Dover Castle Tours

Dover Castle showing chateau or palace, general coastal views and heritage architecture
Dover Castle showing chateau or palace and heritage architecture
Dover Castle showing interior views and chateau or palace
Dover Castle which includes heritage architecture, military items and chateau or palace
Dover Castle showing heritage architecture, a castle 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
Premier Inn Dover - Eastern Ferry Terminal

Premier Inn Dover - Eastern Ferry Terminal

2 out of 5
Marine Court, Marine Parade, Dover, England
Premier Inn Dover - Eastern Ferry Terminal
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
Premier Inn Dover Central

Premier Inn Dover Central

Marine Court, Marine Parade, Dover, ENG
Premier Inn Dover Central
Churchill Guest House

Churchill Guest House

4 out of 5
6 Castle Hill, Dover, England
Churchill Guest House
Castle Guest House

Castle Guest House

4 out of 5
10 Castle Hill Road, Dover, England
Castle Guest House
Park Inn Palace

Park Inn Palace

2 out of 5
1 Park Pl, Dover, England
Park Inn Palace
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 an array of exciting activities, including guided tours that delve into its rich history and stunning architecture. Nearby, you can enjoy a scenic ferry ride, perfect for a romantic evening. The vibrant Dover Carnival adds to the local charm, providing a festive atmosphere. Adventure awaits as you explore the castle grounds and participate in various events, making it a fantastic destination for both history buffs and adventure seekers.

Shopping

For a shopping experience near Dover Castle, visit the Capel le Ferne Farmers Market, just 5 miles away, for local goods. If you're up for a drive, check out Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, located 16 miles away, offering entertainment and family-friendly shopping options.

Recreation

Explore Kearsney Abbey Gardens for a serene stroll amidst beautiful landscapes, perfect for relaxation. At Walmer and Kingsdown Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf in a refreshing outdoor setting. Betteshanger Park offers scenic walking trails, providing an ideal backdrop for wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Take a ride on the Leas Lift, a funicular offering stunning views and a fun experience for the family, located 7 miles from Dover Castle. For a scenic adventure, hike the Leas Promenade, a beautiful trail 8 miles away, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife by catching a show at the Astor Theatre, just 7 miles from Dover Castle, or enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere at The Tower Theatre, 8 miles away. For some adventure, head to Family Amusements - Ramsgate Boulevard, 15 miles away, for arcade fun.

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

Find the best attractions near Dover Castle

When visiting Dover Castle, you'll find a wealth of attractions nearby that cater to various interests, from cultural experiences to outdoor adventures. Explore the stunning cliffs, beautiful beaches, and the bustling harbor. Don't miss the historic walls of Dover Castle, the intriguing Dover Museum, and other sights just a short drive away, ensuring a well-rounded experience during your vacation.

  • White Cliffs of Dover: Experience breathtaking views and the stunning natural beauty of these iconic chalk cliffs located 2 miles from Dover Castle. Enjoy outdoor adventures and picturesque scenery that have inspired artists and poets for centuries.
  • Dover Beach: Relax at Dover Beach, just 0.7 miles from Dover Castle. This charming beach offers a serene spot to soak up the sun, take leisurely strolls along the shore, and enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves.
  • Dover Harbour: Explore Dover Harbour, located 0.8 miles away, where you can admire the bustling waterfront, watch boats come and go, and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding area, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Best time to go to Dover Castle

The best time to visit Dover Castle is dependent 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 trip to Dover Castle, consider visiting between January and March when hotel prices are lower. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare prices and find budget-friendly accommodations, and consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Joining the One Key membership program offers exclusive discounts and potential cash back for future bookings. Look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options and always check for direct booking deals for the best rates.

  • 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 makes it easy for you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can organize your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at Dover Castle with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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