Dover is a beautiful coastal town on the southeastern coast of England. With its striking white cliffs and stunning views of both the English Channel and the North Sea, it’s no surprise that Dover is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.
The town is full of fascinating history, great food, and plenty of things to do. To help you make the most of your time in Dover, here’s my list of the 15 best things to do in Dover, England. From exploring the Dover Castle and taking a ferry trip across the channel to sampling the local cuisine, you’re sure to find something to make your visit to Dover unforgettable.
Visit the White Cliffs of Dover
You won’t want to miss the breathtaking views of the White Cliffs of Dover! Standing majestically on the coast of Dover, England, the White Cliffs have been an iconic landmark for centuries.
The cliffs stretch for over eight miles along the coastline, and offer an incredible vista of the English Channel. From the top, you can watch the ships sailing past, and marvel at the stunning views of the shoreline.
The White Cliffs are a protected site of special scientific interest, so you can be sure of seeing some of the most beautiful and unique wildlife in the region. You can also explore the many walking trails that wind their way along the cliff tops, with plenty of places to take a break and admire the stunning scenery.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a more adventurous hike, you’ll find something to suit your needs. The White Cliffs of Dover are truly an awe-inspiring sight that you won’t want to miss!
Explore the Dover Castle
Exploring the Dover Castle is a must-see when visiting England, offering stunning views of the town and beautiful architecture.
Built in the 11th century, the castle is considered the largest castle in England and was used as a beacon of defence against invasion.
It served for centuries as a stronghold guarding the gateway to the English Channel.
Today, visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, including a secret wartime tunnel, and the Great Tower, which houses many artifacts from the castle’s long history.
The castle grounds are also home to a beautiful medieval church, St Mary in Castro, as well as extensive gardens and an interactive museum.
With so much to explore, the Dover Castle is an amazing place to spend a day learning the history of the town and admiring its stunning architecture.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk around the grounds or a thrilling exploration of the castle’s secret passageways, a visit to the Dover Castle is sure to be a memorable experience.
Visit the South Foreland Lighthouse
Perched atop the white chalk cliffs of Dover, the South Foreland Lighthouse is a must-see destination for visitors to England. Built in 1843, the lighthouse was a revolutionary beacon of its time, introducing the first electric light in the UK.
The lighthouse is now a museum, featuring a restored stone tower and old-fashioned keepers’ quarters. Visitors can climb up to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular views of the English Channel.
The South Foreland Lighthouse is also home to a variety of activities, such as guided tours, interactive exhibits, and a gift shop. Themed tours, such as the “Lighthouse at Night”tour, are especially popular, allowing visitors to explore the historic building after dark.
Visitors can also take part in workshops and activities aimed at children. With its stunning location and fascinating history, the South Foreland Lighthouse is a great place to explore and learn about the rich maritime heritage of Dover.
Take in the Views from Langdon Cliffs
Take in the breathtaking views from Langdon Cliffs, where you can see the English Channel and the French coast from the top of the white chalk cliffs.
With its expansive view of the nearby coast, Langdon Cliffs is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It’s the perfect place to soak up the stunning scenery and take some amazing photos.
The cliffs offer a variety of walking trails that are suitable for all ages, as well as a variety of activities such as rock climbing, bird watching, and fossil hunting. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an exhilarating adventure, Langdon Cliffs is the place to be.
There are several viewing points scattered around the cliffs, so you can take in the incredible views from every angle. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset or gaze out at the horizon for a truly magical experience.
Take a Ferry Trip Across the Channel
Embark on a memorable journey across the English Channel and experience the beauty of the French coast as you take a ferry trip.
Dover, England is the ideal starting point for your adventure. From the White Cliffs of Dover, you can board a ferry to Calais or Dunkirk. The ferry ride is full of gorgeous views of landscapes and seascapes, with a clear view of the White Cliffs of Dover. You can also spot the lighthouses that dot the English Channel.
Enjoy the salty sea breeze and the fresh air as you make your way across the Channel.
The ferry trip across the English Channel is an unforgettable experience. You have the opportunity to watch the hustle and bustle of the port and the seagulls soaring high above.
