Things To Do
in Dover
Dover sits on the eastern edge of Kent, facing the Strait of Dover with the iconic White Cliffs towering above the town. It is a historic port town known for its fortress, castle, and dramatic coastline, offering ferry connections to France and maritime heritage at every turn. The town blends military history with seafront scenery, cosy pubs, and a compact, walkable center that makes it easy to explore on foot.
In Dover you can wander ancient walls, enjoy sweeping sea views, and step into the stories of cross-channel travel that have shaped this corner of England.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Dover and check into your hotel, enjoying a lovely breakfast to kickstart your adventure. Spend some time soaking in the picturesque views of the White Cliffs as you take a leisurely stroll along the coastline. Take in the sea air and prepare for your exploration of this historic town.
Visit the iconic Dover Castle, which offers stunning views and a glimpse into the rich history of the area. Spend your afternoon wandering through the castle's grounds, including its secret wartime tunnels that tell fascinating stories. Don’t forget to stop by the Great Tower to see the exhibits and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Conclude your day with dinner at a charming local restaurant, savoring traditional British cuisine. As the sun sets, take a contemplative walk along the harbor, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves. This serene moment will allow you to reflect on what you've experienced so far.
After breakfast, head to the Dover Museum to uncover the stories of the town's maritime past and discover its archaeological treasures. The museum's interactive displays make learning engaging and fun. Following your visit, stroll through the lovely streets lined with historic buildings.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Roman Painted House, a well-preserved Roman building that provides insight into life during the Roman occupation. The intricate wall paintings will transport you back in time, highlighting the artistic talent of the era. Next, take a break at a local café to enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of homemade cake.
For dinner, find a cozy pub where you can enjoy local ales and classic pub fare. After your meal, consider attending a local music event or theater production to immerse yourself in Dover's cultural scene. The evening will wrap up with laughter and entertainment as you mingle with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Coffee or soft drink | $2-5 |
| 🧊Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🚆Train ticket (local ride) | $8-20 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (budget) | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic port town with dramatic cliffs and castle
- Compact, walkable center and seafront views
- Can be windy and chilly by the sea
- Seasonal crowds and port traffic can affect tranquility
Places to Visit in Dover
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic chalk cliffs meeting the sea, best captured at sunrise or sunset from cliff-top paths.
A grand fortress with imposing walls offering sweeping views over the town, harbor, and coastline.
Harbor scenes with boats, old walls, and the pale harbor lines—ideal for early morning light.
Historic lighthouse perched on the coast with expansive sea vistas and dramatic skies.
Food in Dover
Dover Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic fish dish featuring fresh Dover sole; grilled or pan-fried with lemon and capers, widely served at seaside restaurants.
Must-Try!
Traditional fried fish with thick-cut chips, a seaside staple best enjoyed near the harbor.
Seasonal sweet buns found in local bakeries, especially around Easter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near the harbor offering fresh seafood, local produce, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British people value orderly queues and polite waiting; form the line and wait your turn.
A simple handshake on first meeting; polite small talk is appreciated; keep noise at a reasonable level in public spaces.
If service is good and no service charge is included, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
Safety
Tipping in Dover
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, service charges are often included; if not, a tip of 10-15% in restaurants is common; rounding up in pubs is fine.
Cash still accepted but most places prefer cards and contactless payments; cards are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming wildflowers along the coast; breezy mornings by the sea.
Warm days with sea breezes; ferry and cruise activity increases, making the harbor lively.
Cooler days with golden light on the cliffs; excellent for long coastal walks.
Cool, often windy and wet; indoor pubs and tea rooms provide cozy refuges.
Dover at Night
Hiking in Dover
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail offering dramatic cliff views, sea panoramas, and photo opportunities.
Accessible nature reserve with trails along the cliff-base and bays for wildlife watching.
Airports
How to reach Dover by plane.
One of the UK's busiest international airports; reachable via road/rail with connections to Kent.
Major international hub convenient for southern England; frequent connections to Kent ports and routes to cross-Channel ferries.
Close to London; convenient transfers for travelers heading to southeastern England.
Smaller regional airport serving domestic and some international flights; accessible from East Kent.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and commuters; Dover hosts international visitors due to ferry routes.
Peak visitation in summer with interest in the White Cliffs, castle, and coastal scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Dover Athletic FC and local clubs participate in regional leagues; matches are popular among locals.
Village and town cricket clubs reflect England's cricket culture with weekend fixtures.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dover.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Dover; look for veggie pies, salads, and dishes that can be prepared without meat.