Dover Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Dover with our comprehensive travel guide. From historical sites to hiking trails, culinary delights to unique souvenirs, plan your perfect trip to Kent.


Introduction to Dover

Nestled in the southeast of England, Dover is a historic town that boasts of a rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and warm-hearted locals. Dover is best known for the prominent White Cliffs of Dover, offering breathtaking views of the English Channel. The town also offers a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore, with its many hiking and biking trails, dramatic coastline, and wild countryside.

List of Places to Visit in Dover

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dover Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history. The castle was built to protect the town and is over 800 years old. Visitors can explore the medieval tunnels built into the cliffs, the Roman lighthouse, and the Great Tower, which is the tallest medieval tower in England.

An equally fascinating attraction is the Dover Museum, which tells the story of the town’s history and its connection to the sea and the military. The museum also features a unique Bronze Age boat, discovered in Dover.

Natural Attractions of Dover: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The White Cliffs of Dover are perhaps the most iconic sight in all of Kent. Towering 350 feet above the English Channel, the cliffs offer a stunning vista of the coastline stretching from Dover to Folkestone. You can explore the clifftops on foot along the South Foreland Lighthouse walk.

Dover also has several parks and gardens to explore, such as Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens, which boast beautiful landscaped gardens, serene lakes, and Victorian architecture.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dover

If hiking or biking is your thing, then Dover is the perfect place to be. Head to the Devil’s Kneading Trough, which is a natural amphitheatre created by a collapsed cave system, for a challenging hike.

Cyclists can head out along the Viking Coastal Trail, which is a 27-mile, traffic-free route that passes through picturesque towns and villages along the coastline.

Best Things to Do in Dover: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for activities to fill your days in Dover, why not try sea kayaking? The town’s coastline is perfect for exploring, with hidden coves and inlets to discover.

Alternatively, join a Ghost Tour of the medieval tunnels under Dover Castle, or book a birdwatching tour at Samphire Hoe, a unique coastal park built from the excavated material of the Channel Tunnel.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dover

Day 1-2: Visit Dover Castle and the Museum and explore the town centre. Day 3-4: Hiking along the White Cliffs of Dover and visit the South Foreland Lighthouse. Day 5: Cycle along the Viking Coastal Trail to explore the surrounding towns. Day 6: Sea kayaking trip to explore the coastline. Day 7: Shop for souvenirs in the local markets and enjoy a meal at one of the town’s many restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Dover

Must-Try Dishes

Dover is famous for its seafood, particularly Dover sole, which is a flatfish caught in local waters. Other seafood dishes worth trying include crab, lobster, and Whitstable oysters. Don’t miss a chance to try the famous Dover Pudding, a savory dish made with suet pastry, bacon, onions, and gravy.

Local Beverages

Sample local Kentish ales and cider at one of the town’s many traditional pubs. Cask Marque-accredited pubs The Three Pigeons and The Lighthouse Inn are just two great options. Also, try the Biddenden cider, which is made from locally-grown apples and is available in most pubs and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Dover: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dover offers plenty of choices when it comes to accommodation, with options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. For a truly unique experience, stay at the Best Western Plus Dover Marina Hotel & Spa, which boasts stunning views of the English Channel.

Another great option is the White Cliffs Hotel, set in an elegant 16th-century building with countryside views. Alternatively, the YHA hostel is a budget-friendly option for backpackers and solo travellers looking to make new friends.

What to Buy in Dover: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take some traditional Kentish cider or locally distilled gin, both available in most local shops. Alternatively, shop for souvenirs and local crafts, such as handmade pottery and woollen blankets, at the Dover Museum and Tourist Information Centre.

Local Culture and Customs of Dover

Dover’s residents are friendly and accommodating. It’s customary to greet locals with a polite hello and use “please” and “thank you” when interacting with them.

Best Time to Visit Dover

The best time to visit Dover is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm, and the days are long. However, be mindful that this is also peak season, and the town can get crowded, and prices for accommodation can be high.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dover

Do:

  • Explore Dover Castle and the Museum
  • Hike or bike along the White Cliffs of Dover
  • Try local seafood dishes and drinks

Don’t:

  • Litter in the parks or beaches
  • Swim in the sea along the town’s coastline due to dangerous currents
  • Overstay in the car park at Samphire Hoe as it’s closed overnight

Safety and Health

Safety in Dover

Dover is a safe town for visitors, with low crime rates. However, tourists should be vigilant for pickpockets in crowded areas, such as the train station and the town centre.

Health in Dover

There are several hospitals and clinics in Dover that cater to tourists’ healthcare needs. The main hospital is the Kent and Canterbury Hospital, with a minor injuries unit available at Buckland Hospital.

Getting to Dover: Transportation Options and Logistics

Dover is accessible by car, train, and bus. If you’re driving, take the M20 from London, and follow signs for Dover. The journey takes around two hours outside of rush hour.

For those traveling by train, the nearest station is Dover Priory, which is on the high-speed line from London St Pancras. There are regular coach services to and from London and other major cities.

Airports Near Dover

The nearest airport is London Gatwick Airport, which is 70 miles from Dover and accessible via train to London’s Victoria Station and then transferring to the train to Dover Priory.

Bus Stations Near Dover

Dover Bus Station is located in the town centre, next to the railway station. There are regular coach services from London, Paris, and other major cities.

Other Options

Ferry services run between Dover and Calais in France, with a crossing time of around 90 minutes.

How to Get Around in Dover

The best way to get around Dover is by car, although there are several taxi services available. Alternatively, there is a local bus and train network that connects the town with other major attractions and cities around Kent.

Where to Go Next from Dover: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Canterbury is a nearby city that is worth a visit, known for its rich cultural heritage and the famous Canterbury Cathedral. Alternatively, head to Brighton on the south coast, which is a popular seaside resort town with a vibrant nightlife and colourful beach huts.

Conclusion

Dover is much more than a gateway to Europe. Straddling the English Channel, it’s a town that offers an unforgettable experience, with stunning vistas, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. With this guide, you can plan a memorable trip that is not only informative but also enriching and fun.

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