Dover is the closest English town to mainland Europe, and for centuries it has been the country’s front door. Its White Cliffs are one of Britain’s most famous sights, and its castle has guarded the Channel for nearly a thousand years.
Why visit Dover
For iconic views, deep history and easy connections. You can walk along the cliff tops, explore a medieval fortress and its wartime tunnels, and still be in London in about an hour – or in France by ferry.
Top things to do in Dover
The White Cliffs
Walk the National Trust paths along the chalk cliffs to the South Foreland Lighthouse, with views of ships and, on clear days, the coast of France.
Dover Castle
A huge medieval castle with a Great Tower, a Roman lighthouse and the Secret Wartime Tunnels, where the 1940 evacuation of Dunkirk was planned.
Roman and ancient Dover
The Roman Painted House, with some of the best-preserved Roman wall paintings in Britain, and the Bronze Age boat in Dover Museum, about 3,500 years old.
The seafront and harbour
A pebble beach, a promenade and the busy ferry port, where ships sail for Calais.
Best time to visit Dover
April to October is ideal for cliff walks and castle visits. Summer weekends and school holidays are the busiest.
Getting to and around Dover
High-speed trains from London St Pancras reach Dover Priory in about an hour. Ferries to Calais take about 90 minutes. The castle and cliffs are a steep walk or a short drive from the town centre.
What to eat in Dover
Fish and chips, local seafood, and Kentish apples, cherries and cider from the “Garden of England”.
Dover FAQ
How long should I stay?
One or two days are enough for the castle, the cliffs and the town.
Can I see France from Dover?
Yes, on clear days. The French coast is about 33 kilometres away.
