Dover Castle, Dover

Dover Castle, Dover (must see)

Dover Castle is a stunning medieval castle that stands upon Castle Hill above the famous White Cliffs of Dover. Building began on this fortress-like castle during the 11th century. Dover Castle has often been called the "Key to England" because of its strategic position at the shortest crossing between continental Europe and England.

This grand hilltop structure features high walls and stately towers. Dover Castle is one of the largest castles in England, and there is plenty to see. The lavish interior of the Great Tower features decorations that recreate the regal rooms of a medieval castle. A feast for the eyes with magnificent furnishings, colorful tapestries, and over 500 objects. Costumed characters perform on selected days.

Beneath the castle is a network of medieval tunnels constructed for defensive purposes. These winding passageways are open for visitors to explore. Tours are available to discover the secret wartime tunnels of Dover Castle, used during World War II. An exhibition brings the history of the Dunkirk evacuation to life as you learn about the story of tunnels.

There are 80 acres of grounds around the castle, a great place to explore. An octagonal-shaped Roman lighthouse is an impressive structure built in the early 2nd century. It is one of only a few lighthouses in the world that has survived from the time of the Roman empire. This lighthouse later served as the bell tower at St Mary in Castro, a church on the Dover Castle grounds built around AD 1000. Still a working church, there are worship services each Sunday.

If you're hungry, you'll find a restaurant, a cafe, a tearoom, and a picnic area at Dover Castle. There is also a museum and two shops. Climb up to the roof of the Grand Tower for some magnificent views.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Dover. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

Download The GPSmyCity App

Dover Castle on Map

Sight Name: Dover Castle
Sight Location: Dover, England (See walking tours in Dover)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Dover, England

Create Your Own Walk in Dover

Create Your Own Walk in Dover

Creating your own self-guided walk in Dover is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Dover Introduction Walking Tour

Dover Introduction Walking Tour

The lovely coastal town of Dover in Kent, England, overlooking the English Channel from the height of the striking white chalk cliffs, has long been a major sea gate to the country. It is to this iconic landmark, known as the "White Cliffs of Dover", that the isle of Great Britain owes its nickname, the Albion.

According to archaeological findings, this location at the narrowest...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Western Heights Walking Tour

Western Heights Walking Tour

The Western Heights of Dover is an impressive fortification built for protection against invaders. Construction took place at the time of the Napoleonic Wars, with improvements continuing during the 19th century. This immense hilltop fortress features an incredible network of forts, barracks, tunnels, ramparts, and massive ditches.

There are two forts at Western Heights, the Drop Redoubt and...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles