Dover
with its key geographical location as the nearest point to France
from England has always been a natural place to fortify against possible
foreign invasion.
Dover Castle sits strategically upon the famous White Cliffs of Dover,
overlooking the port and town far below.
Originally an Iron Age hill fort, and still housing a Roman lighthouse
and an Anglo-Saxon church, part of a Saxon fortified settlement.
|
Dover
Castle |
After
the Norman, William the Conqueror raised the first Dover Castle in
earth and timber soon after invading England in 1066 the scene was
set. From then on the castle was garrisoned uninterruptedly until
1958, a continuous nine-century span equalled only by the Tower of
London and Windsor Castle.
Secret
Wartime Tunnels were dug deep beneath the castle, within the 'White
Cliffs' themselves.
Today you can tour the Secret Wartime Tunnels. Dover Castle, the Roman
Lighthouse and much more. There is much to see, an average visit taking
a whole morning or afternoon. Dover Castle is open daily from 10 a.m.(09:30
in August) until late afternoon.
The Castle although not far from the town centre is up a very steep
hill. If you don't fancy the climb there is an hourly public bus or
a plentiful supply of taxis.
The
White Cliffs Of Dover
The famous White Cliffs of Dover are best seen from out at sea, not
when you're standing on top of them!. For those who aren't able to
view them from a ferry or cruise ship there is a pleasure boat service
that runs out of the port in Dover.
For those who have their own transport there is a White Cliffs Visitor
Centre up on top of the cliffs run by the National Trust. This is
just to the east of Dover Castle, there is a parking charge if you
are not a member of the National Trust.
There is a great view from here down into the ferry port directly
below, a very nice cafe/restaurant and short or long walks can be
taken along the cliffs.
About 45 to 60 minutes walk along the cliffs is South Forland Lighthouse
which is open for tours for much of the year. |
 |
|
