Dover has some great attractions in and around the town, suited to it being the first or last place many people see when visiting the UK.
With a hire car, you’re also free to take in other highlights across Kent, a scenic county sometimes referred to as the ‘Garden of England’.
Jewel in the crown
Dover Castle is an unmissable attraction – a medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century.
It stands on the clifftops on the site of a Roman lighthouse, the remnants of which can still be seen today. You can even climb the Great Tower, built by Henry II in the 1180s, and see the rooms in this part of the castle come to life as actors play characters from the king’s court.
To top it all off, your entry ticket also includes a tour of the Secret Wartime Tunnels beneath the castle. This labyrinth was carved out of the cliffs on the orders of Winston Churchill during World War Two, because Dover was a crucial strategic defensive point.
The site housed an underground hospital where injured soldiers were brought for treatment, and it was also the strategic heart of Operation Dynamo, when thousands of troops were evacuated from the beaches of Dunkirk. Visit the reconstructed operation rooms where the rescue was planned today.
Clifftop views
From the castle it’s just a short walk to the White Cliffs of Dover, which boast walking paths suitable for all abilities. Leave your hire car at the visitor centre and continue on foot to enjoy the incredible views of the Channel – on a clear day you can see all the way to France.
Around two kilometres from the visitor centre, you’ll find Fan Bay Deep Shelter, another network of tunnels built deep into the cliffs, as part of the Second World War effort. Tours run throughout the day, with tickets available to purchase at the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
Slightly further along the cliffs is South Foreland Lighthouse, which is also open to the public throughout much of the year. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of this Victorian landmark and enjoy fantastic views from the platform, before stopping off for a sweet treat at the traditional English tea room afterwards.
Exploring Kent
With a hire car in Dover, get on the road and explore other attractions in this beautiful English county. Drive just 30 or 40 minutes north along the A2 and reach Canterbury, home to one of the country’s most famous cathedrals.
Located in the heart of the city, with parking available nearby, this world-famous pilgrimage site still attracts large crowds today. It’s open to visitors seven days a week, with guided tours running on most days, and self-guided audio tours also available.
Afterwards, be sure to check out the city’s other highlights, including the Roman Museum, Norman Castle and St Augustine’s Abbey. With car hire in Dover, all this and more is within easy reach during your visit to Kent.