Things to see and do
Find out what you can see and do on a day out at England's Greatest Fortress.
Discover the Secret Wartime Tunnels beneath the castle, climb the medieval Great Tower or gaze across the English channel from the WWI Fire Command Post and Port War signal station. Explore the extensive grounds and defences and experience the battlements walk.
The Secret Wartime Tunnels
Walk through the tunnels hidden deep within the White Cliffs of Dover as state-of-the-art special effects, dramatic projections and real film footage bring to life the dramatic rescue of the British Army from the beaches of Dunkirk. Afterwards, travel through the atmospheric Underground Hospital and experience the sounds, smells and atmosphere of the castle's Second World War dressing station with its operating theatre, wards and corridors.
Discover the medieval court of Henry II
Step inside the Great Tower and immerse yourself in a medieval palace like no other.
Be transported to a world of courtly intrigue and royal ambition, as you experience the vibrant colour and rich furnishings of one of medieval England's most important castles. Finally, meet costumed characters like Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine - on select days - that bring the era to life.
WW1 Fire Command Post
During the First World War, the Dover area was officially designated as a fortress with Dover Castle acting as military headquarters. Our recreated fire command post reveals the story of this important period in the castle's history, and is also home to the only working British 3 Inch Gun in the world.
This restoration of the fire command post was supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Friends of Dover Castle.
PWRR Museum
Located in the mighty keep of Dover Castle, the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment and Queen's Regiment Museum recounts tales of courage and sacrifice from one of England's oldest army regiments. The museum hosts a unique collection of objects, tracing the foundation of the regiment in 1572 right the way through to recent deployments in the 21st century.
Learn more about the PWRR Museum here.
Battlement Walk
In response to the rise of Napoleon, Dover Castle underwent the largest series of modifications since the 1100s. Today, enjoy a family walk along these impressive battlements and enjoy the crisp, fresh air of the Channel as you appreciate the defences of Dover.
Uncover Dover's Roman and Saxon Stories
Discover the oldest surviving lighthouse in the country, and one of the oldest in the world, the Roman Pharos. This remarkable survivor was once used to aid navigation by Romans across the English Channel from France.
Next door to the lighthouse is the Anglo-Saxon church of St Mary in Castro, a working church still in use today.
A bite to eat
We have several eateries tucked within the castle walls offering a wide variety of refreshments to satisfy your appetite. A takeaway service is available, with outdoor seating available at the Naafi restaurant.
Panoramic Views
Perched high above the town, Castle Hill, where Dover Castle stands today, has held a commanding position on the Kent coast for over 2,000 years. Today, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the North Downs and Kentish shoreline, including the Western Heights and, on a clear day, the shores of France.
Medieval Kitchens
When King Henry II came calling, the most important room in the castle was the kitchen. In the basement of the Great Keep, you can see a replica medieval kitchen, complete with some of the tools and implements necessary to maintain a Royal household.
