how to travel to dover

How to take a Day trip to Dover from London

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: July 21, 2023

Plan your perfect day in Dover from London with our practical tips and guide to the best tours and transport options.

Do you want to get from London to the Cliffs of Dover? The iconic sight of the chalky, surf-battered cliffs is unmissable for many who spend time travelling in the UK. If you’re one of them, you really do need this guide!

Covered is all you need to know when you want to organise a London to White Cliffs of Dover day trip. If you’re wondering what’s the best way to get to Dover from London, is Dover worth visiting or whether you can book a prearranged White Cliffs of Dover day trip from London, read on to find out all the insider info.

If you fancy taking a day trip to Canterbury and Dover from London or if there are Dover Castle tours from London we’ve got options for that too. Though you may decide to include Leeds Castle on your itinerary as well – or even instead. 

At the end of World War II, the White Cliffs of Dover symbolised freedom for those returning from Dunkirk. The stunning sight would also have greeted the Romans when they invaded Britain in ancient times. 

For the full lowdown on organising a day trip to the Cliffs of Dover from London, read on. By the end of this piece, you’ll be fully equipped to make an informed decision about which route to take. We begin with things to do in Diver before looking at the options for those who want to make a London to Dover day trip by booking an organised tour. 

The White Cliffs of Dover 

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Things to do in Dover

Dover is located on the south coast of England, on the eastern side. It belongs to the county of Kent, which is known as the ‘Garden of England’. 

Sights to see in Dover of course include the iconic White Cliffs. What else might Dover have to offer? Read on to find out about Dover Castle, the town centre, a local beach and of course the White Cliffs themselves.

The White Cliffs are a very famous landmark. The dramatic contrast of the stark white chalk faces set against lush green grass and the stormy sea is an unforgettable sight. At the top, the area is also abundant in local wildlife. Plus pretty wildflowers in spring and summer. 

On the clearest of days, you should be able to see France in the distance. It’s only around 20 miles away across the English Channel. People swim between the two fairly regularly, often for charity. For the best views, follow the route towards South Foreland Lighthouse. 

Check out this National Trust guide to walking in the White Cliffs area .

Dover does of course have its own magnificent fortress. This impressive mediaeval structure is vast, and boasts a colourful and very royal history. 

If you want to discover Henry II’s palace, plus its wartime tunnels and 12th century structures, you can pre-book your ticket via Get Your Guide . If your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours before without a penalty. 

St Margaret’s Bay is just a few miles from the National Trust visitor centre at the famous cliffs. If you want to sample British beach life, take a walk or drive here to see the gently curving bay flanked by chalk cliffs. 

There’s a traditional English pub here too, plus a row of photogenic, pastel-painted beach huts on the western side. 

In Dover town centre, you can see buildings backed by pale cliffs before you even reach the National Trust site. Other attractions include Dover Museum and a Roman Painted House . The former charts Dover history, while the latter was only discovered in 1970!

The top 5 day trips from London to Dover

• Duration: 9.5 hours
• Destinations: White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury
• Departure time: Varies
• Departure point: TBC
• What’s included: Minibus transport, tour guide, free time to explore
• What’s not included: Lunch, extras, hotel pick-up

If you want to visit the Dover Cliffs from London and see Canterbury, this is without doubt the easiest way to do it. This organised day trip takes you to the famous cliffs on the Kent coast, and to the county capital to see the historic cathedral there. You’ll also make stops in the seaside resort of Deal and in a typical Kent village.

Even in a country like England that’s packed with ancient buildings, Canterbury cathedral stands out. It’s the most significant of all in some ways, as Christianity in the UK was first established here. During the day you can also spend time as you like in the city, see the White Cliffs and pass Dover Castle. 

CLICK TO BOOK HERE

• Duration: 10 hours
• Destinations: White Cliffs of Dover, Canterbury, Leeds Castle and Greenwich
• Departure point: Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SH
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, Leeds Castle entry, Thames boat ride

If you really want to pack it all into one day, just book this one! As well as Canterbury, Leeds Castle and Dover, this one also includes a ride on the river Thames from Greenwich back to central London.  

The 10-hour Cliffs of Dover tour from London ensures you see a great range of sites of historic significance. Including Canterbury cathedral and the city, Leeds Castle and the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. You can also take snaps of those iconic chalky cliffs and Dover Castle. 

• Duration: 4 hours
• Destinations: White Cliffs of Dover
• Departure time: 10:00
• Departure point: Cruise Terminal 1, Lord Warden Square, Dover CT17 9EQ, UK
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, bottled water

This half-day tour is aimed at those on cruise ships or ferries calling at Dover – or those who are staying in the coastal town. So do note that it doesn’t include travel from London! It does, however, include stops at Warren Country Park and St Margaret’s Bay for the best views of the cliffs. 

As well as the White Cliffs of Dover, you’ll also see several other key sites. These include Samphire Hoe nature reserve, which is beneath Shakespeare’s Cliff. Also included on the itinerary are the Spitfire and Hurricane planes at the Battle of Britain Memorial.  

• Duration: 8 hours
• Destinations: White Cliffs of Dover, Sandwich, Deal Castle & Canterbury
• Departure time: 08:00
• Departure point: Dover Cruise Terminal, Western Docks, Dover CT17 9DQ, UK

If you want to sample a Sandwich in the Kent location of the same name – or snap a picture of the classic Ham (hamlet) and Sandwich (town) sign at Finglesham – then book this trip. During this Dover day trip you’ll also see a Kentish village, the Battle of Britain Memorial, Deal Castle and seaside resort and Canterbury . 

Please note that this tour is also aimed at those staying in Dover, or those whose cruise ships stop at the port. So travel from London isn’t included. 

• Duration: 7 hours
• Destinations: To be agreed
• Departure point: Bromley South train station
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide & entry fees (as agreed)

If you’d like to decide your own itinerary, then booking a day trip with John England tours is a great option. John will pick you up from Bromley South station, which you can reach by rail from London Victoria .

What you see and do is then up to you! Dover Castle can be included, or you may prefer to take in Canterbury. You can of course opt to view the White Cliffs of Dover, or to call at another location in Kent. The choice is yours. 

How to get to Dover from London by car, coach or train

At-a-glance: Train from London stations to Dover Priory train station (1 & 3 min+) several trains per hour; + bus, taxi or walk to the White Cliffs

If you want to arrange your own White Cliffs of Dover day trip from London, then you might be thinking about taking the train there. Train times vary a lot, so if you do choose this route then pick your train carefully! Prices also vary, so book in advance if you can for cheaper fares.  Click here to book your train ticket with the TrainLine.com

Trains also depart from various London stations, including St Pancras, Charing Cross and Victoria. You would then need to get a taxi or bus from the station to the cliffs. The shortest journey time is around 10 minutes by taxi. The walk would take well over an hour, while a local bus can get you there in about 40 minutes. 

Tip – The local taxi firms only accepted cash when we recently visited (June 2022) so take enough money to cover taxi fares.

At-a-glance: Coach from London Victoria to Dover town centre (3 hours+) several coaches per day; + bus, taxi or walk to the White Cliffs

There’s a considerable journey time involved when getting to Dover from London by coach. The trip will take three hours, plus you need to add on a bus or taxi ride or a long walk (of over an hour).

For that reason, this option is not recommended. 

At-a-glance: Drive from London to the White Cliffs of Dover (1.5 hours+); postcode CT16 1HJ

Theoretically, it’s possible to drive from London to Dover in around 90 minutes. In practice, though, it’s likely to take much longer. It could take 2.5 hours plus. Anyone who’s driven in or around London can tell you how hard it is to predict journey times! If you do drive, head for the National Trust visitor centre, where there is paid parking available. 

The advantage is that you can drive directly from door to door. You may need a rental car , though – and to pay the Congestion Charge for London. During a spring or summer’s day – especially at weekends or on a bank holiday – do expect traffic queues leading from London towards the south coast in any direction.

Dover day trip FAQs

Whether you can do Dover in a day from London depends very much on how you travel. Taking the train or an organised tour is the simplest and most reliable way to see Dover in just one day. 

In fact you can also book day trips that include other locations like Canterbury cathedral or even Greenwich in southeast London. Castle to visit include Deal, Leeds or Dover. You may also like to stop for a bread-based lunch in Sandwich or explore a coastal resort or village. 

If you’re able, take a walk from the National Trust visitor centre towards South Foreland Lighthouse to see the White Cliffs of Dover properly. With lots of local flora and fauna to spot along the way, this is a great way to discover all the area has to offer. 

Whether you want to look out for wildlife while gazing at the famous White Cliffs, explore the medieval castle, wander through the town or spend the day by a pretty bay, Dover is a great place to visit. It’s also an essential destination for anyone interested in royalty or military history. 

For visitors from overseas exploring the UK, the English Heritage pass offers great value for money. It’s ideal for fans of history, archaeology and culture who want to explore England. 

Once you’ve paid for the pass, it’s valid for nine or 16 days, and allows you entry to well over 100 ancient castles, historic structures and other sites of interest such as priories, Roman sites and stately homes and gardens. 

Find a full list of the attractions English Heritage pass holders can enter here . You can also buy your pass via this link.  

Whether you were wondering how to go to Dover from London, is Dover Castle worth visiting or what sort of Dover tours from London are available, we hope this post has answered all your questions.

Dover is one of the top day trips from London by train, car or organised tour. The sight of the cliffs means you’ll never forget your day trip to Dover. A visit to any of the other sites mentioned in this guide can only make it an even more significant experience, too!

• 17 day trips from London
• 12 Best day trips from London by train
• Things to do in south east England
• 5 Must visit Historical Treasures in south east England
• 7 Castles to visit near London
• Brighton Travel Guide

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Ultimate guide to visiting the white cliffs of dover.

They may call to you via the wavering notes of Vera Lynn, the bucket list of a friend, or even the National Trust brochure – but the fact remains that, whatever draws you to the White Cliffs of Dover, these are one of England’s classic sights.

Situated along the Kent coast in the south of the country – with France a mere hop, skip and a jump away – it’s easy to see why these sleeping limestone giants remain etched into the national imagination.

Giving stunning views across the channel, some epic clifftop strolling and plenty of opportunities to enjoy more of Kent’s attractions on their doorstep, the White Cliffs of Dover make for an ideal day or weekend trip, especially if you’re coming down from London.

I’ll go into the details of how to get to the White Cliffs in Dover, as well as why you should visit them, the best way to see the cliffs, what else you can do there and where you can eat and sleep nearby below, because this really is my ultimate guide to visiting the icons that are the White Cliffs of Dover!

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Why Visit the White Cliffs of Dover?

Well if you hadn’t cottoned on already, the White Cliffs of Dover are a classic English icon!

Etched into the post-war national consciousness, thanks to the jingoistic lyrics sang by Vera Lynn, the White Cliffs remain famous across the country not least thanks to the amazing views they provide.

Now owned and managed by the National Trust, these great limestone cliffs are safe from development and industry and instead boast some incredible hiking opportunities and bucket loads of fresh coastal air.

Vast and wild, the White Cliffs of Dover are nevertheless not that far both from the port town of Dover itself, as well as many of Kent’s other top attractions and coastal spots.

This makes visiting them as part of a wider exploration of the county totally accessible and easy.

Otherwise, if you’re just looking for some fresh air and a break from the city, then it’s hard to overlook these coastal giants as part of a great day trip.

Have I convinced you yet?!

When to Visit?

There’s no question in my mind that the best time to visit the Dover White Cliffs is during the summer season, when the UK’s good weather allows you to get the nicest experience from your time there.

This is especially true if you want to walk along the White Cliffs, take in the view of France or hit the beach in Kent either before or after!

After all, there’s a lot of great ones nearby to choose from!

My favourites include Margate, Broadstairs and Whitstable, otherwise the nearby historical gems of Deal, Canterbury and Hever Castle are hard to overlook too!

How Long to Spend There?

One full day is enough to explore the Cliffs of Dover, as you can easily walk along them and admire the view in an afternoon.

If you’re looking to experience some of the surrounding activities in Dover – including the famous Castle and War Tunnels – you can absolutely create a brilliant and jampacked day itinerary here that includes both history and nature.

If you’ve got longer to spare, then I highly encourage you to take a weekend, or even longer, to explore all there is to do in the county of Kent.

Dover is really just the tip of the iceberg here, as from the Medieval city of Canterbury to the golden sands and kitsch charm of Margate, the wonderful seafood of Whitstable plus all the vineyards, castles, walks and cycle routes, there’s no end of fun to discover in this southeastern county of England.

Learn more in this list I wrote about the best places to visit in Kent .

How to Get to the White Cliffs of Dover?

The White Cliffs of Dover are just a short distance outside of, yes you guessed it, the coastal town of Dover!

With a large port and harbour, thanks to its proximity to the French coast, Dover has quite an industrial feel to it and, outside of the Castle and the War Tunnels (which are both excellent by the way), probably doesn’t offer that much for the visitor.

However, if you’re looking to get to the White Cliffs using public transport, then Dover Priory is the spot to head for.

Regular trains arrive at Dover Priory, with the most popular route being from London St Pancras – part of a highspeed service.

Slower trains also leave from London Victoria and tend to be slightly cheaper, so if budget over time is more of a concern for you, then you may opt for this route.

Otherwise, I’d go for the St Pancras option, where fares cost between £25-35 and the ride takes just over an hour.

In order to get the best prices, I always recommend booking your train tickets at least a few days in advance, preferably a bit more, and using the excellent website Trainline .

Trainline’s split-fare technology guarantees you the cheapest fares and their handy app allows you to store your e-tickets on your phone, meaning you don’t have to mess around with collecting tickets at the station.

I also really like Trainline’s journey planner feature, which allows you to track whether your train is on time and also lets you know when it’s time to get ready to disembark.

For further discounts, you may consider getting a Network Railcard.

You’ll pay an annual fee to get this railcard, but once in your possession, you normally get up to a third off trains in and around London and the southeast.

If you live in London, or plan to be travelling this part of the country a fair bit, a Network Railcard is a sound investment.

Otherwise, you can get also get a coach to Dover from London.

Regular National Express coaches ply the route between the capital and Dover Priory and can also be booked using Trainline – making it really easy to compare coach and rail fares as well as journey times.