Once you reach the French coast, you can take in the sights of the quaint towns and villages, as well as the stunning cliffs and beaches. Enjoy a meal or a drink in the ferry’s restaurant, or sit back and take in the views from the deck.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing journey or an adventurous trip, a ferry trip across the English Channel is sure to be a memorable experience.
Visit the Dover Museum
Explore Dover’s rich history by visiting the Dover Museum, where you can get an up-close look at the town’s unique past. Located in the heart of the city, the museum is housed in a beautiful stone building, and is home to many artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Dover’s past.
Inside the museum, you can find a plethora of artifacts from the time of the Anglo-Saxon kings, to the 16th century, to the present day. From Roman coins to ancient pottery to historic documents, the Dover Museum has something for everyone.
The museum also offers interactive exhibits to help bring Dover’s history alive. Through these exhibits, visitors can explore the town’s unique past in a way that is both educational and entertaining. With audio and visual presentations, interactive displays, and hands-on activities, the Dover Museum is sure to provide a memorable experience.
Plus, the museum is free for all to enjoy, making it a great addition to your list of things to do in Dover!
Take a Tour of the Town Walls
Discover the legacy of Dover’s town walls by taking a tour of the ancient fortifications. The walls, originally built over 800 years ago, still stand in the heart of Dover.
Experience the history of the town as you stroll along the city walls, all the while taking in stunning views of the English Channel.
Along the way, you’ll come across several towers and gateways, each with its own story to tell.
Stand atop the walls and take in the commanding view of Dover’s old town. Get a glimpse of the past as you walk through the long-standing fortifications and discover the secrets that lie within.
From the ancient Norman Castle to the Victorian Clock Tower, you’ll see some of Dover’s most iconic landmarks.
With its rich history and unparalleled views, a tour of Dover’s town walls is a must-do when visiting the city.
Explore the Dover Transport Museum
Take a journey back in time and investigate the fascinating history of Dover’s transport at the Dover Transport Museum. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of transport in the area, with a particular focus on the famous Dover Hovercraft.
Visitors can explore the history of the hovercraft from the 1950s through to the present day, as well as learn about the development of other forms of transport in the area. The museum also has a great collection of vintage buses, cars, and motorbikes to explore.
There’s even a vintage bus simulator ride, where visitors can take a virtual ride on a vintage bus. The museum also has a variety of interactive exhibits, from a workshop to an interactive map of Dover.
A visit to the Dover Transport Museum is a great way to explore the history of transport in the area, and to discover the stories of the people who built and used it.
Enjoy the Seafront Promenade
Stroll along Dover’s picturesque seafront promenade for breathtaking views of the English Channel and a unique glimpse into the town’s history.
The promenade is lined with elegant Georgian townhouses, quaint cafes, and a variety of attractions that will keep visitors entertained.
Take a leisurely stroll or hop on a horse-drawn carriage to explore the bustling harbor, pier, and its many shops and eateries.
The promenade is also home to a range of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Dover Regatta and the Dover Sea Festival.
From here, you can take in breathtaking views of the majestic White Cliffs of Dover, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
And, of course, don’t forget to take a few photos of the iconic Dover Castle, which is situated atop the cliffs.
So, whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll or an afternoon of sightseeing, the seafront promenade in Dover is the perfect place to enjoy the sights and sounds of this charming coastal town.
Experience the Nightlife
Experience the lively nightlife Dover has to offer and let the vibrant atmosphere transport you to another world.
From pubs and clubs to bars and breweries, Dover is the perfect place to party the night away.
Enjoy a night of dancing with friends at one of the many pubs or sip on craft beer and listen to live music at the local brewery.
Dover has something for everyone looking for a good time.
The nightlife in Dover is always changing, so be sure to check out what’s new.
Whether you’re looking for a night of fun and excitement or just a casual evening out, Dover has it all.
Enjoy a relaxing evening out at a local restaurant or bar, or get in on the local scene with live music, DJs, and more.
With a variety of options to choose from, the nightlife in Dover is sure to have something for everyone.
