Dover Castle

Dover Castle is the largest castle in England and one of the most historically significant fortresses in Europe. Perched on the white cliffs above the English Channel, the site has been continuously fortified for nearly two thousand years - from Roman beacons to medieval keep to Cold War nuclear bunker.

The castle's most prominent feature is the Great Tower, built by Henry II in the 1180s as a magnificent royal palace and military stronghold. At over 25 metres tall with walls up to 6 metres thick, it remains one of the finest surviving examples of Norman architecture in Britain. Inside, English Heritage has recreated the medieval royal apartments as they would have appeared during a visit by Henry II, complete with painted walls, embroidered hangings and period furniture.

The castle's strategic position made it crucial to the defence of England for centuries. It famously withstood a year-long siege by Prince Louis of France in 1216 - earning the nickname "the key to England" - and continued to be reinforced and adapted right up to the Cold War.

Beneath the medieval castle lies one of Dover's most remarkable secrets: a network of tunnels carved into the white cliffs. Originally dug during the Napoleonic Wars, the tunnels were extensively expanded during the Second World War to serve as a top-secret military command centre. From here, Vice-Admiral Bertram Ramsay directed Operation Dynamo, the evacuation of 338,000 Allied troops from Dunkirk in May 1940. The Secret Wartime Tunnels are now open to visitors as an immersive exhibition.

The castle grounds also contain the Roman Pharos - a 1st-century lighthouse that is one of the oldest surviving Roman buildings in Britain - and the adjoining Anglo-Saxon church of St Mary in Castro, which incorporates Roman bricks in its walls.

Visitors can explore the Great Tower, walk the curtain walls, descend into the wartime tunnels, climb the Roman Pharos, and enjoy views across the Strait of Dover towards France on clear days. The site also includes a medieval tunnel system used to defend the castle, costumed interpreters during peak season, family-friendly activities, a café and gift shop.

Dover Castle is managed by English Heritage and admission charges apply (free to English Heritage members). Allow at least half a day for a full visit - many people return multiple times because there's simply too much to see in one day.