Dover Castle, England

Dover Castle is the oldest fort in England and has been strategic in the country's defence even up to and including WW1 and WW2. Originally strengthened from an Anglo-Saxon fort in 1066 by William the Conqueror with futher additions made by Henry II and Henry VIII.

This castle is not an example of how Kings and Queens lived but concentrates on its role as a fort and the battles that it has endured. Visitors can experience the siege of 1216 by Louis VIII of France, discover the labyrinth of secret wartime tunnels built under Dover's white cliffs and walk through the rooms where the miracle of Dunkirk was planned. The secret war time tunnels are only accessible on a guided tour with numbers limited on a first-come-first-served basis.

Parts of the castle were also used as a hospital during WWII. Constructed in 1941-2 as Medical Dressing Station for injured troops, visitors today can experience the sounds, smells and atmosphere of the underground Second World War hospital with its operating theatre.

Visitors can also see the Princess of Wales' Royal Regiment Museum, one of the best-preserved Roman lighthouses in Europe and the most complete Saxon church in Kent.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Dover Castle?
Stagecoach in East Kent run Passenger Services 593 from Dover (and passes close to Dover Priory railway station enroute).
By Road, Dover Castle is to the east of Dover, and is sign posted from M20, A2 (junction 1 of M2) and from town centre.
By Train: Dover Priory Station (1 1/2 Miles)

Where can I eat when I visit Dover Castle?
There are plenty of places to eat at Dover Castle:
NAAFI Restaurant: offers a selection of delicious hot meals and homemade treats.
Secret Wartime Tunnels Cafe offers a selection of homemade sandwiches, hot stew and crusty bread and a selection of cakes and afternoon teas.
Great Tower Cafe: provides homemade soups and freshly made sandwiches, local juices, beer and fair-trade hot drinks, cakes and tea.
There is also an Ice Cream Parlour.

Opening Times

Opening times vary throughout the season, please check the website.

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Ticket Prices

Adults: £16.00
Children: £9.60
Concessions: £14.40
Family Ticket: £41.60
English Heritage Member: Free

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Disabled Facilities

Extensive grounds mainly accessible on tarmac paths but there are some very steep slopes. Wheelchair routes highlighted. A limited number of manual wheelchairs are available for free loan for use on the level areas of the site. These wheelchairs must be used with the aide of a companion who can support and stabilise the wheelchair both when in use and while stopping. The land train or courtesy vehicle should be used to get to the top/bottom ends of the site - avoiding use of wheelchairs on steep slopes. Manual wheelchairs can be reserved in advance (where available) by telephoning the site directly on 01304 211067 .

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More Information

Telephone: 01304 211067
Email: customers@english-heritage.org.uk

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