Dover is a town in Kent and a ferry port in South East England. It is a fortress and the site of a military castle, fortified to defend against attacks. For over 9 centuries, this special place has played a major role in defending against invasion and boasts a generous realm of historic magnificence. Due to its location on the map, it houses the busiest passenger ferry in the world!
If you're traveling to Dover for the first time, there are a few must-see attractions that are unique to the land. Be sure to try the Dover sole and freshly caught cuisine featured on the menus of local restaurants near the stops we've listed below. If you aren't from Dover, these items are typically expensive due to transportation costs, so don't miss the chance to enjoy them while your'e there. The following information provides a quick reference check-list for your trip to Dover:
The White Cliffs of Dover
The White Cliffs of Dover are sometimes referred to as chalk cliffs due to their composition. The striking white color of the flint is known to represent innocence and peace for returning men at war. The shape of the beautiful walls along the Dover coastal waterways are proof that the land was once connected to France in prehistoric times.
Dover lies in the middle of a 16-mile stretch of white cliffs, with approximately 8 miles extending to the left and right of the ferry port. Linked to World War II and Shakespeare's play, King Lear, the cliffs overlook a beautiful beach. When you're traveling to Dover, a walk along the cliff's coast line is an awe-inspiring memory that you will never forget.
Dover Castle
On top of The White Cliffs of Dover, the Dover Castle is alive and well. Today, the experience is curated and designed to entertain and educate tourists about this gorgeous British landmark. The castle is at the center of a nautilus-like network of roads and buildings, making it the main attraction in the heart of the town.
Secret wartime tunnels at the castle are so well preserved that at one point, they were designated as one of 12 Regional Seats of Government to be occupied in the event of nuclear conflict. If you're traveling to visit this remarkable cavernous space, you must be over 18 due to the uneven grounds. Visitors should be in good health to climb 80 steps without support in the event of an emergency. While a lift is available for tourists to use, tour guides are responsible for ensuring your safety, which is why being in good health is necessary to explore these strategically designed tunnels.
Sightseeing and Nature Walks
When planning your itinerary to Dover, making note of the weather and grounds is so important. It can get rainy and cold so make sure to pack clothing items that you can layer. A balm for wind chap, sunscreen protection and hand lotion should accompany an extra pair of walking shoes. The cliffs and coastal paths are breath-taking landmarks so doubling up and packing supportive insoles is a good idea to make sure you are prepared to take the sight-seeing all in comfortably.
Dover Museum
Dover is known as "The Key to England" due to its critical location as a major ferry port across the English Channel to France. The Dover Museum was founded in 1836. In 1991, the Victorian facade of the museum was pushed back behind a new 3-story building. It features galleries that house the internationally praised Dover Bronze Age Boat, historical Saxon jewelry from the British Museum and an annually rotating exhibition space on the first floor. Of course, the museum has a lovely gift shop complete with souvenirs, books, home goods, games and toys.
A Ferry to France
A ferry boat departs from Dover and arrives at Calais, France throughout each day. Double-check the times because the departures change seasonally. Available all year long, the best time to visit the ferry as a tourist is in the summer's sunny months. The travel time to and from France ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 hours and there is a special needs terminal complete with coffee and tea kiosks to accommodate your ferry ride.
More places to Visit during your trip to Dover:
Samphire Hoe is a nature reserve at the foot of the world-famous white cliffs in Dover known for spectacular views.
Canterbury is a majestic England treat that features Roman-built walls that encircle a medieval cathedral city. Complete with cobblestone walkways, the Gothic stained glass windows at Canterbury Cathedral, founded 597 A.D., make this memorable sight a must-see when traveling to Dover. Shopping, costume, food and drink are plentiful here.
St. Margaret's Bay is a seaside village with a gorgeous beach at the bottom of Dover's white cliffs. Only 21 miles from France, access to this stony beach is via a narrow, winding road. Fun fact: The church lighthouse is where Thomas Edison tested the first electric light in 1859.
Visiting the grandeur of Dover, England is a great investment for a fascinating travel experience. The culture is rich with the enduring spirit of those who have lived in the small, bustling town over time. If you are looking forward to more unique shopping experiences in Dover, make sure to plan your trip around the Outdoor Bluebird Market every Tuesday in Dover Square. Complete with tea rooms, local food vendors, natural wonders and memories to last a lifetime, a trip to Dover can be a fantastic culture-rich weekend getaway.
Minibus and Coach Pricing and quotes Dover
Here's a snapshot of our fleet and pricing:
mini-bus: Starting from £333/day
mid-size coach: Starting from £555/day
35-passenger coach: Starting from £1056/day
49-passenger coach: Starting from £1130/day
double-decker: Starting from £1567/day
Upcoming events 2025 Dover
Here are eight events scheduled in Dover, UK, for 2025, with no more than two events per month:
February 15–19, 2025: Dover Stage Festival at The Nye Hall, Duke of York's Royal Military School. A brand-new festival featuring classical ballet, character, lyrical, modern, tap, vocal, and musical theatre performances.
Federation of Festivals
March 2–8, 2025: Dover Film Festival 2025 at the cinema in Dover Museum. A week-long showcase of films highlighting local history and culture.
whitecliffscountry.org.uk
March 7, 2025: Dover at Night 2025 across various historic and creative spaces in Dover. An evening event from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, celebrating Dover's rich heritage with art, craft, storytelling, digital projections, music, dance, and drama.
Maison Dieudonné
March 15, 2025: Holi Festival Celebration at Holiday Inn Dover. Embrace the spirit of Holi, the festival of colors and love, with themed activities and dining experiences.
Holiday Inn Dover
March 22, 2025: Steak Night at Holiday Inn Dover. Enjoy a special evening featuring a selection of expertly cooked steaks.
Holiday Inn Dover
March 24, 2025: Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at Holiday Inn Dover. Treat your mum to a delightful afternoon tea experience in a cozy setting.
Holiday Inn Dover
June 16, 2025: Father’s Day Dinner Steak Night at Holiday Inn Dover. Spoil your father with the perfect steak on a Sunday evening.
Holiday Inn Dover
November 2025 (date to be confirmed): Mamma Mia Night at Holiday Inn Dover. Dance and jive the night away at a dazzling ABBA-themed event.
Holiday Inn Dover
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