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
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
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
 Alma House

Alma House

2 out of 5
37 Folkestone Road, Dover, England
Alma House
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, don't miss the fascinating wartime tunnels that offer a glimpse into history. You can also enjoy family games and explore the surrounding area with day trips. If you're looking for accommodations, there are several hotels nearby, making it easy to extend your stay and fully experience all that Dover has to offer, including scenic ferry rides.

Food and drinks

Visit Barnsole Vineyard, a charming winery 10 miles from Dover Castle, for a delightful tasting experience. Enjoy the romantic atmosphere while savoring local wines, perfect for unwinding after exploring the historic fort and its stunning surroundings.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is the Capel le Ferne Farmers Market, just 5 miles away, offering local goods and a vibrant atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, check out the Westwood Cross Shopping Centre and the Old Synagogue, both providing a variety of shops and entertainment options 15-16 miles from the castle.

Recreation

At Kearsney Abbey Gardens, enjoy peaceful strolls and serene landscapes, perfect for relaxation. For sports enthusiasts, the Royal St George's Golf Club offers a challenging course set in beautiful surroundings. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at Mercure Hythe Imperial Spa Naturel, a delightful escape for wellness and tranquility.

Adventure

Experience the stunning views along Leas Promenade, an 8-mile hiking trail perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Challenge yourself at the Marsh Maize Maze, located 15 miles away, ideal for families. For a thrilling adventure, try Lazer Rush, 19 miles from Dover Castle, where excitement awaits.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Dover Castle! Catch a show at the Astor Theatre for a cultural evening, enjoy family fun at Broadstairs Leisure arcade, or try your luck at Genting Casino for a romantic night out in the city. There's something for everyone!

Find the best attractions near Dover Castle

When visiting Dover Castle, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history while enjoying the stunning local beaches and scenic reserves. Explore the iconic White Cliffs of Dover and take in the breathtaking views of the bay. Don't miss the heart of Dover, where you can discover various attractions and sights that highlight the area's charm. With a range of outdoor experiences available, there's something for everyone to enjoy during your trip.

  • White Cliffs of Dover: Experience breathtaking views and a sense of adventure at the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, just 2 miles from Dover Castle. Famous for their stunning white chalk formations, these cliffs offer fantastic walking trails and opportunities for outdoor exploration amidst picturesque scenery.
  • Dover Beach: Relax and soak up the sun at Dover Beach, located only 0.7 miles from the castle. This charming beach boasts soft sands and gentle waves, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful day by the sea.
  • Dover Harbour: Discover the scenic beauty of Dover Harbour, just 0.8 miles away. This bustling harbor combines stunning waterfront views with beach vibes, offering a lovely area to enjoy fresh air and watch boats come and go.

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 can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Dover Castle falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Dover Castle falls in January and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

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 CloudyAverageAverage
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 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 LowSlightly Low
December46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dover Castle

Visiting Dover Castle can be budget-friendly with some smart planning. Opt for free nearby attractions like Folkestone Harbour and St Margaret's Bay Beach to enhance your experience without the cost. The best time to visit is from November to January when accommodation prices drop. Book hotels about a month in advance for the best rates, or check last-minute deals on Expedia. Utilize their search filters to find eco-certified hotels and bundle your stay with flights for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also unlock exclusive discounts and rewards.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dover Castle are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Dover Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your travel preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by bundling your hotel stay at Dover Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • 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.