Famed for its soaring white cliffs, Dover is a lively port on the English Channel that links to the French city of Calais. It’s home to one of the largest castles in England and fascinating wartime tunnels, as well as a world-renowned Bronze Age boat.
Things to do in Dover
The most famous natural landmark in the region is the White Cliffs of Dover, where soaring chalk faces stretch for 13 kilometres along the coast. Follow the cliff-top walking trail that leads to the World War II tunnels of the Fan Bay Deep Shelter and the Victorian-era South Foreland Lighthouse at St. Margaret's Bay.
Want to explore the “Key to England”? Visit the immense Dover Castle, which has been guarding the gateway to the realm since the 11th century. Step back in time to experience the royal court of King Henry II in the Great Tower and learn about the evacuation of Allied soldiers from Dunkirk in the Operation Dynamo exhibit.
Delve into the region’s history at the Dover Museum where prehistoric, Roman and Saxon artefacts are displayed. A highlight of the museum is the Dover Bronze Age Boat, a 3,500-year-old wooden vessel found preserved in mud and believed to be the oldest boat in the world to remain so intact.
Pay your respects at Capel-le-Ferne’s Battle of Britain Memorial, which is dedicated to the airmen who flew in this historic World War II battle. Admire the replicas of a Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire, then witness the names of around 3,000 fighter aircrew on the Memorial Wall.
Getting around Dover
Dover is around two hours by train from London Heathrow Airport and connected to Calais by regular ferries. Buses travel throughout Dover, while the town centre is small enough to explore on foot.