In general, coaches are much cheaper – some journeys as low as £5 – but they do take longer at around 3 to 3.5hrs.

If you’re heading to Dover for a day trip, this may not be the best option for you, but if you have longer it could work.

Alternatively, you can easily drive to Dover too, via the M20 and Maidstone, which takes around under 2 hours from London.

If you’re looking to rent a vehicle in the UK, I recommend Discover Cars , as they offer some great rates and are highly reputable.

Don’t forget to check out these top tips I wrote if you’re looking to hire a car on a budget in England .

With a car you can also drive right to the White Cliffs of Dover car park, which is owned by the National Trust.

You’ll have to pay for parking at the White Cliffs National Trust car park unless you’re a member (like me!).

This is really the only car park in the area and is therefore well worth the cost thanks to the easy access to the cliffs, the walking trails, a café and toilets it grants you!

You have to drive past a manned booth and barrier to access the car park here, so it’s impossible to get around not paying… just in case you were considering it!

Otherwise, it’s best to get a taxi to take you the 10 minute drive from Dover Priory to the White Cliffs Car Park – sadly there are no buses plying this route

There is a taxi rank outside the train station, but Uber is probably your best bet!

Alternatively, you can walk to the White Cliffs of Dover National Trust car park from Dover Priory – it takes around half an hour, but is all uphill!

You have been warned!

If you want to avoid all the hassle of both driving and parking, as well as navigating public transport and taxis, then the best way to visit the White Cliffs in Dover is via a tour.

There are several good options, which generally leave from London and build the White Cliffs into a more extensive Kent day trip that takes in a number of the county’s other top spots.

Check out these recommend day trip options for more info:

• From London: Tour of Kent Coast and Canterbury
• Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs
• From London: Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Dover
• Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover, and Greenwich

Best Walk Along the White Cliffs of Dover 

Once you’ve reached the National Trust Car Park, you’re then in the best place to go explore the White Cliffs of Dover, which can really only be accessed on foot.

Yes the car park is the closest you can get to these limestone giants in a vehicle, so it really is a great idea to drive this far and then enjoy the rest via the excellently maintained and well-signed footpaths.

If you make the full walk along the cliffs and back to the car park, it’ll likely take you a good few hours, so definitely take a trip to the toilet and perhaps fuel up at the National Trust café before you leave the car park!

There’s also some large handy maps here to help you orientate yourself and plan your walking via the trails.

Otherwise, head out of the car park in the opposite direction you drove in and you’ll see the well-marked trailhead.

This track actually forms part of the English Coastal Path, so you’ll see those markers on the wooden posts, as well as a number of others.

This is a single trail, which takes you all along the top of the White Cliffs, and is the best way to see them and enjoy them.

The walking trail is also the best way to take in the extremely close views of France – it’s actually quite mind-boggling to see how close it is here at only 22 nautical miles!

The trail is one-way, so you can follow it for as long as you like, before retracing your steps and heading back to the car.

The trail is not hugely strenuous, but it does undulate up and down over the cliffs and is not sealed, so do ensure you wear appropriate footwear.

The cliffs themselves actually make up the first part of the trail, but you can continue onto the National Trust South Foreland Lighthouse, which marks the end of the coastal section.

It will take you roughly 1 hour to get to the Lighthouse from the NT car park, including photo snapping time!

Otherwise, if you’re still got some stamina, I highly recommend carrying on via the trail (which moves slightly away from the coast at this point) to St Margaret’s at Cliffe – a really delightful coastal Kent town.

End Point: St Margaret’s at Cliffe

St Margaret’s at Cliffe is the perfect place to walk to from the National Trust White Cliffs of Dover car park, before you turn back on yourself and retrace your steps.

A cute little village, which some gorgeous tearooms (the Pines is a fav!) and nice houses, the beach here also shouldn’t be missed.

Once you enter the village via the trail, simply continue on down the hill (the aptly named Bay Hill) and you’ll soon see the steps down to the beach on your right.

This is a pebbly beach, but it’s a gorgeous quiet spot with a very local feel and backed by some classic, colourful beach houses.

There’s some parking here too (good to know if you’ve got someone coming to meet you rather than retracing your steps!) and there’s also public toilets and a little snack kiosk.

But the best thing is The Coastguard – a delightful pub serving good food and drinks with an outdoor space just metres from the shoreline!

It’s the ideal spot to refresh mid-walk!

Where to Stay Nearby?

If it’s getting late in the day and you want to stay somewhere near the White Cliffs, then one of the most budget friendly options is the Travelodge Dover .

Situated within the new, exciting St James retail and leisure complex, this place is just a short walk to the Dover Priory station and within 2 miles of the White Cliffs.

All double rooms here feature a king-size bed and there’s on-site restaurant and bar too.

When it comes to accommodation in Dover, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better deal.

That said, Dover is a port town and, as with many places of this nature, doesn’t have the best reputation!

Therefore, if you’re happy to drive a short distance, you’ll definitely find a more pleasant place to spend the night.

In St Margaret’s at Cliffe, St Margaret’s Hotel is a great option that’s just 1 mile from the White Cliffs, meaning you can easily get there for sunrise or sunset!

Offering excellent value and with all rooms boasting flat-screen TV / DVD player plus tea / coffee-making facilities, guests here also have access to 2 indoor pools and a sauna – winning!

For something more quirky, then this Yurt within grounds of a 17th century country inn is a great option, or this Seaside Chalet is a top pick for those who want a self-catering option for up to 6 people right near the Deal Castle beach.

5 Key Packing Items for the White Cliffs of Dover

And finally, here’s my list of the top 5 packing essentials you shouldn’t head to the beautiful White Cliffs of Dover without.

#1 A Good Camera

No doubt you’re going to be snapping like crazy in this iconic spot and need to ensure you have a good camera to do the place justice.

I love my Sony A6000 , which is light, compact and great for travel.

#2 Decent Walking Shoes

You can’t come this far and not enjoy a walk along the cliffs.

Get prepared therefore and ensure you have a decent pair of walking shoes – these cross-trainers from New Balance are ideal (and totally stylish) for the job.

#3 Light Waterproof Jacket

Whatever the time of year, you have to remember this is England after all, a country in which the heavens can open at any point!

Don’t get caught out and ensure you have a good lightweight and waterproof jacket with you!

This North Face one is perfect.

#4 Compact Hiking Day Pack

I never go on any trip, no matter how short, without a sturdy backpack to ensure I’ve got everything I need and that the weight is equally distributed across my back and shoulders.

This super featherweight Kompressor from Marmot is my go-to, because it folds down to nothing and is water-resistant.

#5 Portable Charger

And finally, I would never head off anywhere without my trusty Anker Portable Charger , which keeps my phone charged, meaning I can take all the snaps and use all the maps I need wherever and whenever I am!

Top Things to Know Before You Go…

One of the most important things to know when you visit the White Cliffs of Dover is that safety is paramount.

This includes not drinking alcohol if you’re driving back to London, as well as ensuring you walking safely along the cliffs.

The cliff edges here are high and dangerous, so although getting close to the edge may prove tempting when trying to get that epic shot, it’s simply not worth it.

Strong winds and the serious issue of erosion, which undermines the stability of the cliffs here, are real factors to consider.

You’ll also want to bear in mind the weather and make sure you pack accordingly – see my top 5 recommended items above.

In the winter months, it can be freezing, wet and windy here, so waterproofs are a must.

In summer, it can be seriously hot and there’s little shade protection, so de ensure you bring sunscreen as well as a cap or other sunhat with you.

I’d also bring plenty of snacks and water as there are no facilities along the trail and you’ll have to come prepared with all that you need after you leave the car park, before you reach St Margaret’s at Cliffe.

Ditto, when it comes to the toilets!

Where to Head After the White Cliffs of Dover?

I’ve already outlined earlier in this article that there are quite a few great places to travel in Kent that are close to the White Cliffs.

My top picks include the wonderful historic city of Canterbury , the very vibey fishing harbour of Whitstable and the slightly mad but brilliant spot of Dungeness .

Beyond the borders of Kent however, there’s also plenty more options within just a few hours, including the beautiful East Sussex spots of Rye and Camber Sands , Hastings and, if you’re big into your cliff walking, the Seven Sisters , which are part of the South Downs National Park.

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So there you have it, my ultimate guide to visiting the White Cliffs of Dover in Kent, England.

I hope I’ve inspired you to explore these iconic gems and to have a good stride out along them too!

If you’re travelling this way, they really should not be missed!

Tell me, have you visited the White Cliffs?

Got any other tips to share with fellow travellers?

Then please drop them into the comments below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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How To Visit White Cliffs of Dover From London On A Day Trip!

Categories England , London , U.K

Visiting the White Cliffs of Dover from London is one of the best day trips from London ! I remember wondering if it was possible to do a day trip to the white cliffs of Dover from London or not and I can confirm that yes, it is very possible to do in one day!

Here’s my complete guide on how to visit Dover and the White Cliffs of Dover from London on a tour, by driving and by train.

I have mainly focused on how to visit the White cliffs of Dover from London by train as I know like me, most people living in London don’t have a car, or maybe you’re visiting London from overseas and want to visit this iconic place in England!

White Cliffs of Dover from London

A few months later, I knew I had to see the Chalky Seven Sister Cliffs from London which are also amazing!

White Cliffs of Dover Day Trip Options:

1 – white cliffs of dover day tour from london.

If you are a tourist in London and you don’t fancy going from London to the White Cliffs of Dover by train, by car and by yourself, I would recommend going on an organised day tour from London to the White Cliffs of Dover!

Even if you are a local Londoner and feel this way, I would recommend that you go on a day tour like this with a guide !

This way your White Cliffs of Dover from London experience will be easy and stress-free. Not only that but on a White Cliffs of Dover tour like the ones below, but you’ll get to see more of the Kent and Canterbury area in just one day!

2 – Driving to White Cliffs of Dover from London

If you have a car then you can certainly do a White Cliffs of Dover day trip by car and have enough time to explore the cliffs.

It’s roughly a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Central London to Dover via the M2 and A2, or you can go via the M20.

Dover Parking

When you arrive in Dover there are many car parks to park in so you can do the White Cliffs of Dover walk.

If you want to visit Dover Castle then you can park in Dover Castle Car Park .

There are many car parks located near Dover Port and Dover Town Centre which will enable you to walk a bit up the coast to the White Cliffs which is all part of the experience of seeing the White Cliffs – Townwall Street Car Park, Woolcomber Street Car Park, Marine Parade Car Park, St James Retail and Leisure Park.

After you’ve parked up, follow my directions below on how to visit the White Cliffs of Dover on a day trip!

3 – White Cliffs of Dover From London by Train

I decided to travel to the White Cliffs of Dover from London by train as it’s one of the popular day trips from London by train that you can do, so here’s all the information you need to know on how to do a day trip to the White Cliffs of Dover by train!

London to Dover Train

There is a London to Dover fast train that takes 1 hour 5 minutes and there is a slower London to Dover train which takes 2 hours .

Even though the fast train will probably cost a bit more money, I would recommend taking it if you can to save time on your White Cliffs of Dover from London Day Trip!

The trains leave from Kings Cross/St Pancras to Dover Priory Station with South Eastern Railway.

For the cheapest train price, it’s best to book as early in advance as you can and avoid commuting times if you visit during the week!

I booked this ticket and all of my tickets on  The Train Line  as I find it really useful when comparing train times, journey lengths and prices like this. Have a look into tickets here !

• More Day Trip from London ideas:
• How To Visit The Seven Sisters Cliffs on a Day Trip from London!
• Things To Do in Oxford on a Day Trip From London!
• Things To Do in Brighton on a Day Trip from London!
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London to White Cliffs of Dover by Train

I am going to focus the rest of the post on how to get from London to the White Cliffs of Dover by train as this is what I did and I know many Londoners don’t have a car so the train is the best option, and it’s very accessible to do by train, just wear comfy footwear!

Dover Train Station to the White Cliffs of Dover

Dover Priory Train Station is very close to Dover Town which is why it makes it so easy to visit the White Cliffs of Dover from London by train!

I’d heard mixed things about Dover as a town and I can confirm that it’s nothing special, it’s fairly small with plenty of high street shops.

It’s a very English town that could do with a facelift, but luckily once arriving at Dover Priory train station you only need to pass through the town very briefly until you reach the coast.

If you walk all the way to the coast from Dover town you’ll come across a beach known as Marine Parade.

It is only a small stone beach with council flats and a Premier Inn Hotel  (which is a great location in Dover if you want to stay the night or are heading to Dover Port!) behind it so it’s nothing hugely special but I would recommend heading down here to start your walk to the White Cliffs of Dover.

From Marine Parade Beach,  I carried on up the footpath towards Dover port and White Cliffs, I crossed over the main road and followed the footpath around the back of some houses.

This pathway then started to incline and confirmed I was on my way to the Cliffs.

Dover Port is actually huge so the first part of the walk is walking alongside it but it’s quite interesting to see all of the boats and the hustle and bustle beneath you.

Things To Do in Dover

Dover castle & war tunnels.

You’ll notice that Dover Castle is to the right of you. I didn’t visit on my trip from London to White Cliffs of Dover but in hindsight, I should have as I have heard Dover Castle is a really good Castle to visit in England.

The War Tunnels , further along, are also a popular place for people to visit in Dover. However, if you’re just there for the walk like I was, keep on walking up the pathway.

For advance purchase tickets to Dover Castle which are a good idea when it’s busy,  have a look here for Dover Castle Tickets !

Cliffs of Dover Walk

What I really loved is that the path splits off quite a lot on this walk , you can walk on the edge of the coast for a lot of the walk along the cliffs, on a designated path, or even on the small lanes that line the coast from further back. This means that on a busy day not everyone is following each other on the same path and it won’t feel as busy.

There is a National Trust visitor centre towards the start of the walk to the White Cliffs in case you want any information during your White Cliffs of Dover from London trip but I just carried on walking past the port until I finally started to see those oh so famous White Cliffs!

If you don’t fancy going from London to the White Cliffs of Dover by Train and by yourself, and you would rather go on an organised trip with a guide, I would recommend this day trip  to see not only the White Cliffs of Dover but more of Kent too!

