HOTELS IN Dover

Culture and history in Dover

History is at the heart of Dover, and it’s waiting to be uncovered. Travel through time with a visit to these informative and intriguing attractions. 

• Dover Museum

Not just any history and archaeology museum, this tells the important story of this historically significant port town. The Bronze Age Boat exhibition is a standout, with remains of a large wooden prehistoric boat thought to be 3,000 years old, helping visitors to understand the Bronze Age. The museum can be found right in the town centre.

• Fan Bay Deep Shelter

Step right back in time with a trip to these tunnels constructed in 1940/41 as accommodation for the gun battery above. Take an underground adventure with a guided tour of the tunnels – hidden within the White Cliffs of Dover – and experience two sound mirrors, used as early acoustic devices in the first world war.

• Roman Lighthouse

If you’re taking a trip to Dover Castle, it’s more than worth checking out this Roman ‘Pharos’, built in the early 2^nd AD to guide the Roman fleet into the harbour. It’s the most complete standing Roman building in England, as well as one of only three lighthouses to survive the whole of the former Roman empire. Check it out yourself to discover more.

Shopping in Dover

Need to grab the essentials? Or after something a little quirkier? Choose from this variety of shops, all a short walk away from beautiful scenery.

• De Bradelei Wharf

This relaxed outlet offers quality brands and something for everyone, located in the picturesque waterfront overlooking the marina. Browse through ladieswear, menswear, suits, shoes, gifts, bedding, cookware and more, followed by a short walk to the seaside for some crisp fresh air.   

• St James

This retail and leisure park – made up of food, fashion, fitness and film – is the perfect place for hitting the shops, dining and enjoying the latest releases in one outing. It’s just a few minutes from the famous Port of Dover, so you can follow some indoor entertainment with some outdoor ferry watching.

• The Vintage Bubble at The Wrong End of Town

For more of a unique shopping experience, with one-off gems, take a trip to this vintage craft store. Browse your way through customisable toy boxes, photo frames, pillows, clothes and more, as well as something for every festive and celebratory occasion. Why not pick out something the whole family can remember Dover by?

Eating and drinking in Dover

Whether you’re after local cuisine or flavours from abroad, refuel yourself after an outdoorsy day in Dover with some great grub and drink.  

• The White Horse

Dover’s history can also be found in its traditional pubs, with this Grade-II listed building dating back to 1365. Known locally as The Horse, it survived both world wars while next-door St James Church (now ruins), was taken down during both. Today you can enjoy traditional, home-cooked food with veggie, vegan, dairy free and gluten free options, paired with premium drinks in a cosy atmosphere. White Horse Burger anyone?

• Cullins Yard

Found in an old converted ship yard in Dover Marina, you can enjoy fresh seafood, locally brewed beer and a selection of Scottish whisky, while observing war memorabilia and distinctive sculptures. Opt for the outside area for an evening spent watching the sun set behind the White Cliffs.

• Namaste

Promising real Indian cuisine, this restaurant in The Swingate Inn boasts a menu of locally-sourced ingredients, delivering authentic tasting cuisine. Enjoy a chicken jalfrezi or maaki daal the way they’re meant to taste, followed by your favourite cocktails in the garden bar. 

Things to do in Dover

Dover is full of history, beautiful scenery and wholesome activities. Why not fill your day with all three?

• The White Cliffs of Dover

It only makes sense to kick things off with the world-renowned White Cliffs, a chalk face known as a symbol of home and war time defence. You can also enjoy stunning views of the Channel with a walk along the top, with sights of France in the distance on clearer days. An attraction that’s worth visiting more than once, with views depending on the weather. Do you prefer crashing waves or calm waters?

• Samphire Hoe

Observe the cliffs themselves, with a view from the bottom. This country park was created with 4.9 million cubic metres of chalk marl from Channel Tunnel excavations. It boasts greenery in abundance, striking wildflowers, a variety of wildlife and tranquil walks. While there, you can see if the education shelter has any activities on for the kids.

• Dover Castle

Another classic to tick off the must-dos. Unearth 2,000 years of history with a trip to Dover Castle. Here you can explore the Great Tower, walk in the footsteps of Henry II, immerse yourself in recreated royal rooms, climb to the rooftop for sea views and learn about the role it played in both world wars. This medieval haunt accompanied by more than 80 acres of grounds is just waiting to be discovered.