Sights in Dover

Dover lies in south-east England on the Strait of Dover, the narrowest part of the English Channel, making it England’s most important port city. The striking white cliffs shape the landscape and are visible even from a great distance. The city belongs to the county of Kent and is close to the French coast, where the opposite Cap Gris-Nez is only about 34 kilometres away.

Trade links across the Channel existed here as early as the Bronze Age, as finds of Bronze Age boats and tools show. The Romans used the site as a port and military base, building lighthouses and a major road that extended deep into the interior. Later, Dover became the centre of the Anglo-Saxon Cinque Ports alliance and experienced attacks and conquests, including those by William the Conqueror or French troops.

Today Dover is best known for its castle, which stands on Roman and medieval foundations and draws visitors with its Norman keep. The town hall from the 13th century and the preserved church of St Mary the Virgin bear witness to its long history. The city remains an important transport hub between England and Europe.