Named after River Dour, the city of Dover in the United Kingdom entices visitors with its scenic exquisiteness and coaxes them to spend a few days discovering its many charms. Dover displays industrial and economic dominance in the UK by being one of the busiest harbors in the world. Moreover, its proximity to mainland Europe further solidifies its status as a strategically important port for tourism. However, situated in the county of Kent, the city isn’t just a convenient arrival point. Instead, the top things to do in Dover remind us of Britain’s fascinatingly distinct coastline and vibrant past.
Walk on the White Cliffs of Dover
The White Cliffs of Dover are arguably UK’s as well as Europe’s most iconic natural attraction. As a primary reason for tourists to come here, it is no wonder that a walk on the cliffs is among the top things to do in Dover.
Giving Dover the designation as “the Gateway to Britain,” the cliffs are an awe-inspiring sight, especially for travelers arriving by boat. It is to view this spectacle, and because Dover is closest to continental Europe, many choose to take a ferry across the channel. If planning a holiday in the region, Ferryscanner can assist in booking ferry tickets from Dunkirk and Calais in France.
The wonder of the 350-feet high cliffs doesn’t end once you arrive on land. In fact, the best part is that you can enjoy them up close via fabulous clifftop walks.
The National Trust site has several paths, some slightly inland while others nearer the edge. The most popular walk is from the Visitor Center to South Foreland Lighthouse, a roughly 40-minute one-way trip. There is also a short wheelchair-friendly route if you prefer to stay nearby.
Besides the obviously spectacular views, the paths hold little surprises for walkers along the way. There’s much flora and fauna to discover and a couple of wrecks near Langdon Hole and Fan Bay worth spotting. Another must-do attraction is a walk through the Fan Bay Shelter, an adventurous tour into a tunnel with two sound mirrors.
Visit Dover Castle
Built in the 11th century, with plenty of restorations over the years, Dover Castle is among the city’s most famous tourist attractions. Unlike several other castles in the UK or Europe that require a few hours of exploration, you need an entire day to appreciate all that Dover Castle offers.
Located on a hilltop, the castle stands at a vantage point where visitors can admire astounding views of the English Channel. Moreover, learning about the pivotal role played by the fortress in both World Wars is an equally fascinating experience. One that shines a spotlight on Britain’s animated history.
A tour of the Secret Wartime Tunnels highlights a visit to Dover Castle. These passageways, built to protect the soldiers, take you deep inside the White Cliffs of Dover. Here you can learn about the Underground Hospital constructed to treat soldiers safely. Or else, take the Operation Dynamo tour that gives insight into the Dunkirk evacuation.
The castle is also home to King Henry II’s Great Tower. Recreated to mirror its formal glory, it is an excellent occasion for children and adults to experience being a part of a Medieval palace. Visitors can also climb up the tower to admire breathtaking vistas.
Another interesting site to visit within the castle is the remnants of an eight-sided Roman lighthouse dating back to the 2nd century AD. This ancient building is among the three remaining Roman pharos in the world and is the only one in the UK.
Swim in the English Channel
Swimming across the English Channel is a considerable achievement, one that requires intense training and willpower. However, for most mere mortals, the chance to take a quick dip in it is more than enough.
Not exactly a secret, but still a bit under the tourist radar is the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing plunge in the channel near the port.
The segregated swim zone at the Port of Dover is where you can jump in and splash around in the water. Since this is a busy port, the area has buoys as markers within which adults and children can safely swim.
The water in the harbor stays calm, making it ideal for activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Moreover, local authorities regularly check the water and occasionally close the swim zone if the quality is not good.
Thrill-seekers who want a slightly more fast-paced action excursion can book a speedboat sea safari. Besides the excitement of racing on the water, the safari is an excellent chance to see Dover’s impressive coastline from out in the sea.
Alternatively, you can opt for a catamaran sail, a more relaxed and leisurely way to admire the port and its surrounding region.
Savor Scones at Mrs. Knott’s Tea Room
To plunge yourself into the British tea tradition, make it a point to visit Mrs. Knott’s Tea Room. Situated at South Foreland Lighthouse, the tea room playfully recreates a retro 1950s ambiance through its décor. There’s vintage wallpaper, wooden tables and chairs, a show cupboard full of bone china crockery, a fireplace, and an old gramophone.
On the menu here are tea-time essentials like homemade cakes, scones with jam or cream, freshly made sandwiches, soup, and chicken salad. Tea, made with tea leaves, comes in a teapot along with a strainer for pouring into individual cups.
South Foreland Lighthouse is not reachable by car. You must undertake a two-mile hike to get here. While the walk in itself is among the top things to do in Dover, the tea room is a lovely reward for completing the journey.
Presently, Mrs. Knott’s Tea Room occupies a space that was previously the living quarters of the lighthouse keeper. George Knott stayed here with his wife, Catherine Knott, and their 13 children. Interestingly, five generations of the same family have taken care of the lighthouse, initially built in the early 1800s.
The gardens surrounding the lighthouse allow visitors to appreciate 360-degree panoramic views of the surroundings. Additionally, they regularly host various children’s activities, like kite flying.
Have fun at St Margaret’s Bay
Half a day at St Margaret’s Bay is one of the top things to do in Dover that many tourists often miss out on. Somewhat of a hidden gem, the bay’s quaint character proves to be a refreshing change from the rush of the city.
Popular with photographers in the know-how, St Margaret’s Bay grants stunning views of Dover’s white cliffs and the sea. Go on a clear day, and you can relish the towering beauty of the cliffs from their base. And possibly get a glimpse of France across the channel.
The coastal scene at the bay is equally interesting. You can spend time lounging on the gravel beach or carefully go by certain sections where the waves come crashing in for a splash.
Quintessentially English, the entire region has a charming personality. The village has beautiful cottages, and the overall vibe is very picture-book-like.
The bay has ample parking. On the other hand, the road down to the beach is very steep and winding. There is a kiosk on-site serving light snacks and drinks.