South Foreland Lighthouse

A good place to walk towards on this London to White Cliffs of Dover day trip is the South Foreland Lighthouse , you can’t really miss it as it’s a gorgeous white lighthouse. It has a Tea Room inside called Mrs Knotts and a nice lawn to sit on and relax.

I would think that a lot of people use this point as their turnaround point as it took me just over one hour to walk to from the port of Dover to the Lighthouse, however, I decided to keep on walking a bit further.

St Margarets Bay

This time you’re taken away from the coast as there’s private property that lines the coast (lucky them!) so you need to walk down a small lane but before you know it there’s a gate where you can cross back over to the edge of the coast and see all the way to the next town – St Margarets Bay .

I continued to walk from the Lighthouse to St Margaret’s Bay as I thought it would be nice to see the beach and get some lunch. To be honest, St Margarets Beach isn’t overly nice but this is a good spot to get some lunch, use the free public toilets and have a breather.

There is a pub at St Margaret’s Bay called The Coastguard. This seemed really popular and sells your usual British Pub food- Fish and Chips is probably one of their most popular dishes I would think. It’s also Britain’s nearest pub to France apparently!

When I went in the Summer there was also a cafe/shack selling ice cream, drinks, bacon and egg baps etc.

I went for lunch at The Pine Gardens Tea Room , it’s just slightly away from the coast and it was really nice.

The staff were really friendly and they had a selection of drinks, cakes, baguettes and some slightly more substantial lunches with indoor and outdoor seating so I would recommend popping in here for lunch on your White Cliffs of Dover from London trip!

How to get from the White Cliffs of Dover to Dover Town

It was then time to start the walk back to Dover town from St Margarets Bay .

I think St Margarets Bay is the perfect turnaround point when walking the White Cliffs of Dover on a Day Trip from London because it’s far enough to give you a good hike, but not too far! The walk, of course, was just as gorgeous on the way back!

It took me about 2 hours to walk back into Dover Town and I believe you can get a bus from St Margaret’s Town to Dover Town if you want to.

I rushed through the town on the way back as I wanted to catch the fast train back to London. I caught it and within an hour I was back in the busyness of London town wondering if those cliffs and that bright blue sea were all just a dream!

I had such a good day on my Day Trip from London by train to the White Cliffs of Dover and I’m so glad I ticked it off my bucket list. I saw so many families and friends having picnics on the grass by the side of the cliffs so I hope I can go back another day and do the same thing as the view is so incredible!

On a clear day, you can see France and it’s pretty cool to see all the huge boats going in and out of the port.

On the subject of France though, my phone did pick up a French mobile phone carrier so make sure you don’t have roaming on unless you have free European data as you might get charged.. even though you’re still in England!

FAQs About The White Cliffs of Dover

How long does it take to walk the white cliffs of dover.

You can walk as far or as little as you like along the coastal path once you are on top of the White Cliffs. The ideal walk is around 3 hours and this will ensure you see a lot of the Cliffs between Dover Castle and St Margarets Bay.

Are the Cliffs of Dover worth seeing?

Yes! They are a really famous place in the UK and a beautiful place in the UK to witness for yourself, especially on a clear and sunny day!

What is the best way to see the White Cliffs of Dover?

Head towards South Foreland Lighthouse and Dover Castle and from here you will see the coastal path that takes you to the edge to see the White Cliffs of Dover.

Can you walk along the White Cliffs of Dover?

Yes! There is a coastal path running along the cliff tops so you can see the White Cliffs ahead of you and behind you.

How do you get to the White Cliffs of Dover?

Head to Dover by car or by train. Once in Dover head towards Dover Port and follow the footpath up the hill and onto the cliff top.

To SEE my trip to Dover, check out my YouTube Vlog here !

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Wednesday 10th of May 2023

I have been wanting to visit the White Cliffs of Dover for such a long time now and I never thought of doing a day trip from London. Very informative post and great blog! Thank you!

TheWanderingQuinn

Thursday 11th of May 2023

I felt the same before I went, I didn't know how close it was to London and doable in a day trip. It does take a good amount of walking but its definitely possible and a lovely day out of London :)

Wednesday 26th of October 2022

I can confirm that the castle is well worth as visit but be warned, as it was built to be defensive, dominate the town and to have a good view of the Channel and anything coming from France it's on the top of a VERY steep hill.

Monday 7th of September 2020

Hi Ellie, I came across your blog when I was researching on Dover. Your blog was super informative. We visited Dover last week (less crowded than usual). We went off the beaten path and loved it! One thing we realised is that there was a much shorter route (for those who want to avoid steps and inclines) right in front of the Visitor center (my BIL had visited last year and mentioned there were maps available in the center) Unfortunately, we didn't go there and did the longer route. We had a couple of excellent spots to click snaps of the Cliffs (Cliffs as well as the small beach, beautiful view) since we took the scenic route. On the way back, we found the shorter route which gave us enough time to grab a coffee and sit on one of the slab seats overlooking the port (peaceful!). And yes, we did walk the waterfront around the pier which was an added bonus on our way back. Keep traveling and writing!

Hello, I'm so glad you did the walk recently and enjoyed it! Thank you so much for the advice about the shorter way, I bet it was nice to walk that way back and have time for a coffee like you said. Thank you so much for the info! :)

Monday 22nd of July 2019

Hello. We are taking a cruise from Dover to Scotland. We need to go from London to Dover to meet our ship which sails at 6pm. We're staying in Kensington so is St. Pancras the best station for us to catch a train? Also, my wife can't walk a lot so what is the best way to take her to see the cliffs? Many thanks!

Tuesday 23rd of July 2019

Hi Jack, Direct Trains also leave London Victoria station which is closer to you in Kensington. They take 2 hours so I would suggest leaving from there instead of St Pancras as it’s easier to get to :).

Tuesday 23rd of April 2019

HI, I was trying to buy the expresses train tickets fr the link you've provided; however, the only trains shown are the 2hr 36mins ones.

Did I miss something? can you please advise?

Maybe they aren’t running on the dates you’re looking at or the times. I use the train line for all of my trains in the UK as it shows every train. Are you looking from all London stations? :)

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Sitting atop the famous white cliffs of  Dover since the 12th century and described as the ‘Key to England’ is the formidable Dover Castle. But there is far more to Dover Castle than the castle itself! The secret wartime tunnels, roman lighthouse and St Mary in Castro church all make Dover Castle one of the best castles to visit in England.

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Guarding the shortest sea crossing between England and continental Europe for over 900 years, Dover Castle has never been conquered. It also lays claim to being England’s largest castle covering an area of around 30 acres and contains England’s largest and most expensive keep.

Fortifications on the site began almost 2,000 years ago when the Romans built a hill fort. The present-day castle began to take shape during the reign of Henry II who had the great keep and fortified walls constructed. Since then the castle has stood guard atop the white cliffs defying all attempts to topple it.

HIGHLIGHTS OF DOVER CASTLE

Impressive though the castle and its history are, there is much more to see and do at Dover Castle. From its role in the defence of Britain during World War II to the Roman lighthouse and St Mary in Castro church there is plenty to see and do to keep you busy all day.

ROMAN LIGHTHOUSE

The Romans erected a pharos, or lighthouse, inside their fort in about 125AD. They also built a second lighthouse across the Dover harbour but only the one on the grounds at  Dover Castle remains.

The lighthouse is octagonal in shape and built in five layers out of ragstone and flint with brick archways. The first four layers were built by the Romans and the top layer was added around 1430 to act as the bell tower for St Mary in Castro  church beside it. The lighthouse is in pretty good condition considering it is, after all, almost 2000 years old! Inside it is hollow and you can go in and look around.

ST MARY IN CASTRO CHURCH

After the Romans moved out the Saxons moved in and around 1000 AD they constructed the church of  St Mary in Castro, which was later remodelled in the Victorian period. The church was used by the garrison of Dover Castle  and held sacred relics during medieval times.

The building was restored in 1582 but then fell into decay again in the 17th century and was little more than a crumbling shell by the 18th century. After being used as a coal store the church was finally restored in 1862 and today the interior includes a mosaic alter and tiled floors.

GREAT TOWER

The Great Tower was used for royal ceremony and to house King Henry II’s travelling court but the most important use was as a military post as the castle was garrisoned uninterruptedly from 1066 until 1958. From 1740 through 1945 the castle’s defences have been updated in response to every European war involving Britain.

The interior of the Great Tower, or keep, has been renovated but has been set to look like it would have when the castle was in operation and is very well done. You can spend quite a long time wandering through rooms set up to look like cooking and storage rooms, great dining halls, long damp passageways between rooms that overlooked the grounds, and even cosy bedchambers that had roaring fires going in their fireplaces.

It can be quite a surprise if you aren’t expecting it to smell smoke and then upon entering one of those bedchambers see the glorious open fire, especially if you visit on a cold or wet day. It’s so well done you can almost imagine yourself back in those times.

If you climb right to the top of the great tower you are rewarded by beautiful views of the castle grounds, the town of Dover and out across the English Channel.

SECRET WARTIME TUNNELS

In the Middle Ages, tunnels were constructed under Dover Castle to be used as a protected line of communication for the soldiers stationed in the northern outposts and to allow for the garrison to gather before attacks without being seen.

Later during the Napoleonic Wars, the tunnels were expanded to prepare the castle for a French invasion. Seven tunnels were dug to serve as barracks for soldiers who had already filled up the castle and the town. These tunnels were capable of holding 2,000 troops and are the only underground barracks ever built in Britain.

In WWII the tunnels were used again as the centre from which   Admiral Ramsay  and his team worked around the clock for nine days on   Operation Dynamo –  the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force and French troops from the beaches of Dunkirk. It was estimated that 45,000 troops could be brought back to Britain but on May 26th there were about 400,000 troops awaiting rescue on the beaches.

By June 4th, nearly all were evacuated with 338,000 men brought back. Admiral Ramsay used as many Royal Navy vessels as the could gather, along with a now-famous flotilla of ‘little ships’- the civilian and merchant boats. Churchill called it a ‘ miracle of deliverance ‘.

During the Cold War, the tunnels were expanded again to form a Regional Centre of Government in the event of nuclear war but with the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the need for this facility decreased. In the early 1990s, it was decommissioned and areas of the tunnels were open to the public.  When visiting you have to take the guided tour.

It’s a really good tour and well-timed to keep you moving, but without being rushed as you visit communication centres, shelters and admin areas. There were also many places along the tour where they projected video along the walls of the tunnel sometimes making it seem like you were in the room as actual events played out as the shadows of the officers went about their duties. This all helps to tell the story of how the tunnels were used during World War II.

UNDERGROUND HOSPITAL

 Part of the tunnels cut into the rock underneath Dover Castle and behind the famous white cliffs was converted into a hospital in 1941. Visitors to the hospital today follow the story of an injured pilot fighting for his life and the men and women who worked to save people’s lives. The tour uses a sound and light show to try to give visitors an inkling as to the conditions in the hospital as bombs dropped outside. You see several rooms as they would have been during World War II, including the kitchens, operating areas and dormitories.

MEDIEVAL TUNNELS

The medieval tunnels were dug during and after the siege of 1216. The castle was under siege by Prince Louis of France who was invited to take over the English crown by barons fighting King John. The castle withstood the siege and remained one of the few parts of Eastern England to remain loyal to King John.

The medieval tunnels were used to offer improved and covert defences to the castle to ensure the ‘Key to England’ would not be turned and the country unlocked.  Today the medieval tunnels wind under the castle and visitors can explore along them, peering out at various points past cannons.

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO DOVER CASTLE

Information last updated December 2019

HOW TO GET THERE

Dover Castle can be found at  Castle Hill Rd, Dover CT16 1HU .

The nearest station is Dover Priory (southeastern) which is about 25 minutes walk away from the castle. Buses 15, 15X, 80, 80A and 93 all stop less than ten-minutes walk away from the castle.

Free parking is available within the castle.

HELPFUL LINK:

• If you need an app that will navigate you around whether walking, driving or using public transport and even works offline then click for a guide about   how to use Here WeGo .

OPENING HOURS

Opening hours are 1000- 1800 from March to September, 1000-1700 in October and 1000-1600, only at weekends, for the rest of the year. The castle does open during the week to coincide with school holidays. Please check the Dover Castle website for full opening times .

Whilst the keep, wartime tunnels and some other parts of the castle are indoors, you will spend a large part of the time outside during your visit. It may, therefore, be advisable to visit during more pleasant weather if possible.

We would recommend you aim to spend at least half a day at the castle, but you can easily spend most of the day there.

HOW TO BUY TICKETS & SAVE MONEY ON ADMISSION

Basic admission prices are £20.90 for adults, £12.50 for children 5-17 years and £18.80 for over senior citizens and students. One carer per disabled visitor can visit for free. A family ticket for 2 adults and up to 3 children is £54.30. Gift-Aid tickets which allow the castle to reclaim tax for UK visitors cost 10% extra.

If you are travelling by train to the castle   you may also be eligible for great savings with the   2 for 1 London offer by Days Out Guide . This offer is not available all the time but it is well worth a quick look on their website to see if it’s available for when you’d like to visit.

Entry to the castle is free for English Heritage members . Membership is £60 for an adult for 1 year with discounts available for students, senior citizens and family memberships.

Overseas visitors can purchase an English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass which allows unlimited access to English Heritage properties for 9 or 16 days. A 9-day pass costs £35 for 1 adult, £60 for 2 adults and £65 for a family. A 16-day pass costs £43 for 1 adult, £70 for 2 adults and £75 for a family.

ACCESSIBILITY

As a military installation, Dover Castle was not built for accessibility but as many areas as possible have been updated to be made accessible, however, the underground hospital and the great tower above the ground floor are not accessible without climbing stairs. Some areas of the castle involve steep slopes which may be difficult to navigate; these are clearly marked on the maps.

A land train runs around the site offering transport between the key parts of the castle site.

For full accessibility details please visit the Dover Castle Accessibility page.

IS DOVER CASTLE WORTH THE VISIT?

As one of the best-preserved castles in England, Dover Castle is worth a visit just for the castle. But once you add in the church, lighthouse and the history of the secret wartime tunnels and underground hospital, the whole site elevates to a new level. As long as you expect to be there for at least half a day, but preferably the whole day if possible, you can explore all the different parts of the castle.

