures on the site is the Roman lighthouse, or Pharos, which dates back to the 1st century AD. Built by the Romans to guide ships across the Channel, it is one of only a few remaining Roman lighthouses in the world. Visitors can see the ruins of this remarkable structure, which stands next to the 10th-century Anglo-Saxon church of St Mary-in-Castro, adding another layer to Dover Castle’s rich historical tapestry.

6. The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment Museum: This museum, located within the castle grounds, offers a deep dive into the history of one of Britain’s oldest infantry regiments, the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment. The museum houses an impressive collection of military artifacts, including uniforms, weapons, medals, and documents. It provides a fascinating look at the regiment's role in conflicts from the Napoleonic Wars to the present day.

7. The Battlements Walk: Dover Castle’s battlements offer visitors a chance to walk along the castle’s defensive walls and take in stunning views of the surrounding area. The walk provides an excellent perspective of how the castle’s defenses were designed to repel invaders, with its high walls, towers, and the cliffside position that made it virtually impregnable during its medieval heyday. On clear days, the coast of France is visible across the English Channel.

8. St. Mary-in-Castro Church: Within the castle grounds lies the ancient St. Mary-in-Castro Church, built in the 10th century and still used for services today. The church, alongside the Roman Pharos, provides an interesting contrast between different historical periods. The church has been beautifully restored and offers a peaceful space to reflect amidst the castle’s busy history.

9. Falconry Displays and Medieval Re-enactments: Dover Castle offers a range of live events and demonstrations throughout the year, which bring history to life in an engaging and family-friendly way. Among the most popular attractions are the falconry displays, where visitors can watch trained birds of prey perform spectacular aerial feats. Medieval re-enactments, including jousting tournaments and siege warfare demonstrations, are also staged during peak seasons, offering a dynamic glimpse into the lives of knights and soldiers.

10. The Wartime Command Centre: In addition to the underground wartime tunnels, Dover Castle was home to a command centre that oversaw the defense of Britain during World War I. Visitors can see the recreated operations rooms, complete with period maps, radio equipment, and authentic furnishings, offering an insight into the planning and strategy that took place here.

Dover Castle Facilities

Café and Tea Rooms: The on-site café serves a selection of hot meals, snacks, and drinks. Visitors can enjoy traditional English fare while overlooking the castle grounds or relax with afternoon tea at the NAAFI restaurant, which is located in the former canteen for wartime soldiers.
  
Gift Shop: The castle’s gift shop offers a wide range of souvenirs, including historical books, toys, and replica medieval weaponry. Visitors can also purchase locally made goods and keepsakes to remember their visit.

Accessibility: Dover Castle is accessible to visitors with disabilities, with lifts to some areas, ramps, and accessible toilets available. However, due to the historic nature of the site, certain parts of the castle, including the underground tunnels, may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Parking: There is ample parking on-site for visitors arriving by car. The car park is located a short walk from the castle entrance, with accessible parking spaces available near the visitor centre.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: Dover Castle is open year-round, although opening times vary by season. The castle typically opens between 9:30 am and 10:00 am and closes between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm, depending on the time of year. It’s recommended to check the English Heritage website for up-to-date opening hours and special event schedules.

Admission: Admission fees apply for entry to Dover Castle, with discounts available for children, seniors, and English Heritage members. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, and it’s advisable to book ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Getting There: Dover Castle is easily accessible by car, located just off the A2 and A20 highways. It is also well-served by public transport, with Dover Priory railway station just a short taxi or bus ride away. Regular train services connect Dover with London and other major cities in the region.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to exploring Dover Castle, visitors can discover several nearby attractions in the surrounding area:

The White Cliffs of Dover: Just a short walk from the castle, the famous White Cliffs offer stunning coastal walks and breathtaking views across the English Channel. The National Trust Visitor Centre provides information about the natural history of the cliffs.

Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery: Located in the town centre, Dover Museum explores the town’s maritime and military history, with exhibits ranging from prehistoric finds to the famous Bronze Age boat, the world’s oldest known seagoing vessel.

Samphire Hoe: Created from the spoil of the Channel Tunnel, this nature reserve offers walking trails and wildlife spotting, providing a tranquil contrast to the historic site of Dover Castle.