Dover Castle is one of the most iconic and historically rich castles in England making it a perfect day trip from London. With its commanding views over the English Channel, secret wartime tunnels and centuries of history, Dover Castle offers something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.
Things to Do at Dover Castle
The Great Tower
This magnificent Great Tower was built by Henry II in the 12th century. The recreated interiors bring the medieval court to life complete with costumed interpreters during peak times. We arrived just in time for a tour and learned some fascinating tales from the time and how the castle was used at its peak. It was incredibly modern for the time and had its own version of central heating and piped water! Don’t miss walking up the steps to the roof. There is a fabulous view of the countryside and Port (if it’s not too cloudy!).
Dover Castle Grounds
It is very easy to walk around the grounds, admiring the view or having a picnic. There is a fabulous play area inside the walls and in the summer months, more activities are put on for children.
Roman Lighthouse and Anglo-Saxon Church
The Roman Lighthouse is the oldest building on the land. Dating back to around 50AD you can walk right up to the ruins and have a look inside. Next door is the Anglo-Saxon Church, St Mary’s in Castro which is still in use today.
Secret Wartime Tunnels
These tunnels by the cliff were used as a secret military command centre during World War II. The story of Operation Dynamo is told through audio-visual exhibits telling you all about the Dunkirk evacuation and life in wartime Britain. These tunnels are a must-see and truly bring history to life. There is a lift option but it was fun to exit by walking up the double helix staircase.
Underground Hospital
The tunnels next to Operation Dynamo house a reconstructed military hospital. The tour tells of how this was built in just a few months but was never actually used as a hospital due to the humid environment. The tour, complete with eerie sound effects offers a sobering insight into how the tunnels were used as a triage area giving emergency care before moving on.
Opening Hours
Dover Castle is open every day from 10am. Closing hours depend on the time of year and vary between 4pm and 6pm. Check the opening times on the website for when you want to visit. It is a full day out so I would encourage you to arrive close to the opening time.
Dover Castle Tickets
You can save 15% by booking in advance, even up to midnight on the day before you visit. You can turn up and pay but you will pay full price. As of 2025, the ticket price for an adult is £25.90 and a child, £16.30. Family tickets and concessions are also available. If you are staying in the area for longer, then it might be worth purchasing a membership to visit other nearby properties.
Location
Dover Castle is on a hill overlooking the town of Dover and the Port where ferries depart for France. The Castle is literally on top of The White Cliffs of Dover! The castle is in Kent, South East of London.
Getting To Dover Castle
By Train
The fastest and easiest way to visit Dover from London is by train. Regular trains run directly to Dover from St. Pancras, Charing Cross and Victoria. I would recommend the train from St. Pancras as the journey takes between 1h 9m and 1h29m where the trains from the other two stations take about 2 hours.
From Dover Priory Train Station, you have three options: Walk 30 minutes up the hill to the Castle; take a taxi for the 5 minute journey or take the Number 81 bus. Use a navigation app to plan your journey.
Book your train travel through Trainline as far in advance as you can for cheaper tickets.
By Car
Driving from central London to Dover Castle takes approximately 2 hours via the M20 or A2 depending on traffic. There is a large free car park at the Castle itself or at the overflow car park just a 5 minute walk away. All are clearly signposted.
Toilets
There are toilets located inside the castle walls near the playground and dotted throughout the site.
Eating and Drinking
There are several food options available. A couple of outdoor kiosks are available in the summer selling drinks and ice cream.
A café located next to the entrance to the Keep selling a variety of food from snacks to main meals.
The NAAFI restaurant is a full-service café offering hot meals, sandwiches, cakes and drinks located near the Wartime tunnels. About a 10 minute walk from the castle itself.
There are a couple of picnic areas, one inside the castle walls near the keep and one on the way to the tunnels. You are also allowed to eat anywhere you can find on the grass.
Accessibility
Due to the historic nature of the site, some areas have limited access. There are step-free routes throughout the grounds but the Great Tower won’t be fully accessible, just the ground floor. You can visit the Wartime tunnels. You can borrow narrower scooters that will fit through the tunnels. For full details, look on the official website.
Top Tips for visiting Dover Castle
- Arrive early to beat the crowds (especially cruise ship groups) and allow at least 3-4 hours to explore fully.
- If there is a large queue at the Operation Dynamo Tunnel, then you can visit the hospital tunnels right next door.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the site is large and includes slopes and cobbled paths.
- Bring a jacket or jumper, even in summer – the site is elevated and can be cool and breezy. I visited in the summer and had sea mist rolling in which was freezing!
- Don’t miss the Wartime Tunnels, a 10 minute walk from the Castle itself. You will also get fabulous views of the Port of Dover.
If you’re interested in History, you might like to visit Rochester for a day trip or Ightham Mote. Both of these offer a glimpse into British history.