See what others think of this attraction on Trip Advisor .

ADD TO YOUR DOVER ITINERARY

The closest point in England to Continental Europe, Dover has long been seen as the key to England. The castle dominates the town and was used defensively right up until after the second world war.

The Battle of Britain Memorial is the national memorial to “The Few” who defended the United Kingdom against the Luftwaffe during World War II and played a major role in ensuring the UK was not invaded.

The famous White Cliffs of Dover are a great place to walk and see this iconic symbol of England for yourself.

While exploring the White Cliffs, take a trip down into Fan Bay Deep Shelter , a network of tunnels which supported defensive gun batteries above. You’ll also get to see two sound mirrors, a pre-radar, acoustic warning system of approaching aircraft.

Journey 13.5 miles along the one-third scale Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway from Hythe to Dungeness and its famous marshes and nuclear power station.

The impressive Western Heights were constructed during Napoleonic times to strengthen England’s defences. To get troops from the heights and the harbour the Grand Shaft was constructed, this contains three staircases in a helix to enable the rapid movement of troops.

RELATED ATTRACTIONS IN THE UK

Castles can be found across the United Kingdom, from ruins to castles which are still lived in, they all have a story to tell about the country’s history.

• Step further back in time to the 11th century and visit the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, and take a tour by one of the Yeoman Warders.
• The beautiful moated Bodiam Castle is a wonderful visit and what better way to arrive than by steam train on the Kent & East Sussex Railway .
• The oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle was founded by William the Conqueror in the 11 th c entury.
• Dominating the skyline of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle sits atop an inactive volcano. In its long history, it has been a Royal Residence and a prison and is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.
• Tintagel Castle has long been associated with the mythical Merlin and visitors can explore the castle ruins as well as Merlin’s Cave on the beach below.
• From Norman fortresses to medieval strongholds to the home of the current Queen – England is bursting with castles to visit. Check out these 14 other beautiful and historic castles in England !

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO DOVER

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

These are a few tours that we would recommend for your trip to Dover.

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

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Plan a trip from London to the White Cliffs of Dover

Things to do in London Day Trips from London Plan a trip from London to the White Cliffs of Dover

Imagine scenic, chalk-white cliffs and waves crashing against the shore; a multitude of boats, all of different shapes and sizes making their way out of the harbor; a majestic medieval castle rising above the cliff, overlooking the sea – this is the historical town of Dover . The port town of Dover is famous for its towering chalk Dover cliffs and the Dover Castle, also known as the ‘Key to England’ because of its formidable defensive fortifications. Dover is just two hours away or 82 miles from the hustle and bustle of London , making it an ideal destination for a day trip from London! Before you set off from London to Dover, here are a quick few things you'd like to know.

London to Dover Day Trip Experience

London to dover day trip.

Board your luxury coach to the Leeds Castle, where you will learn all about its history (and the history of its occupants, the Tudors!) from your friendly tour guide. Next, visit the ancient city of Canterbury, the setting of ‘The Canterbury Tales’ by Geoffrey Chaucer, and explore its roots in English Christianity. After a quick lunch, head off to Dover to admire the majestic chalk cliffs and the Dover Castle. Last, stop at Greenwich, from where you will embark on a ride on the serene River Thames. Don’t miss views of the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral!

Dover Day Trip Itinerary Summary

• admire the leeds castle and its beautiful estate • take in the beauty of the stained glass panels of the canterbury cathedral • visit the majestic white chalk cliffs of dover and the castle • stop at greenwich and soak in its incredible maritime history and significance • catch stunning views of london while floating serenely down the river thames recommended experiences • leeds castle, canterburry, white cliffs of dover and greenwich river boat ride • leeds castle, canterbury and dover custom day trip, london to dover day trip - know before you go, distance and duration from london to dover.

The distance from London to Dover is around 82 miles, or 77 miles from the centre of London, which can take 2 hours to travel if there isn’t much traffic. It would be a safer bet to start early in the morning to avoid traffic and to spend more time exploring the town, if you are travelling by car.

Choosing between Guided and Self Guided Tours

While self-guided tours may seem like a better option if you’re more independent and want to save money, guided tours are probably the smarter option – not only will you have a friendly and informative guide with you, but you’ll learn more about your surrounding area and may even pick up some handy tips as to where to eat and how to travel. Your trip will be hassle-free with a tour guide.

Best time to visit Dover

Dover’s climate is quite similar to the rest of the United Kingdom, and is generally pleasant year round. The best time to visit is generally from May to October, when the weather is warm and ranges from 45 to 60F. However, do note that the summer tends to be the rainy season, and showers are quite common during the late summer season.

Transport Options from London to Dover

London to dover by train.

London to Dover by train is covered by three lines- London St. Pancras, Charing Cross via London Bridge and Victoria, and Gatwick ; all of which are at least hourly trains. The St. Pancras line is the fastest, taking only 65 minutes. However, it is also the most expensive. The train from Gatwick is the cheapest option. Make sure to choose the option closest to your accommodation in London to avoid additional travel time. You can check the train timings and schedule from London to Dover here .

Duration : 65 minutes minimum

London to Dover by Bus

London to Dover by bus is a convinient and comfortable option. The London terminus is Victoria Coach Station, about 600 yards from Victoria train and Underground stations. The buses, operated by the National Bus service, do not pick-up or drop at hotels or elsewhere in London. They stop at the Dover Ferry Terminal first, and then the Dover Town Centre.

Duration : 3 hours

London to Dover by Car

London to Dover by car is approximately 86 miles and takes about 1.5 hours without traffic, if starting off from Whitehall, Westminster. A good route to take is through Old Kent Road, Eltham Road and through Greenwich. Hiring a private car ay cost anywhere between 100 to 200 GBP. This is an expensive option considering the cost of renting a car, fuel costs and parking in Dover. However, since Dover is a scenic port town, having a car at your disposal is quite convinient.

Duration : 1 hour 49 minutes

London to Dover by Cycle

Cycling from London to Dover is quite a popular option, especially for fitness enthusiasts and those looking to spend time on the road with friends. A commonly used London to Dover cycle route (no cycling trails or green lanes) is through Dartford, Rochester, Faversham and Canterbury – don’t miss wandering around the medieval city of Canterbury before relaxing in Dover!

Duration : 8 hours

London to Dover Guided Day Tours

By opting for a guided tour from London to Dover, not only do you learn a lot more than you would have otherwise, thanks to your friendly tour guide, the cost of visiting sites along the way like Greenwich and Leeds Castle is also covered. Picking this option is the best if you’re travelling with family and children.

Duration of day tour : 10 hours

Top things to do in Dover - Day trip itinerary

There's just the right number of thing to do in Dover for one day. Here are a few things to do in Dover over a day's time.

Dover Castle

This medieval castle was founded in the 11th century and is also called ‘Key to England’ due to its significance with respect to defense. The Dover Castle is the largest castle in England and it has withstood several invasions over the centuries. Its site can be dated back to the Bronze Age. Don’t miss the Royal Chapel and St. Mary in Castro within the castle!

White Cliffs of Dover

These cliffs are so named because of its chalky composition, with streaks of black flint. This eight-mile stretch offers a gorgeous view of the English strait from the top, and sandy beaches from the bottom. The Dover Cliffs have been referenced multiple times in great works of literature like Shakespeare’s King Lear, and is also an iconic landmark for sailors entering England.

Fan Bay Deep Shelter

These Secret Wartime Tunnels are a series of tunnels constructed during World War II, 23 metres down the White Cliffs of Dover. Carved in just a hundred days by the Royal Engineers, these tunnels were constructed for the Fan Bay gun batteries and was reinforced by heavy duty iron gir

La Salle Verte

La Salle Verte is a cozy spot to grab some lunch and a coffee if you’re in Dover. Located on Cannon Street, this restaurant is decorated with local artwork on the walls, and is also involved in several community projects. They even have live music in the evenings, hence falling into the list of the top things to do in Dover.

Dover Museum

Founded in 1836, this museum tells the story of Dover and its history, and included collections dating back from the prehistoric times . Don’t miss the Bronze Age boat that is estimated to be nearly 3000 years old!. The Dover Museum also has a temporary exhibition section with local art, and a section about the history of Dover town.

Tips for your London to Dover Day Trip

• If you’re visiting around late summer/early fall, be sure to carry raincoats and umbrellas, as it may rain often during this time.
• Make sure to visit the South Foreland Lighthouse , and walk along the two-mile stretch of cliffs. You’ll get to see some incredible views!
• If you’re interested in seeing more Castles, and are a little adventurous, you can walk to the Deal Castle , around 8 miles from Dover.
• If you’re on a tight schedule, it may be faster for you to travel from London to Dover by train.

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Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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The Perfect Day Trip to Dover from London

Dover is known to the world for a few reasons; it’s home to the UK’s iconic white cliffs, a dominating castle that has protected the shores of England for centuries, and it’s been a major port town dating all the way back to the Roman times! Taking a day trip to Dover from London is the perfect way to get out of the city and dive into some of England’s most fascinating history.

Feel the ocean breeze on your face as you peer out across the English Channel while standing on top of the stunning White Cliffs, descend into centuries of English history as you wander the medieval corridors of Dover Castle and round the day off with a classic English pub meal before hopping on the train back to London.

Dover is just over an hour from London by train making it the perfect day tripping option for those interested in seeing some of the English countryside in addition to your time spent in London. Read on to discover how to make the most of your epic day trip to Dover!

➤ Looking to see the best of Dover with limited time?

Check out this tour  that organises every detail of the day for you and includes more famous stops in Kent!

During your stay in London, you should also make sure to check out these epic panoramic views of the London skyline that will leave you speechless and also provide some awesome photo opportunities!

Table of Contents

For those who prefer to forget about train schedules and maps, taking an organized tour to Dover from London is a great option. Leave the navigating to the pros and enjoy a relaxing day trip through Kent .

Below you will find some of the most highly rated Dover tours that depart daily from London. The tours that we recommend also include a stop in Canterbury to explore the ancient streets and see the incredible Canterbury Cathedral.

If you prefer to take your Dover day trip on your own, skip ahead to the next section where I will walk you through the complete self-guided itinerary from start to finish!

A peek at Dover Castle from the town centre

The Best Dover Tours

Leeds Castle, White Cliffs, and Canterbury Tour – Departing London in the morning, this full day out in Kent will start off at the incredible Leeds Castle followed by a visit to the famous Canterbury Cathedral (one of the oldest cathedrals in England) and a guided tour of the town. Admire the historic buildings as you wander along the cobbled streets of this beautiful old town.

The tour then continues to Dover where you’ll enjoy a scenic coastal stroll along the White Cliffs of Dover. You’ll have plenty of time to take in the beauty of the cliffs and gaze out across the English Channel. Unfortunately this tour doesn’t include a visit to Dover Castle.

This tour includes admission to Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and the White Cliffs. Your tour guide will return you to London in the evening.

→Check prices and availability for this tour←

Dover Castle as seen from above

Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs Tour – Another good option for tours to Dover is this full day trip in Kent which is quite similar to the previously mentioned tour. Either one of these tours is an excellent choice but the only difference is that this one doesn’t include Leeds Castle.

The tour leaves from London in the morning and brings you straight to Canterbury where you have time to explore the stunning Cathedral and take a stroll along the picturesque cobbled streets.

The tour continues with a walk along the White Cliffs of Dover to witness the breath-taking views of the cliffs and look out over the English Channel. Not too far from the cliffs is the incredible Dover Castle where you will spend some time exploring while learning about its significance throughout English history.

This full day Dover tour includes admission to Dover Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and a visit to the White Cliffs.

Watching a jousting tournament at Dover Castle

English Heritage Pass

If you’re visiting the UK from overseas, it’s worth having a look at the English Heritage Pass. For a one-time fee, it allows you access to over 100 English Heritage sites including Dover Castle, Stonehenge, Hadrian’s Wall and many more.

If you plan to visit a few sites, I would highly recommend buying this pass as it will end up saving you a bunch of money!

Note: This pass is only available to non-UK residents. Tickets are flexible with free cancellation up to 24-hours before activity starts. Mobile friendly payment and easy on the go booking.

→Find more info about the English Heritage Pass←

Day Trip to Dover from London – Self-Guided Itinerary

How to get to dover from london.

Train – Trains to Dover from London depart regularly from London’s St. Pancras Station. The quickest way to get there is to take the high-speed Southeastern service that runs toward Ramsgate and get off at Dover Priory Station. The entire journey should take just over 1 hour.

→View train schedules and purchase your tickets online←

You will notice there are cheaper tickets available but these are for slow trains which take much longer and sometimes even require switching trains. To keep things simple and efficient, we recommend just paying a few extra pounds for the high-speed train.

Car – Driving from London to Dover should take just under 2 hours via the M20 depending on current traffic conditions. For full driving directions on Google Maps, click here .

Is it possible to visit the White Cliffs and Dover Castle in the same day?

Yes, it is possible. This is something we wondered before visiting Dover and we were glad that we were able to see both in the same day without feeling rushed. If you’re taking a day trip to Dover from London, you’ll want to make sure you leave early in the morning to make the most of your day.

The best option is to spend the morning walking the White Cliffs, stop for some lunch and then spend your afternoon at Dover Castle. Both attractions are very close to one another so it’s easy to access them both in one day.

A lovely view of Dover town, the White Cliffs and Dover Castle

A Brief History of the White Cliffs

Besides the fact that the White Cliffs are simply stunning, there’s also a deeper meaning behind them. The White Cliffs of Dover hold cultural significance to Britain; they are a national symbol of freedom and hope.

For centuries, the White Cliffs have been the first point of contact for those entering Britain and the last sight of the country for those crossing over the English Channel.

History of the cliffs extends back to the Roman times when Julius Caesar first set foot on the shores of Dover in 55 AD. He made mention of the cliffs by stating “a wild island with giant natural fortification”.

The cliffs have played a part in some of the most important moments in English history. They were a sign of freedom to the British soldiers who were evacuated from the beaches of Dunkirk during WW2.

They’ve been the gateway to England for visiting royalty who would have been greeted at the cliffs and then stayed at Dover Castle. These spectacular White Cliffs have been linked to wars and invasions throughout the ages and it goes without saying that they are a true British icon.

