Dover Castle Tours and Activities

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


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.

Plan a trip to see Dover Castle

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Best Lodging Options Near Dover Castle

Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

4 out of 5
Dover Waterfront, Waterloo Crescent, Dover, England
Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa
Dover Town Rooms

Dover Town Rooms

2.5 out of 5
5 Eastbrook Place, Maison Dieu Road, Dover, England
Dover Town Rooms
St Martin's Guest House

St Martin's Guest House

3 out of 5
17 Castle Hill Road, Dover, England
St Martin's Guest House
Hubert House Guesthouse

Hubert House Guesthouse

4 out of 5
9 Castle Hill Road, Dover, England
Hubert House Guesthouse
Churchill Guest House

Churchill Guest House

4 out of 5
6 Castle Hill, Dover, England
Churchill Guest House
ATIS The Park Inn

ATIS The Park Inn

2 out of 5
1 Park Pl, Dover, England
ATIS The Park Inn
Maison Dieu Guest House

Maison Dieu Guest House

3 out of 5
89 Maison Dieu Road, Dover, England
Maison Dieu Guest House
Castle Guest House

Castle Guest House

4 out of 5
10 Castle Hill Road, Dover, England
Castle Guest House
Victorian Town House in Dover

Victorian Town House in Dover

Dover
Victorian Town House in Dover
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

When visiting Dover Castle, be sure to explore its historic grounds, take advantage of guided tours, and experience the fascinating tunnel tours. For a unique perspective, consider a virtual tour. Remember to plan your visit in advance to make the most of your time, and don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy nearby ferry services for a scenic outing. Discover the rich history and stunning views that make this castle a must-see in the UK.

Shopping

For a local shopping experience, visit the Capel le Ferne Farmers Market, located 8.0km from Dover Castle, offering a vibrant atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, the Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, 25.7km away, features family-friendly entertainment options, while the Old Synagogue store is 18.0km distant.

Recreation

Betteshanger Park, located 12.9km from Dover Castle, offers a tranquil setting ideal for relaxation amidst nature. Crabble Stadium, 3.2km away, provides an energetic environment for sports enthusiasts. For golf lovers, Walmer and Kingsdown Golf Club, 8.0km distant, features picturesque outdoor settings perfect for a leisurely game.

Adventure

Embark on an adventure along the North Downs Way, a scenic hiking trail located 966m from Dover Castle, offering stunning views and fresh air. For family fun, ride the Leas Lift, a thrilling funicular 11.3km away, or explore the tranquil Reinden Wood, also 11.3km from the castle.

Nightlife

Dover Castle offers a charming nightlife with nearby attractions like Marlowe Theatre and Granville Theatre for cultural and romantic experiences. For family fun, head to the Family Amusements - Ramsgate Boulevard, an arcade adventure zone that promises excitement and entertainment for all ages.

Find the best attractions near Dover Castle

While visiting Dover Castle in England, you'll discover a wealth of attractions both within and around the site. Enjoy stunning views from the castle walls, explore the historic castle itself, and take in the charm of historic Dover. For those seeking outdoor experiences, the nearby cliffs and beach provide a perfect backdrop to your adventure. Whether you’re interested in culture or outdoor activities, Dover Castle offers something for everyone.

  • White Cliffs of Dover: A stunning natural landmark, the White Cliffs of Dover offer breathtaking views and a sense of adventure. Ideal for hiking, this iconic cliff face is steeped in history and showcases the beauty of the English coastline.
  • St Margaret's Bay Beach: This picturesque beach provides a perfect spot for relaxation and leisure. With its golden sands and gentle waves, St Margaret's Bay Beach is an inviting destination for sunbathing or enjoying seaside strolls.
  • Walmer Castle and Gardens: A charming 16th-century castle surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, Walmer Castle is rich in history and romance. Explore its elegant rooms and enjoy a peaceful walk in the serene gardens.

Best time to go to Dover Castle

Visitor numbers around Dover Castle is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. 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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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 Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
April48.7°F (9.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
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 SunnyAverageSlightly High
October57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dover Castle

When visiting Dover Castle, consider exploring nearby free attractions like St Margaret's Bay Beach and Folkestone Harbour. To save on accommodation, aim to book your stay in the cheaper months of January to February or November, with Tuesdays offering the best rates. Avoid weekends, especially Saturdays, which are pricier. Use Expedia to compare prices, find great deals on hotels, and consider booking a package that includes flights and activities for additional savings. This way, you can enjoy your trip while keeping costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dover Castle are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by booking a package through Expedia that combines your hotel stay at Dover Castle with your flights and activities.