Dover Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Dover

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 crossing point between England and continental Europe – the Strait of Dover – has been the point of travel and trade across the Channel since as early as the Bronze Age, if not earlier.

A pre-Roman settlement existed on the site and was first recorded as the fortified port, Portus Dubris, after the Roman conquest. Its name is derived from the Brythonic word for water, which also correlates with the name of the river, Dour, which runs through the city. During the Roman period, the area became part of the Roman communications network and was connected by road to Canterbury and Watling Street. There are several historical sites in Dover dating back to that period, including the Roman Painted House.

In the 4th century AD, it was guarded by a fort as part of the defenses of the Saxon Shore. During the 11th century, it was made one of the Cinque Ports.

The magnificent Dover Castle, built atop the cliffs, some 375 feet (114 metres) above sea level, dominates the landscape. On a clear day, the coast of France can be seen from there easily. Built to repel invasions from the sea, during WWII this medieval fortress – one of the largest in England – also served a defensive purpose, housing the extensive Secret Wartime Tunnels. Within its 80 acres there are also a Roman lighthouse, the ancient Church of St. Mary in Castro, the remains of the Saxon stronghold, and the massive Norman keep.

During WWII, Dover was heavily shelled from Nazi-occupied France and bombed from the air. The shattered seafront was subsequently redeveloped after the war, seeing Dover become a principal cross-Channel passenger ferry port in the United Kingdom.

A fascinating place to visit on your tour of Dover is the Dover Museum on Market Square, holding a collection of rare artifacts such as the ruins of a wooden boat aged circa 3,500 years. A walk around Dover Western Heights is yet another must-do experience for your Dover tour.

To explore the picturesque town of Dover in more detail, visiting these and other notable sites, take this self-guided walking tour.