Walking the White Cliffs of Dover

Getting to the White Cliffs – Upon arrival in Dover, you’ll want to start your day off by making your way to the top of the White Cliffs. If you’ve taken the train, you should walk to the Information Centre inside Dover Museum in the town centre which is about 5 minutes away from the station.

You can pop inside for a map with directions or from there, just continue onto Bench Street which takes you toward Dover Port. You will pass through an underpass that runs under a busy road and then reach Marine Parade where you can enjoy a seafront walk.

Keep to the left and you should walk past some houses at the bottom of the cliffs. It won’t take long before you see the path that begins the incline toward the cliffs, just follow the signs.

The view from the path is very scenic and as you make your way up, you’ll see Dover Castle to your left and the ocean to your right.

It should take around 40 minutes to reach the top of the cliffs from the town centre.

Note:  There is no bus service that runs from Dover Priory Station to the cliffs. If you choose to get a taxi instead of walking you can expect to pay around £6.

You’ll walk past these houses under the cliffs

Walking along the White Cliffs – You’ll know you’ve made it to the start of the cliffs walk when you reach the White Cliffs of Dover Visitor Centre. This is the perfect place to stop in for refreshments and take a break from all that uphill walking.

The Visitor Centre is where the official path along the edge of the cliffs begins. You will notice that the path diverges and allows you the choice of walking closer to the edge or a bit further inland.

It won’t take long of following the path before you start to see the breath-taking views of the cliffs unfold before your eyes.

As you gaze out across the busy waters of the English Channel, try to imagine all the ships and historic figures these cliffs once welcomed (or in some cases, defended against.) On a clear day, you can even see France in the distance.

→Click here for a downloadable map to help guide you along the cliffs ←

Beginning the walk along the White Cliffs

Things to do at the White Cliffs of Dover

Besides going for a scenic walk, there are a couple of other things to do when visiting the cliffs. If you’re trying to squeeze a visit to Dover Castle in the same day, you probably won’t have time for everything but I will list them here just in case you are interested.

South Foreland Lighthouse – You have the option of walking the full 2 miles (40 mins) along the cliffs until you reach the South Foreland Lighthouse. There has been a lighthouse in this spot since the 14th century.

The current lighthouse has been rebuilt in Victorian times and is open to visitors by guided tour. Incredible views of the cliffs and the channel can be seen from the top. Click here to find more information on tours and activities at the lighthouse.

Mrs Knotts Tearoom – Stop here for home-made soup and sandwiches or tea and cakes at the lighthouse tearoom which is located in the cottage that belonged to the former lighthouse keepers – the Knott family. This lovely vintage style tea-room is perfectly decorated with 1950’s decor.

Cliff walk, you can see the lighthouse in the distance

Fan Bay Deep Shelter – Explore the network of WWII tunnels that exist deep within the White Cliffs of Dover. These tunnels date back to the 1940s when they served as accommodation for the soldiers who operated the gun battery on the cliffs above.

The tunnels are located on the cliffs near the South Foreland Lighthouse, see map below. Guided tours will take you all the way down (70 ft underground) through the tunnels where you will see the walls covered with wartime graffiti and listen to the fascinating stories told by your guide.

This guided tour operates every 30 minutes during the spring and summer months, visit this website to find more details. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the tunnels on a first come first serve basis. Tunnel tours are not recommended for those who feel claustrophobic in tight spaces.

South Foreland Lighthouse

Visiting Dover Castle

One of Britain’s most impressive and iconic fortresses, Dover Castle dates back to the 11th century and has played a significant defence role to England over the centuries. Of all the castles we visited in England, this one has to be the most epic!

For over 800 years, this castle has dominated the cliffs of Dover, defending the realm of England from invasions and wars. The original castle was established by William the Conqueror in the year 1066 and later expanded and remodelled by King Henry II in 1180 who added the great tower and other features that are still intact today.

Medieval vibes at Dover Castle

A network of underground tunnels were added to defend against two sieges in the middle ages and then additional tunnels were built into the cliffs to defend against French invasions during the Napoleonic times.

During the WW2 years, these Napoleonic tunnels were used once again to house the command centre for naval operations on the English Channel. They later extended the tunnels to make room for a hospital to treat injured troops.

All of these tunnels are open to visitors and are an excellent passage through time to see what life was like during the wars.

Dover Castle Tickets

Buying Dover Castle tickets is quick and easy to do online. If you’ve already purchased the English Heritage Pass , don’t worry about buying tickets because entrance to Dover Castle is included in the pass.

We decided to buy our tickets online from this website and we were happy with how easy and convenient it was to do on the go. This way, you get instant confirmation and you don’t have to print out your ticket because mobile vouchers are accepted.

→Click here to buy your Dover Castle tickets online←

Things to do at Dover Castle

There is truly so much to see at Dover Castle, you could make an entire day of your visit if you wish to. Seeing as you don’t have that kind of time, it’s best to pick a few of these activities.

When we visited, we watched a jousting tournament, spent some time at the Great Tower and then took a walk through the medieval tunnels. As we only had a few hours to spend, we sadly couldn’t see it all and a trip back is definitely in order!

Tickets: £23.97/Adult, £14.57/Child

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm daily

Getting comfortable on King Henry II’s throne

The medieval banquet hall

King Henry II’s orb and sceptre

The Great Tower – Take a step back in time as you explore the great tower that was built by King Henry II in the 1180’s. This lavish medieval palace would have welcomed royalty and important visitors, it was designed to impress.

All 3 floors of the tower have rooms that are fully furnished and decorated to recreate a 12th century palace. Take a seat on King Henry II’s throne and wander through the chambers where he once slept.

Make sure to climb the spiral staircase to the very top of the tower where epic views over the surrounding countryside can be seen. Visiting the great tower was the highlight of our day trip to Dover!

Medieval Tunnels – Descend into the maze of medieval tunnels below the castle complete with canons to defend against invasions. Get a feel for what life would have been like during a siege.

Medieval Tunnels

Underground Hospital – Take a tour of the underground hospital complex deep within the White Cliffs to experience life as a wounded solider during WWII. Check out the recreated scenes and follow the story of an injured pilot who was fighting for his life in that very hospital in the 1940’s.

Secret Wartime Tunnels – One of the most dramatic moments in English history was planned out in the secret tunnels below Dover Castle. Operation Dynamo was organized within those very tunnels.

Operation Dynamo was the epic rescue operation of the British troops from the beaches of Dunkirk, which took place during WWII in 1940. Visit the actual tunnels where the plans to execute the operation unfolded. Watch as the special effects and real footage bring this incredible rescue to life.

Roman Lighthouse – Long before there was ever a castle in Dover, the Romans built a lighthouse on the very hilltop where the castle would later be built. Dating back to the year 43 AD, this lighthouse was constructed to help guide their ships into the harbour.

This incredibly well-preserved lighthouse happens to be the oldest of its kind still standing in England. You can find it within the castle walls, next to the beautifully restored Anglo-Saxon church.

King Henry II’s bedroom

The Great Tower

PWRR Museum – Discover the official museum of the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment. Here, you will learn the history of royal regiments since the 16th century. There are fascinating artifacts on display including a scarf that was once owned by Queen Victoria. You can find this museum in the castle’s Keep Yard next to the Great Tower.

Restaurants and Cafés – There are a number of places to stop and refuel around the castle grounds. If you’re looking for lunch, try the NAAFI Restaurant which was once used by the soldiers stationed at Dover. If you’re looking for a coffee break, check out the Great Tower café which serves snacks, treats and also hot meals.

Events at Dover Castle – Throughout the year, Dover Castle holds many events and activities. When we visited, we watched a jousting tournament take place one the castle grounds which was very cool! Click here to browse any upcoming events that might interest you.

Dover Museum

If you’re only planning to spend one day in Dover, it’s likely that you won’t have time left over for the Dover Museum. If you happen to have any extra time here, it is well worth checking out for any history lovers out there.

One of the oldest museums in Kent, Dover Museum dates back to the 1800’s. You can learn about Dover’s history spanning all the way back to the Stone Age, the Anglo-Saxon era and even the Roman times. The museum showcases Dover’s history as a port town through the medieval times with a fascinating collection of artefacts on display.

One of the most impressive features of Dover Museum is the Bronze Age Boat – the world’s oldest known sea faring boat. This incredible prehistoric boat was discovered in 1992 by construction workers when they were building a road near Dover.

A beautiful view of Dover Castle from the path up to the White Cliffs

Archaeologists determined it would have been used during the Bronze Age around the year 1,500 BC making this boat roughly 3,500 years old!! This remarkable discovery was internationally recognized as it is currently the oldest boat on record.

Tickets – Free

Opening Hours – 1 Oct –  31 March: Mon – Sat: 9.30am – 5pm

1 April –  30 Sept: Mon – Sat 9.30am – 5pm & Sun: 10am-3pm

Best Historic Pub in Dover

The White Horse – There is no better way to round off a full day of sightseeing than digging into a proper British pub meal for dinner. Dover’s #1 historic pub can be found at the bottom of the hill just outside of Dover Castle grounds.

The building itself dates back to the year 1365 when records show that the cellar was used as a morgue. Stop in here to enjoy a traditional home cooked meal and a pint after long day of sightseeing.

This is where we stopped for food and drinks during our day trip in Dover and we really enjoyed this place.

Exploring the medieval kitchen at Dover Castle

What to Pack for your Day Trip to Dover

Wind Breaker – The cliffs are open to visitors year round and seeing as they are situated right on the ocean, you can expect it to be windy no matter what time of year you visit. If you visit during spring or summer, you won’t need a heavy jacket but something light to keep you protected from the wind or potential shower.

• Women’s windbreaker  
• Men’s windbreaker

Winter Coat – This is a must when visiting between the months of October – March. England is obviously cold during these months and even colder when you’re stood on the edge of a windy cliff near the ocean. A proper winter coat is definitely necessary during these months.

• Women’s winter coat
• Men’s winter coat

An epic view from the top of the Great Tower

Good Walking Shoes – You’ll be doing a ton of walking on your day trip to Dover, it’s important to have some comfortable shoes that make the long day of walking a breeze. I would suggest bringing a sturdy pair of walking shoes.

• Men’s walking shoes
• Women’s walking shoes

Water Bottle – We did our day trip to Dover in July, it was roasting hot that day (even in the wind). I actually forgot to bring my water bottle for the long walk over the cliffs, don’t make this same mistake! As you will be walking for quite a while, this is not something you want to forget (especially in the summer!)

Day Pack – You’ll be spending a full day away from London and will definitely need to bring a bag to store your belongings for the day. I recommend something compact and spacious but not too big. I love this backpack because it packs up into a small size and it’s super lightweight – perfect for day trips.

Camera – You simply cannot visit the White Cliffs or Dover Castle without a camera in hand! Click here to check out the camera that we use for all of our travel photography. We’ve had this camera for 4 years now (no, it’s not the newest one on the market) but it’s reliable, and it takes good quality photos. If you’re looking to get into travel photography, it’s the perfect entry level SLR.

You might also need: Sunglasses and a windproof umbrella (It’s England, I’ve learned to never leave home without one).

Where to Stay in Dover

If you’re tired and not keen on making the journey back to London at the end of a long day, you can find all the best available accommodations in Dover below.

►Browse accommodation options in Dover◄

Read More About England Travel

• Day Trip to Canterbury from London – Complete 1 Day Itinerary
• 10 Awesome Ways to Spend a Day Out in Kent
• The Best Tours to the Cotswolds from London
• Top 10 Things to do in Ashford
• 20 Most Beautiful Villages in England
• An Epic One Week Road Trip from London

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Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

Travel has changed my life for the better and I want to show you how it can do the same for you!

Welcome to my journey 🙂

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One Day In Dover Itinerary, Dover Day Trip From London

Planning a day trip to Dover England? This one day in Dover itinerary tells you everything to do and see, with must know tips for visiting.

The port town of Dover has been around since Celtic times. It’s a mixture of history and natural beauty.

Dover is renowned for the looming chalk white cliffs that welcome you to England, the same way the Statue of Liberty does in the United Sates.

Dover itself isn’t the prettiest English town, with a rather hardscrabble feel. But the city’s landscapes are breathtaking and its attractions will keep you busy. The ocean breeze on your face alone is worth making the day trip from London. 

Overview Of One Day In Dover Day Trip

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll see in 1 day on a Dover.

Dover Castle

White cliffs, st. margaret’s bay, dover museum, roman painted house, dover town hall.

You should allocate most of your day to the first two attractions.

Day Trip Tours From London To Dover

If you want to book a guided Dover day trip from London, you have plenty of options, some of which take you to multiple places. You can book a:

• 9 hour tour of the white cliffs and Canterbury
• 10 hour tour of the white cliffs, Canterbury Cathedral, and Leeds Castle
• 12 hour private tour of the Dover Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and Leeds Castle
• 9 hour private tour of Dover Castle from London

A Short History Of Dover

Dover is just 17 miles off the French coast.

Since England and France were frequently at war, that location meant Dover was guaranteed to be a busy trading port and strategic focal point for defense. Even Julius Caesar commented that it was “clearly no place to attempt a landing.”

Dover was first inhabited by the Celts. Later, the Romans arrived and built a sea fort. When the Romans left, the Saxons moved right in.

When William the Conqueror won the battle of Hasting and conquered England, one of his first acts was to construct a makeshift castle in Dover. The imposing castle you see today was built by Henry II and was England’s primary defensive stronghold for centuries.

Aside from defense, a medieval chronicler once said that Dover was “the key to England.” In fact, the city was the main embarkation point to and from Europe.

Kings and queens were coming and going, with elaborate ceremonies meeting and greeting them. Control of Dover was so critical that the castle was the focal point of nearly every battle for the English crown.

Medieval governments took great pains to keep the town prosperous and its defenses in tip top shape. Watling Street, the road that linked London and Dover, was the busiest street in England during the Middle Ages.

Today, Dover still remains a major port.

What To Do In Dover In One Day

Here are the best things to do on a jam packed Dover day trip from London.

Start your one day in Dover at the formidable Dover Castle. It opens at 10:00 am.