Shop at the Market Square
After experiencing the nightlife of Dover, England, it’s time to get ready for a day of shopping. The city’s Market Square is the perfect place to find unique and interesting items from local vendors.
Located in the heart of Dover, the market has been around since the Middle Ages and is the perfect place to explore and pick up a souvenir or two.
Market Square is filled with stalls selling everything from handmade jewelry to locally grown produce. Many of the vendors have been in business for generations and have a lot of knowledge about their products. It’s a great place to wander around and find something special for a friend or a special treat for yourself.
It’s also a great place to chat with locals and learn more about the city. Shopping at the Market Square is a great way to support local vendors and get a taste of traditional English culture.
Stroll Through the Shops
Wandering through the shops of the Market Square, you can find everything from traditional English wares to modern items. The shopkeepers are friendly and knowledgeable, and the goods are of high quality.
Whether you’re looking for a souvenir to take home, or want to find something unique and special, this is the place to go.
The atmosphere in the Market Square is lively and vibrant. You will find a variety of stalls and shops, from traditional antique stores to modern boutiques. There are also plenty of places to sit and enjoy a cup of tea or a snack, as well as street performers to entertain you.
Whether you’re looking for a bargain or a special item, this is the place to go.
Sample the Local Cuisine
Exploring the Market Square, you won’t want to miss the chance to sample the local cuisine. Dover is known for its variety of traditional English fare, from fish and chips to steak and kidney pie.
A stroll through the town’s traditional pubs and restaurants will provide a taste of some of the area’s best dishes. The Dover Market Square is a great place to sample the local delicacies, with a range of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
From savory dishes to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone in Dover’s culinary scene. You’ll also find plenty of food stands, bakeries, and cafes dotting the square, offering a wide selection of snacks and meals.
Whether you want to indulge in a hearty meal or just snack your way through the day, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite. With its rich history and variety of offerings, it’s no surprise that sampling the local cuisine in Dover is one of the best things to do when visiting the area.
Go Birdwatching
Come and experience the wonders of birdwatching in Dover, a perfect spot to spot some of England’s most beautiful feathered friends.
Whether you’re a dedicated twitcher or just a casual observer, Dover can offer you a wealth of sights and sounds.
From the cliffs of St. Margarets Bay to the hidden nooks and crannies of the Langdon Nature Reserve, Dover offers a variety of habitats for a variety of birds, including seabirds, garden birds, waders, and more.
The best time to go birdwatching in Dover is in the early morning, when the birds are out in full force and the skies are clear.
You can spot a variety of species of birds including the colourful Dartford Warbler, the majestic Marsh Harrier, and the tiny Goldcrest.
The views of the English Channel and the rolling hills of the Kent Downs provide a perfect backdrop for a morning of birdwatching.
Whether you’re an experienced birder or a novice, Dover has something for everyone.
Visit the Historic Churches
Immerse yourself in Dover’s rich history by visiting its many historic churches. The most famous of these is St Mary’s Church, which is located in the heart of the town.
This stunning church dates back to the 11th century and is home to an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including a 15th-century font and a 12th-century stone effigy of a knight. Take the time to explore the building’s many features, including its captivating stained glass windows and ancient carvings.
The city also has some other stunning churches, including St James’ Church, St Margaret’s Church, and St Nicholas’ Church. Each of these buildings has its own unique history, and you can learn more about them by taking a guided tour or spending some time reading up on their history.
You can also take advantage of the free admission to the churches, allowing you to explore them at your own pace. Visiting Dover’s historic churches is an amazing way to get in touch with the city’s past.
Conclusion
I’ve had an amazing time exploring Dover, England and all its amazing sights.
From the White Cliffs of Dover to the South Foreland Lighthouse, there’s something for everyone.
I especially loved the ferry trip across the channel – it provided a stunning view of the coast.
I also enjoyed strolling through the shops and sampling the local cuisine.
Birdwatching was a great experience too, and I was able to admire the historic churches.
Overall, I had an amazing time in Dover and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a wonderful vacation spot.