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Halt, who goes there?
Welcome to Dover Castle, on the south coast of England. Founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, it has become known as the 'Key to England' due to its strategic location and historical significance.
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The Constable's Tower
The castle was constructed over centuries, but the walls that we see today were built largely by Henry III. This gatehouse, known as the Constable's Tower, defended the main entrance to the castle. Beyond this, you're inside the castle.
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The Palace Gate
For nearly 1000 years Dover Castle has proved a formidable fortress, having survived rebellions, revolution, and World War, but today, we're on a peaceful visit. Head through the main gate and let's take a look around.
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The Great Tower
The Great Tower is one of the oldest parts of Dover Castle, and stands at its very centre. The most important rooms in the castle are found here: the Royal Chapel, the Guest Hall, and on the top floor, the personal chambers of the king.
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The Guest Hall
In this hall, Henry II would have entertained foreign dignitaries. The hall was recently restored by English Heritage to resemble its original condition. Complete with wall hangings, coats of arms, and the king's Great Seal.
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The Royal Chapel
This small chapel is found on the second floor of the Great Tower, is dedicated to the English saint, Thomas Becket. The room is richly decorated with stonework and would have been reserved for the king himself.
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I can see my house from here
Up on the top of the Great Tower, we have a commanding view of the countryside, the city of Dover, and the English Channel beyond. As the point of England closest to continental Europe, Dover has always faced the threat of invasion.
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Sometimes the threat came from closer to home. Between 1216-17 the castle was besieged by rebel barons who were trying to replace King John with Prince Louis of France. Against all the odds, and one huge trebuchet, the defenders managed to outlast the siege and defeat Louis.
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Changing of the guard
As bows and arrows gave way to cannon and gunpowder, the castle's walls became dangerously out of date. During the English Civil War, and in the later Napoleonic wars, more walls and earthen banks were added to aid its defence.
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Nothing to see here…
During the Napoleonic era, tunnels had been dug under the castle into the chalk cliffs to house soldiers and equipment. During the Second World War these were reopened as the command centre for operations in the English Channel, mostly notably the evacuation of Dunkirk.
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Romans go home
Inside the castle walls is one of the oldest buildings in England. This crumbling octagonal tower is what remains of a Roman lighthouse, one of only three in the world that still stand. Its burning fires would have been a welcome sight for centurions at sea.