Click here to book a skip the line ticket in advance. You can also visit the castle with the  English Heritage Pass . 

This is England’s largest castle. In fact, it’s 50% larger than Windsor Castle .

The castle will warm the cockles of any fan of Medieval history. You can easily conjure up visions of knights, lords, and ladies.

The castle dates from the late 12th century and was built during the reign of Henry II, one of England’s greatest kings. Henry was determined to keep England safe from France.

Henry VII later remodeled it for artillery warfare. The castle hasn’t changed much since the 13th century. It was the last of the gigantic square stone keeps built in England.

The oldest part of the castle is the well-preserved old Saxon church, St. Mary of Castro, built in 630. It has a Roman lighthouse as its bell tower, and it’s the oldest surviving lighthouse in the UK, dating from 50 A.D.

The central keep was 80 feet tall and its curtain walls 100 feet long.

The outer wall once had 30 towers. The inner wall had 14 towers to accommodate archers. The tops of these towers were later chopped off to make room for gun emplacements, so they are a bit diminished from their prior medieval state.

Inside the keep, you’ll find Henry III’s Great Hall, royal chambers, and a stunning private chapel. As you enter, check out the medieval graffiti on the chapel walls.

Other medieval features of the castle are the formidable Constable’s Gateway, a labyrinth of ancient tunnels, the curtain walls, and towers. Weaponry and armaments are scattered around the grounds.

You can climb the Great Tower for rooftop views. On a clear day, you can see all the way to France.

The tower also has six recreated medieval rooms from Henry II’s time, complete with furnishing and wall hangings. Costumed guides are on hand to answer any questions.

There are plenty of displays to help re-create the goings on in the Middle Ages, including a multimedia presentation and an introductory film.

Today, the castle is home to the Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment and The Queen’s Regiment Museum. 

The castle will take at least a couple hours or more to explore. So, after that, you should get lunch before heading to the White Cliffs. I would keep it a short one so you have adequate time to poke around the town itself afterward if you want.

You can check out Aspendos Dover for Mediterranean food, Il Rustico for Italian fare, or grab some Lebanese take out from Momo Hub.

Alternatively, you can bring a picnic lunch and eat on the cliffs themselves (your next stop). You’ll find picnic tables at the parking lot and at the lighthouse.

After lunch, head to the towering white chalk cliffs, which are Dover’s trademark. They stretch for 8 miles along Dover’s coastline and reach up to 350 feet high.

Without doubt, they are one of the best things to do in Dover. If you’re driving you can deposit your car in the White Cliffs National Trust car park.

Take a proper stroll on the cliff trail. It’s a one way trail that’s well sign posted. Walk among the grass and wildflowers, smelling the sea air and enjoying the bucolic scenery.

But be careful. The cliff path has sheer drops that can sneak up on you.  

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can walk the entire stretch to the picturesque town of Deal. (Although that isn’t doable with one day in Dover unless you skip the castle.)

Alternatively, you can a book a half day guided local tour to see the most photogenic spots. You can find all the information on the cliff trails here .

You can also walk or drive to St. Margaret’s Bay.

This bay is at the midway point of the stretch of cliffs from Dover to Deal. There’s a “pay and display” car park facing the beach (with rest rooms).

You reach the pebbly beach by descending a stairway. You’ll have beautiful views of the cliffs from below. You may even see a pony or two.

There is a castle-like lighthouse near St. Margaret’s Bay. First lit in 1843, South Foreland Lighthouse is a National Trust Monument. 

Click here to get information on touring it. There’s also a tea room inside for snacks and drinks.

When you’re back in town, if you have any time left and need a dose of culture, head to Dover Museum . It’s housed in a beautiful arcaded building and is free to visit.

It displays art and archaeological artifacts. The museum’s main claim to fame is a perfectly preserved 3,000 year old Bronze Age boat. 

There are some displays describing Dover’s medieval history and a lovely portrait of Elizabeth I.

You could check out the Roman Painted House on New Street, another wonderful historic attraction in Dover.

Excavated I the 1970s, these ruins date from 200 A.D. They once served as a hotel for Roman officials in transit to and from Rome.

The house has wall paintings that are fairly well-preserved. They depict scenes with the Roman god Bacchus.

Maison Dieu is Dover’s Town Hall, located on Biggin Street. It was founded in 1203 as a hospital and staffed by Augustinian monks.

An impressive place with an eye catching Great Hall, it was a popular resting spot for English kings. Kings John, Edward I, and Richard I all stayed there. Henry VIII used it as a brewery and stables.

The building was fully restored in 1859 and now serves as the Town Hall. The Great Hall boasts a soaring ceiling and coats of arms.

Tips For Spending One Day In Dover

Here are some must know tips for taking a one day Dover day trip from London.

1. How To Get To Dover

• By car : 2 hour drive
• By train : Trains depart from London’s St. Pancreas Station (high speed), Victoria, and Charing Cross stations and take 1 hour. You can walk to Dover Castle from the station.
• By guided tour : You can visit Dover and Canterbury on a  10 hour guided day trip from London .
• By private transfer : You can also book a private transfer from London to your Dover hotel or the Dover cruise port

2. How To Get Around Dover

You can easily walk around the town center and to the castle. But you’ll need a car or a guided tour to get to the white cliffs; it’s a very steep walk. You can also take taxis or rent bicycles .

If you don’t feel like hiking the white cliffs, you can take a sea safari , which I’m sure kids will love. The crystal clear water offers the best view of the cliffs.

3. Where To Stay In Dover

If you want to stay overnight with one day in Dover, you have several decent options.

Maison Dieu Guest House is a moderately priced British guest house with modern bedrooms and a superb breakfast. Just outside Dover, the Marquis of Granby is a country retreat with unique bedrooms and an award winning pub.

You’ll also find a Best Western and a Holiday Inn .

4. Is Dover Worth Visiting?

Dover is 2 hours from London, but it’s definitely worth the journey. The castle is fantastic and rich in Medieval and Tudor history, and the cliffs are jaw dropping.

5. When To Visit Dover

I recommend visiting Dover late spring through mid fall. If you visit in winter, it will be cold and windy on the white cliffs. But you could literally spend the entire day inside the castle and keep busy and warm.

August, as you might expect, is the busiest month in Dover.

6. Dover Cruise Ship Terminals

Are you taking a cruise that stops or starts in Dover?

If so, you can book a half day guided tour that leaves from the cruise terminal. Or you can book a pre-cruise tour with a transfer from London .

To visit Dover castle from the terminal, you can hop on the cruise line shuttle service. It drops you off at the Castle Hill stop. From there, it’s a 10 minute walk to the entrance.

7. Places To Visit Near Dover

Dover is located in Kent County , which is known as the “garden of England.” As such, there are plenty of other beautiful towns you can visit near Dover, including Canterbury , Faversham , Rye , Deal, and Sandwich. You can get a taste of ye olde England at any one of then.

Go to Canterbury if you haven’t seen the famous cathedral. Or visit the unsung towns of Deal, Sandwich, or Faversham if you need a break from crowds.

If you like castle hopping, there are castles aplenty too: Bodiam Castle, Leeds Castle , Hever Castle , Deal Castle, Walmer Castle, and Camber Castle.

Leeds Castle was the residence of royal queens and Hever Castle was the childhood home of the ill-fated Queen Anne Boleyn.

Deal and Walmer are Henry VI’s “gun forts.” Deal is especially worth visiting. It’s a menacing and well-preserved castle that once hosted Anne of Cleves when she arrived to marry Henry VIII.

READ : Guide To The Best Castles in England

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one day in Dover itinerary. You may enjoy these other London travel guides:

• 3 Day Itinerary for London
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Best Museums in London
• Hidden Gems in London
• Guide to the National Gallery of Art
• Guide to St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Guide to Wesminster Abbey
• London Tourist Traps To Avoid
• Guide to the Tower of London
• Guide to the Churchill War Rooms

If you want to take a Dover day trip from London, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on March 9, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Dover

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Famous for its spectacular chalk cliffs, the White Cliffs, Dover is one of Britain's principal cross-channel ports. Yet despite the opening of the Channel Tunnel to Calais, many visitors to the country still choose to arrive by ferry for the magnificent views of Kent's lovely coastline.

Although many travelers pass through Dover on the way elsewhere, plenty of points of interest make this historic town well worth a visit. One of the most popular things to do while wandering the town center is visit the old town hall, Maison Dieu Hall , built in 1203 by Hubert de Burgh as a hostel for pilgrims.

Dover was heavily influenced by its Roman heritage, and you can explore a number of notable Roman-era attractions here. These include the remarkable lighthouse on Castle Hill and the Roman Painted House.

For centuries after the Romans left until World War II, when the town suffered severe damage due to its role as a naval base, Dover was a bulwark against attacks from Europe. Today, you can learn about this period in the numerous museums and historic sites and fortifications dotted in and around the town.

For more ideas on the best places to visit, see our list of the top attractions and things to do in Dover, England.

See also: Where to Stay in Dover

1. See the Famous White Cliffs of Dover

2. dover castle, 3. visit the south foreland lighthouse, 4. enjoy a walk around samphire hoe, 5. explore dover western heights and the grand shaft, 6. see the roman painted house, 7. dover museum & the bronze age boat, 8. the blériot memorial, 9. the pines garden tea room & museum, 10. take a drive to deal castle, 11. go back in time at richborough roman fort, 12. dover transport museum, where to stay in dover for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in dover, dover - climate chart.

The steep chalk cliffs of Dover are the main attraction. For centuries they have been a proud symbol of the "splendid isolation" of England and also the first sign of home for returning sailors.

They're crowned to the east by the mighty Dover Castle. The western cliffs bear Shakespeare 's name, as King Lear ended here, and the much-used quotation invoked by the sight of the cliffs, "This precious stone set in the silver sea," comes from Richard II .

The National Trust's White Cliffs of Dover Visitor Centre is the best place to begin sightseeing in the area. Perched on Langdon Cliffs overlooking Dover, this informative visitor center includes displays, interpretive signs about the area, as well as programs about its flora and fauna. It also offers superb views of five beautiful miles of coast and countryside, as well as of the maritime traffic on the world's busiest shipping lane.

From the center, it's also possible to explore Fan Bay Deep Shelter , a remarkable network of tunnels built during the early years of WWII under the artillery battery above. While a steep climb of 125 steps is involved, it's well worth expending the energy for the chance to see the fascinating "Sound Mirrors," developed even earlier in World War I as an early warning system. Guided tours are available

Thanks to its stunning views over the English Channel , the White Cliffs are also extremely popular among hikers and cyclists, with numerous well-marked trails linking the area's main attractions. There's even an annual Walking Festival , as well as hiking programs for kids.

Address: Langdon Cliffs, Dover, Kent

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-white-cliffs-of-dover

Perched high above the English Channel, Dover Castle was started in 1168 by Henry II on the site of ramparts that were already some 1,000 years old. The central Norman keep, built in 1180, houses most of the castle's exhibits, including the Great Tower with its richly furnished chambers.

Costumed guides, medieval feasts in the banqueting hall, and military re-enactments are all part of the fun. Be sure to allow additional time to explore the castle's 80 acres of grounds and its impressive battlements, with their imposing views over the Channel, views that extend over the White Cliffs and as far as France.

Also of interest in the grounds are the ruins of the Roman Lighthouse and the church of St. Mary in Castro next to Colton's Gate, built from Roman bricks by the Saxons in the year 1000 and incorporated into the castle complex.

Other on-site attractions include the superb Wartime Tunnels Uncovered . Built during Napoleonic times to provide protection from enemy fire, the tunnels under Dover Castle are open to the public and contain exhibits tracing their history. More recently, in WWII they served as HQ for the evacuation of British and French forces from Dunkirk.

Another tunnel area to explore is the Underground Hospital . This interesting exhibit features a reconstruction of the wartime surgery that served the many troops stationed in the area.

Location: Castle Hill Road, Dover, Kent

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/dover-castle/

The beautiful Victorian lighthouse perched atop the White Cliffs of Dover was built in 1843 and has the distinction of being used by Marconi for the world's first successful attempts at radio navigation. Built to warn mariners of the shifting Goodwin Sands while guiding them through the Straits of Dover, it's also famous as the first lighthouse in the world to display an electric light.

The views of the English Channel are wonderful, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to France. Inside, interpretive displays showcase the work involved to keep the lighthouse running, including maintaining the unique mechanism that made the lighthouse flash. There's also an excellent on-site tearoom that's worth visiting and boasts what must be some of the best views in Kent.

Location: The Front, St. Margaret's Bay, Dover, Kent

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/south-foreland-lighthouse

Wondering where all that chalk that was dug up during construction of the Channel Tunnel went? Well, wonder no more. Samphire Hoe is a nature reserve at the foot of famous Shakespeare Cliff , midway between Dover and Folkestone , which was constructed using the nearly five million cubic meters of dirt excavated during the building of the tunnel.

So much dirt was deposited here that this lovely nature reserve now covers an impressive and very walkable 74 acres directly on the English Channel. Now well established, it has become an important habitat for birds; insects; and a wide variety of wildflowers, including rare orchids and lavender.

It's also now one of the best places from which to truly appreciate the drama of the magnificent White Cliffs as they seem to march toward Dover in the distance. Samphire Hoe is also popular for its sea fishing.

This must-see attraction is easy to access, and features pleasant, easy-to-walk trails and viewpoints. A tea kiosk and education center are located on-site.

Address: Samphire Road, Dover, Kent

Official site: www.samphirehoe.com

Started in 1779, when the fear of French invasion was high across England, Dover's Western Heights grew to become one of the island nation's largest network of fortifications.

Consisting of numerous ditches and forts stretching along the coast from Dover Castle, it features a number of important strong points that can still be seen today. These include the massive Drop Redoubt and the Citadel , as well as the dry moats that joined them. Although entered through a narrow tunnel that involves having to stoop to navigate, it's a lovely place for a stroll, as you can follow the moat all the way around the fort. You'll also find a number of unique vantage points offering superb views over Dover. Guided tours of the redoubt are available.

The most impressive feature here, however, is undoubtedly the Grand Shaft . Consisting of a unique 140-foot triple staircase literally cut into the cliffs, this amazing structure served as a shortcut for troops stationed on the Western Heights to the town, should they be required to defend the latter.

