Dover Castle

Dover Castle which includes heritage architecture, general coastal views and château or palace
Dover Castle which includes heritage architecture and château or palace
Dover Castle showing château or palace and interior views
Dover Castle which includes military items, heritage architecture and château or palace
Dover Castle showing a sunset, château or palace and heritage architecture


Unparalleled views of the English Channel, secret wartime tunnels and the “Key to England” await discovery at this cliffside medieval castle.

Dover Castle sits grandly on top of the White Cliffs of Dover and has been Great Britain’s front line against invasion for more than 20 centuries. Medieval chambers, complex military defenses and secret wartime tunnels await explorers of the largest castle in England. Founded in the 12th century, the “Key to England” has had a long and dramatic history. Its informative tours bring the past into the present day.

Experience medieval court life in the Great Tower, once the royal court of King Henry II. Kids will enjoy the recreated regal palace and its costumed characters, including the King and Queen, which bring these historical figures and their stories to life.

The Dover Castle fortress walls were used for protection and defense for the British, even in World War II and the Cold War. Discover the labyrinth of tunnels that concealed an underground hospital.

Wander across the castle grounds and enjoy unparalleled views across the English Channel. Visit the Anglo-Saxon Church and the ruins of a Roman lighthouse. A gently sloping path follows the battlements above the cliffs to the Admiralty Lookout. Buy some lunch and a drink at the on-site restaurant and café and stop by the Dover Castle souvenir shop as you leave.

Dover Castle is located on top of Castle Hill, approximately 1 mile (1.2 kilometers) from the center of town. The castle is easily accessible by car and offers free on-site parking. A local bus route and a cycle path also run through the area.

Ticket prices include a tour of the tunnels and access to the castle grounds. Dover Castle has limited opening hours throughout the colder months and during public holidays, so check ahead to avoid disappointment. A full day is recommended to explore the castle and its surroundings, so pack a picnic or some English scones and take a break in the royal gardens.

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Sandman Signature London Gatwick Hotel
Bloc Hotel London Gatwick Airport
East Sussex National

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dover Castle

Dover Castle offers a range of exciting activities for visitors, including exploring the historic fortress itself, which boasts impressive medieval architecture and stunning views of the White Cliffs of Dover. Adventure seekers can also enjoy nearby ferry rides, providing a unique perspective of the coastline. With its rich history and scenic surroundings, Dover Castle is a fantastic destination for a memorable experience.

Shopping

For a local touch, visit Capel le Ferne Farmers Market, located 8.0km from Dover Castle, where you’ll find fresh produce and unique crafts. If you're up for a drive, explore Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, 25.7km away, offering family-friendly entertainment and a variety of shops.

Recreation

Explore Connaught Park for a serene stroll amidst lush greenery, perfect for relaxation. For sports enthusiasts, Crabble Stadium offers vibrant athletic activities. Finally, enjoy a round at Walmer and Kingsdown Golf Club, where the scenic outdoor setting enhances your golfing experience.

Adventure

Embark on the North Downs Way, a scenic hiking trail located 966m from Dover Castle, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For family fun, ride the Leas Lift, a thrilling funicular situated 11.3km away, or explore the tranquil Reinden Wood, also 11.3km from the castle, offering beautiful woodland vibes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Dover Castle with a film at Cineworld Dover, just 483m away, perfect for a romantic evening. For a cultural touch, visit the Astor Theatre, 11.3km distant, offering family-friendly entertainment. For adventure seekers, Family Amusements - Ramsgate Boulevard, 24.1km away, promises excitement.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Dover Castle

No matter your interests, Dover Castle offers a wealth of attractions for visitors. With stunning beaches, picturesque harbours, and dramatic cliffs, there's something for everyone. Whether you seek cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply a day by the sea, the area around Dover Castle is sure to provide an unforgettable holiday, catering to all types of travellers.

  • White Cliffs of Dover: Experience breathtaking views from these iconic chalk cliffs, standing proudly at the edge of England. Ideal for outdoor adventures, you can walk along the scenic paths and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
  • Dover Beach: A delightful spot for relaxation, Dover Beach offers golden sands and tranquil waves. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, it's an excellent place to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach vibes.
  • Dover Harbour: This bustling harbour is a hub of activity, where you can admire the picturesque scenery. Enjoy the views of the ferries and boats, and explore the charming waterfront cafés and shops nearby.

Best time to go to Dover Castle

The best time to visit Dover Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.5°F (7.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April48.7°F (9.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dover Castle

To save money on your visit to Dover Castle, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to March when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to filter for budget-friendly hotels and eco-certified options. Additionally, look for package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings. Exploring on foot is also a great way to enjoy the area without extra costs.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dover Castle are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Dover Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Dover Castle is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at Dover Castle with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

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