If possible, try to time your visit for the third Sunday of each month from March through November, when the shaft is open to the public. These fascinating tours are free, but be sure to book your spot through the Western Heights official website.

Address: Drop Redoubt Road, Dover, Kent

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/western-heights-dover/

The Roman Painted House was built around AD 200 and formed part of a large mansion used as a form of hotel by travelers venturing across the English Channel. It's the finest surviving Roman Period House in England, with some 50 structures uncovered to date, including a number of unique painted walls.

All told, some 400 square feet of frescoes have survived the centuries, along with an elaborate under-floor heating system. Also on display are a variety of interesting artifacts from Roman Dover, which at the time was known as "Dubris."

A garden area is available for visitors to use as a picnic spot. The attraction is open only six months of the year, so check their website for availability.

Address: 25 New Street, Dover, Kent

Official site: https://karu.org.uk/roman_painted_house

Located in the family visitor center in Market Square , the Dover Museum houses three floors of objects and displays recounting the town's rich history, from its Roman beginnings to the modern day.

It's also home to the world's oldest known seagoing vessel, a Bronze Age wooden boat. Thought to be about 3,000 years old, the vessel is the focus of an excellent exhibit relating to that period of Dover's history.

Other highlights include an impressive collection of Saxon-era artifacts and jewelry, as well as numerous scale models depicting the town at various key points in its history such as the shelling of the town during WWII from occupied France.

Address: Market Square, Dover, Kent

Official site: www.dovermuseum.co.uk/Home.aspx

Erected in Northfall Meadow, a small woods to the northeast of Dover Castle, stands a memorial to French aviator Louis Blériot. Blériot was the first person to fly across the English Channel in 1909 in a "heavier than air" aircraft more than 100 years after an air balloon had made the trip.

The granite memorial itself is quite unique as it was built in the shape of Blériot's plane, which can still be seen in Paris at the Museé des Arts Métiers. A sister memorial marker has been erected in Calais where the pilot's adventure began.

Address: 14 Upper Road, Guston, Dover, Kent

Located in St. Margaret's Bay, just four miles away from Dover, Pines Garden consists of six acres of sustainable gardens, including a lovely cascade and adjoining lake.

Other fun things to do here include exploring the grass labyrinth and organic kitchen garden, which boasts more than 40 different species of organic fruit and vegetables. There's also a very popular tearoom on-site, along with the award-winning Pines Calyx, a conference center built into the hill using centuries-old construction techniques. Gardening-related workshops and educational events are also available.

Directly opposite the main entrance to Pines Garden is St. Margaret's Museum. This interesting museum features a good selection of WWII-related artifacts. Of particular note is Hellfire Corner. Named after the brutal air battles that took place over this section of Kentish coastline during the Battle of Britain, this excellent exhibit includes period costumes, artifacts, and an air raid shelter.

Address: Beach Road, St. Margaret's Bay, Dover, Kent

Official site: https://baytrust.org.uk/permaculture-garden

Built for Henry VIII in 1540, Deal Castle, just 11 miles north of Dover, is widely considered to be one of the finest Tudor castles in England. It's also among the earliest and most elaborate of a chain of coastal forts that extends along the English Coast stretching from Kent to Sussex.

Visitors can explore the entire castle, as much a stately home as it was a fortress, and afterwards stroll the pleasant grounds and gardens. Be sure to also spend time wandering the quaint medieval town of Deal , one of the famous defensive and trade towns that made up the Confederation of Cinque Ports. The town also boasts great walking and biking trails.

Address: Marine Road, Deal, Kent

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/deal-castle/

This English Heritage site, just 15 miles north of Dover near Ramsgate, marks the place not just where Roman rule began in the British Isles, but also where it ended. The impressive ruin of the Roman town at Richborough was where the Romans launched their successful invasion of Britain in AD 43 and also where they departed centuries later after it was no longer tenable to rule the British.

The extensive remains of the walls and defensive ditches are well worth exploring, and a fun boat trip is available (weather permitting) that traces the route taken by the Romans when they arrived. A museum and shop are located on-site.

Address: Richborough Road, Sandwich, Kent

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/richborough-roman-fort-and-amphitheatre/

Located an easy 10-minute drive from Dover town center, the Dover Transport Museum offers an excellent few hours' distraction for young and old alike. The stars here are the vintage vehicles, with the museum's large halls boasting a collection of everything from buses to taxis to cars, motorbikes, and trains.

Lining the halls are interesting replicas of store fronts and signage relating to various periods, from the time of the first public transit systems through two world wars right up to modern day means of transport. Of special interest is the maritime collection, which features displays and models relating to Dover's rich history as an important ferry link with Europe, as well as the not-so-long-ago Channel Tunnel construction.

There's also an extensive model railway layout that the kids can control themselves. Also of interest are a vintage Romany Caravan, as well as plenty of model cars to admire, and a sizable collection of artifacts relating to various periods of the town's history, from kitchenware to small appliances

Address: Willingdon Rd, Whitfield, Dover, Kent

Official site: www.dovertransportmuseum.org.uk

We recommend these charming hotels and guesthouses handy to top attractions like Dover Castle and the famous White Cliffs of Dover:

• Best Western Plus Dover Marina Hotel & Spa : This popular 4-star seafront hotel offers afternoon tea, spa treatments, and free parking for its guests.
• The White Cliffs Retreat : A good choice for its mid-range pricing, this pleasant hotel features excellent service and a variety of family apartments. A tasty breakfast is provided, and there's a pleasant lounge with a fireplace.
• Premier Inn Dover Central (Eastern Ferry Terminal) Hotel : This budget beachfront hotel features comfy beds and free parking.

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How to Get from London to Dover (+ cheap options!)

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Dover, England is one of the most beautiful places on the English coastline and a popular day trip for visitors to London.

You may have found this article because you’re wondering how to get from London to Dover, and in this guide, I’ll show you everything from how to get from London to Dover by train, the cheapest way to get from London to Dover, and the London to Dover bus options.

But why Dover?

Well, there are plenty of things to do in Dover, including Dover Castle and wonderful walks along the famous cliffs, along with a Dover Sea Safari .

There are some great pubs, a family-friendly atmosphere, and many cruises depart from here, including Disney ones!

So whether Dover is just a day trip from London for you or you’re needing to head down for longer, here are all of the ways of getting to Dover from London.

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Expert tip for all types of public transportation in the UK : the best way to figure out your best options is to click here to use Omio (free), where it’ll show you the prices, options (including buses, trains, taxis, ferries, and even flights) and help you compare the cheapest and fastest routes.

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Distance to Dover from London

At its closest drive, Dover is about 76 miles from central London on the southeast side of the city, at the “bottom” of England.

You can actually see France from Dover on a clear day!

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
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How to Get to Dover from London by Public Transportation

If you’re coming to London, one of the main London mistakes you can make is not using public transportation.

London and the rest of the UK often run on public transportation rather than driving.

Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s often cheaper and much less hassle.

If you’re interested in taking the train from London to Dover or looking into your bus options, I’ve put all of the information in one place so you can plan your trip more easily.

Don’t forget to get to your train station or bus stop early in case they change the departure point, and to leave time for delays.

The one downside of public transportation is that you don’t have as much control as when you drive.

Getting to Dover from London by Train

The train is the absolute easiest way to get from London to Dover, as you can get trains that don’t require you to change lines.

I buy the cheapest train tickets from London to Dover via Omio , where you can compare prices and times.

The prices start at about £11 for a one way ticket (called a “single” in the UK), and is a great way to see a new city for not much money.

It would cost way more than £11 to rent a car and drive down to Dover, that’s for sure!

The trains from London to Dover usually depart from London Charing Cross Station, London Victoria Station or London Bridge Station, but you can choose “London (Any)” in Omio and it will show you all of the options.

The name of the Dover stop that you’re looking for is “Dover Priory.”

It takes about 2 hours to get from London to Dover by train, which is much preferable to the bus or driving journey which I’ll talk about in a minute.

There are some train options that include changing trains, but most are “direct” and will simply stop along the way to pick up new passengers and keep going.

The earlier you purchase your tickets, the better.

There are also “peak” and “off peak” tickets, depending on the time of day you travel, so use Trainline to compare prices and consider traveling outside commuting hours if possible.

Taking the Bus from London to Dover

If trains aren’t your thing, the next option for public transportation from London to Dover is via bus.

You can book bus tickets on the Omio website, and they start from about £8.

Buses from London to Dover leave from London Victoria Coach Station, and they take anywhere to 2 and a half to 3 and a half hours as listed on the website, which can quickly balloon in bad traffic.

I would only recommend taking the bus from London to Dover if you have issues with trains, the trains are cancelled, or you are on a strict budget and the train prices to Dover have gone up substantially.

The time you will lose sitting on the bus doesn’t make up for the slight savings in most cases.

Driving from London to Dover

If you’re a visitor to London, I don’t recommend you drive to Dover.

Firstly, you’d need to rent a car and drive through London in order to get out of London and on your way to Dover, which is a terrible idea.

If you don’t have a car in the UK, you’ll want to rent one using Discover Cars for the best comparison prices.

London driving is scary even for most Brits, and if you don’t already drive on the left side of the road, it can be fraught with danger.

Driving can also take upwards of 3 and a half hours, if not more, compared to the 2 hours spent on the train.

On the train, you get to sit back, look out the window, and not worry about how much traffic there is at that time of day as you know the train lines aren’t affected by traffic!

The cost of driving from London to Dover, too, is extortionate for a visitor as you’d need to rent a car and also take care of parking costs and gas costs.

Don’t drive from London to Dover if you’re just a visitor without car access.

Taking a Guided Tour to Get from London to Dover

If you want more structure in your trip from London to Dover, you can do it by way of a guided tour.

Not only does this mean you see more, but you also don’t have to worry about your transportation as you’ll be given a meeting place and then you just have to get yourself there.

Most guided day trips from London to Dover are going to include multiple stops.

This one takes you to Dover and Canterbury, which are close to each other and both worth seeing.

This one helps you take in even more, including Dover, Canterbury, and Leeds Castle.

The thing to remember about a guided tour is that you’re sacrificing your freedom in exchange for the knowledge that someone else is in charge of helping you get places.

For some people, knowing that they can just follow along and not have to navigate themselves is pricless.

For others, it’s frustrating.

Knowing what kind of traveler you are is going to help you decide on the best way to get from London to Dover and back again!

Want more UK travel help? Check out these guides!

• Exactly How to Get to Brighton from London
• Exactly How to Get to Disneyland Paris from London
• Exactly How to Get to Paris from London
• Exactly How to Get to Canterbury from London
• Exactly How to Get to Windsor from London
• Exactly How to Get to Hampton Court Palace from London
• Exactly How to Get to Stonehenge from London
• Exactly How to Get to Cambridge from London
• Exactly How to Get to Oxford from London
• Exactly How to Get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour from London
• Exactly How to Get to Bath from London
• Exactly How to Get to Stratford-upon-Avon from London
• Exactly How to Get to Edinburgh from London

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

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1 thought on “How to Get from London to Dover (+ cheap options!)”

Any recommendations for tours from Dover back to London (maybe small group)? We arrive Dover 9/10 (Sept. 10). Some bus tours seem VERY expensive.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Dover (Kent, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Dover (Kent, England)

Near the narrowest point in the Channel, the port town of Dover rests in a cleave in the world-famous white cliffs on England’s doorstep.

Perched on those cliffs is the largest castle in the country, while the soft chalk is burrowed with military tunnels going back to the Napoleonic Wars.

Like many port towns Dover can be a little scruffy, but has loads to keep you interested.

There are National Trust properties like the South Foreland Lighthouse where Marconi conducted world-changing experiments, or Dover Museum, which has a Bronze Age ship in an implausible state of preservation.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Dover :

1. White Cliffs

The first sight of England when crossing the Channel, Dover’s White Cliffs rise to 110 metres and continue for eight miles either side of the town.

The cliffs are etched in the UK’s consciousness and referenced in culture from Shakespeare’s King Lear to old sea shanties.

On the western flank is Samphire Hoe, a country park, which we’ll cover below.

The National Trust maintains the eastern cliffs.

Getting up to the clifftop requires a tricky climb, but the path soon levels off, and you’ll be rewarded with views across to France on clear days, as well as the port and cliffs themselves from bends in the path.

If you’re feeling fresh you can walk the entire stretch to the picturesque seaside town of Deal before catching the train back to Dover.

2. Dover Castle

England’s largest castle commands the town and port from Dover’s eastern flank, and has always been trusted as the country’s first line of defence.

This roost has been fortified since the Iron Age at the latest, and there’s a vestige still standing from the 1st century in the form of the Roman Pharos lighthouse, which was later adapted as the bell tower for the intramural Church of St Mary de Castro.

The castle began to take on its current design from the 12th century in the reign of Henry II and was modified for artillery warfare by Henry VIII. In the Napoleonic Wars a network of tunnels, made up of gun positions and casemates, was dug into the cliff.

Later, this became a military command centre in the Second World War, and Admiral Bertram Ramsay conducted the withdrawal at Dunkirk from the complex.

3. Fan Bay Deep Shelter

In the National Trust site, a couple of miles along the cliff walk, there’s a system of tunnels excavated for an artillery battery in the Second World War and finally opened to the public in 2015. The battery was constructed to attack Axis vessels travelling along the Channel, while the complex of tunnels provided subterranean storage, accommodation, a generator, hospital, washroom and toilets.

These pitch-black passageways are lined with corrugated steel and you’ll have to put on a hardhat for your tour.

After the war the tunnels were filled in and forgotten until the National Trust took over in 2012 and started removing the rubble.

Also at Fan Bay you’ll be shown two sound mirrors, one from 1917 and the other from 1921. Before the days of radar these devices helped detect enemy aircraft crossing the channel.

4. St Margaret’s Bay

At the halfway point on the walk from Dover to Deal, you can descend a winding path in a gap in the cliffs to find yourself on this shingle beach with glorious views of the cliffs.

St Margaret’s Bay is as picturesque down by the water as it is when seen from the clifftop, and has a small promenade backed by a small cafe and a pub.

There has been a settlement at St Margaret’s Bay since Medieval times, and it was mentioned in the Domesday Book after the Norman Conquest.

From the 19th century, a pocked-sized resort flourished here and has received literary figures like Lord Byron, Bond writer Ian Fleming and playwright Noël Coward.

5. South Foreland Lighthouse

Shortly before you reach St Margaret’s Bay you’ll arrive at the castle-like South Foreland Lighthouse, first lit in 1843 and now a National Trust monument.

Although this whitewashed Victorian building is a wonder to behold, and has a supreme view from its lantern, it has an even more exciting story to tell.

In 1859 the South Foreland Lighthouse became the first in the world to use an electric light.

Later, Guglielmo Marconi used the tower as a radio station, receiving the first ever ship-to-shore message here in 1898, and making the first ever international transmission in 1899 between the lighthouse and Wimereux across the Channel.

The light was turned off in 1988, and you can head in to learn about the building’s scientific heritage, as well as the Knott family, a long line of lighthouse keepers who operated this signal and its 18th-century predecessor.

6. Samphire Hoe

On the coast west of Dover is a country park owned by Eurotunnel, the company responsible for the Channel Tunnel.

This is actually a piece of reclaimed land at the foot of the cliffs, started in 1988 using 4.9 million cubic metres of chalk marl rubble from the tunnel’s excavation.

The park has a wonderful perspective of the white cliff faces, and people come for walks and bike rides, and to angle from the sea wall.

There’s a lot of wildlife if you know where to look.

Peregrine falcons can be seen flying over the cliffs, which also support rock pipits and house martins.

The name “Samphire Hoe” comes from rock samphire, an edible plant that grows in large quantities on the cliffs and has become fashionable in English cuisine once more.

7. Pines Garden

On that sharp descent to St Margaret’s Bay from St Margaret’s at Cliffe, the informal Pines Garden is in six spellbinding acres.

There’s a cascade, a pond, a grass labyrinth and a kitchen garden with more than 40 fruit and vegetable species.

One of the many special things about Pines Garden is that it’s totally organic, using natural predators to deal with pest, relying on composting for fertiliser.

Look out for the Calyx a domed eco-friendly building with a turf roof, powered by photovoltaic panels and a biomass generator and used for conferences and functions.

The garden’s adjoining tearoom is open Wednesday to Sunday and there’s a small museum about the history of the settlement.

8. Dover Museum

The town’s repository for archaeology and art is an arcaded building constructed in the mid-19th century to house both the museum and Dover’s market.

The museum lost two thirds of its collection when it was struck by shelling in the Second World War and its artefacts were left open to the elements in Dover’s caves.

But despite that sad past the museum needs to be in your plans, as the second floor is taken up by a Bronze Age boat discovered in an amazing state of preservation under a road in 1992. This vessel, made of oak timbers fastened with yew stitching, is around 3,500 years old, and the museum won archaeology awards when the exhibition opened in 2000. Other worthwhile exhibitions cover the German cross-channel shelling campaign in the Second World War, cross-channel swims and Louis Blériot’s first flight across the Channel in 1909.

9. Roman Painted House

This 1,800-year-old time capsule was found by workers constructing a road in the 1970s.

The Roman Painted House has five rooms of a “Mansio”, a hostel for travelling government officials, dating to around the turn of the 3rd century.

Its value lies in its frescoes, which are supposed to be the most extensive Roman paintings discovered north of the Alps.

Elements of 28 different panels can be seen, each one with motifs relating to Bacchus, the Roman god of wine.

You can also view the Mansio’s hypocaust and check out exhibitions about Roman life in Dover.

10. Dover Transport Museum

The only transport museum in Kent, this attraction is in a cavernous shed in Dover’s Whitfield suburb.

Entering the building is like stepping into another era, to be met by a 1924 Aveling & Porter steam roller, a 1929 Dennis GL charabanc (motorised precursor to a bus) and a curvy AEC Reliance coach from the late-1950s.

There’s a genuine Romany wagon from around 1930, as well as an assortment of vintage cars like a Series 1 Land Rover from 1949 and an Austin 7 dating to 1937. This is all accompanied by an exhibition on the World Wars, including a prefab Anderson Shelter, and a model railway that grows by the year.

The museum is open Wednesdays, weekends and bank holidays in summer, and only on Sundays in winter.

11. Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens

One stop on the train on the northern outskirts of Dover are two of the city’s most cherished green spaces.

Kearsney Abbey is at a fork in the River Dour, which feeds the park’s two ornamental lakes, wrapped in informal parkland with lofty old trees.

This park used to make up the grounds of an 18th-century manor house, the last remnant of which can be found at the former billiard room, now housing a tearoom.

Russell Gardens are just across the road and is more formal, having been laid out by Edwardian landscape architect Thomas Mawson.

The prettiest sight here is the 170-metre canal pond, with a sweet boathouse pavilion and crossed by Palladian-style bridges.

Both parks have recently been allocated Heritage Lottery funding for restoration.

12. Blériot Memorial

The aviation pioneer Louis Blériot made history in 1909 when he completed the first flight across the Channel.

Blériot had three direct rivals in 1909, one of whom Hubert Latham, came close to making a crossing a few months earlier, but had to perform an emergency landing in the sea (another world first!). Incredibly, Blériot hadn’t visited Dover beforehand to work out where he was going to land, instead looking for a signal given by the journalist Charles Fontaine, waving a big Tricolour flag at Northfall Meadow.

The exact spot where Blériot’s plane came to earth with a bump on July 25 1909 has been marked with a plaque and the stone outline of a plane.

13. North Downs Way

Dover is the finishing point for the North Downs Way, a 153-mile National Trail that begins in Farnham in Surrey.

You don’t need to be a grizzled hiker to walk a section: Shepherdswell, 8.5 miles away, would be a good destination for a gentle stroll.

The trail leads you through green rambling hills, grazing the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

It’s an interesting walk, crossing a disused railway line and passing Waldershare House, dating to the early 18th century.

The house is private, but you can poke around Waldershare Church, which goes back to the 1100s and has intriguing mortuary chapels from the turn of the 18th century.

At Shepherdwell you can turn around and walk back to Dover with the sea on the horizon, or catch a train to Dover Priory for a nine-minute ride.

14. Western Heights

This extraordinary network of forts, ramparts and ditches was begun at the end of the 18th century in time for the Napoleonic Wars.

Western Heights was decommissioned not long after the Second World War, and now the site is partly maintained by English Heritage.

The defensive linchpin here is the Citadel at the western end, with a well to ensure a water supply in times of siege.

The Drop Redoubt is a fortress that was later reinforced with caponiers in the 1860s to counter the perceived threat of invasion by Napoleon III. There are soldiers’ quarters in bombproof casemates from the early period, as well as officers’ quarters, cells and a guardroom from the 1860s.

You can view Western Heights from the outside at any time, but for now the fortress can only be visited on open days.

15. Grand Shaft

When the Western Heights was being built, a solution was required to link the fortress to the harbour at the foot of the cliff to allow troops and equipment to get up or down quickly.

The answer was this amazing triple helix staircase, spiralling 50 metres through the cliffs, around a central lightwell eight metres in diameter.

The project was finished around 1807, and rumour has it that there was a strict hierarchy to the stairways: One was for officers, another for warrant officers and the third for rank and file soldiers.

As with Western Heights, opening times are restricted, but don’t miss the chance to see the Grand Shaft when it’s open.

15 Best Things to Do in Dover (Kent, England):

• White Cliffs
• Dover Castle
• Fan Bay Deep Shelter
• St Margaret's Bay
• South Foreland Lighthouse
• Samphire Hoe
• Pines Garden
• Dover Museum
• Roman Painted House
• Dover Transport Museum
• Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens
• Blériot Memorial
• North Downs Way
• Western Heights
• Grand Shaft

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Erik Jones to miss NASCAR Cup race at Dover after fracturing back in Talladega crash

Erik Jones will not compete in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Dover Motor Speedway after being diagnosed with a compression fracture in a lower vertebra of his back.

Corey Heim , the reserve driver for Legacy Motor Club , will pilot the No. 43 Toyota Camry. It will be Heim’s debut in the Cup Series.

There is no timetable for Jones to return to the seat. He will travel with this team to Dover.

From NFL plays to college sports scores, all the top sports news you need to know every day.

“Erik’s long-term health is our number one priority,” said Jimmie Johnson, co-owner of Legacy Motor Club. “It will be great to see him at the track Sunday and we intend to give him the time it takes to recover properly. I know Corey will do a great job behind the wheel for the Club. In the meantime, our thoughts are with Erik and his wife Holly – they have our total support.”

Jones was injured from a head-on crash in Turn 3 during Sunday's race at Talladega Superspeedway on lap 157. The Legacy Motor Club driver was in a seven-car draft with his Toyota teammates when the pack tightened and contact sent Jones spinning to the right.

“I don’t know if I’m all right,” Jones radioed to his team after the crash. “I need help; my back.”

After being released from the infield care center, Jones said he was sore and his back had been stretched in the crash. He later returned to the infield care center and was transported to UAB University Hospital for further evaluation. Jones was released at 11:30 local time and returned to North Carolina.

NASCAR took the No. 43 car from Talladega Superspeedway for further evaluation.

Legacy Motor Club has requested and been granted a medical waiver for Jones. It keeps him eligible for the Cup Series playoffs.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Erik Jones to miss NASCAR Cup race at Dover after fracturing back in Talladega crash

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The 50 Best Luggage Deals We’ve Seen This Month — Samsonite, Travelpro, and More Are Up to 62% Off

April isn't just for showers — it's for massive luggage markdowns, too.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of travel, whether you’re visiting an exciting new destination or rediscovering an old favorite. And there’s just something appealing about buying luggage. For me, it’s picturing that shiny, new hardside bag as it winds its way around the carousel at baggage claim before a much-anticipated vacation. But, luggage can get expensive, especially if you’re investing in quality bags that will be with you for many trips.

Fortunately, this month is chock full of deals from beloved brands like Samsonite and Travelpro, as well as go-to retailers like Amazon and Macy’s. Don't believe me? Well, there's the Samsonite’s carry-on spinner and Travelpro’s underseat carry-on that are both a generous 25 percent off right now, for starters. I also found plenty of savings on all kinds of travel bags, from sleek carry-ons and checked suitcases to duffel bags to backpacks , with discounts as high as 62 percent . Still on the fence? Keep scrolling to shop the 50 best luggage deals that you can score across the web this April — prices start at $29.

Best Overall Luggage Deals

Let’s kick things off with a mind-blowing discount of 62 percent on this Rockland 4-piece softside set at Amazon . Then, there’s this 60 percent discount on Bric’s Milano B|Y Ulisse 28-inch Expandable Spinner , which helps drop the price down to just $207 (it's normally $518). Even upscale brands like Tumi are offering sweet discounts; you can shave $340 off the wheeled carry-on , which is adorned with elegant touches like chrome details and magnetic zippers. 

• Rockland Journey Softside 4-piece Luggage Set , $83 (originally $219)
• Samsonite Pivot 3-piece Luggage Set , $280 (originally $500)
• Samsonite Hyperflex 3-piece Luggage Set , $230 (originally $500)
• Travelpro Platinum Elite First Class Luggage Set , $640 (originally $800)
• Calpak Astyll 3-piece Luggage Set , $429 (originally $715)
• Tumi International Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on , $1,355 (originally $1,695)
• Bric’s Milano B|Y Ulisse 28-inch Expandable Spinner , $207 (originally $518)
• American Tourister Airconic Hardside 2-piece Luggage Set , $94 (originally $240)

Rockland Journey Softside 4-piece Luggage Set

Best amazon luggage deals.

It’s no surprise that Amazon has some impressive luggage deals up its sleeve, starting with this 24-inch hardside spinner from Amazon Basics that’s marked down to $79. Or this adorably-sized blush pink 20-inch carry-on that comes in 10 other hues and is currently discounted to $58. Then, there’s the hardside luggage set from Wrangler that’s just $148; it will hold your coffee and charge your tablet as you make your way to your flight — talk about multitasking in style.

• Rockland Expandable Softside Luggage Set , $40 (originally $95)
• Amazon Basics 24-inch Hardside Spinner , $79 (originally $94)
• Wrangler Smart Luggage Set , $148 (originally $170)
• Etronik Travel Duffel Bag , $29 (originally $50)
• Rockland London Hardside 20-inch Carry-on , $58 (originally $120)
• American Tourister Stratum 2.0 Hardside 24-inch Luggage , $80 (originally $120)
• Tripcomp Hardshell 3-piece Luggage Set , $49 with on-site coupon (originally $130)
• Luggex 3-piece Luggage Set , $200 (originally $250)
• Sherpani Meridian 22-inch Hardside Luggage , $116 (originally $170)
• Bagsmart Carry-on Hardside Suitcase , $78 with on-site coupon (originally $103)
• Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Hardside Luggage , $271 (originally $390)
• Leaves King 5-piece Hardshell Luggage Set , $145 (originally $190)

American Tourister Stratum 2.0 Hardside 24-inch Luggage

Best samsonite luggage deals.

Samsonite fans, listen up: The brand has some seriously sweet discounts right now. Take 32 percent off this carry-on spinner that comes in four colors and has a USB port along with an easy-access battery pocket — all for just $130. Or, opt for this softsided carry-on with plenty of zippered compartments to keep you organized that's only $174. More of a duffel bag person? Check out the 30 percent discount that brings this wheeled 29-inch duffel bag down to just $161. 

• Voltage DLX Carry-on Spinner , $130 (originally $190)
• Detour 29-Inch Wheeled Duffel , $161 (originally $230)
• Novaire 2-piece Luggage Set , $370 (originally $520)
• NuRoad Carry-on Spinner , $174 (originally $290)
• Equilibrium 2-piece Luggage Set , $230 (originally $400)
• Freeform Carry-on Spinner , $150 (originally $200)

Samsonite NuRoad Carry-on Spinner

Best travelpro luggage deals.

Pilot- and flight attendant-loved Travelpro offers a tempting variety of luggage and some tempting deals to match. Conveniently, this two-piece hardside set , which includes a carry-on and checked bag in an impressive seven colors, was just slashed down to $340 (normally it's $420). Light packers can travel with just the essentials in this handy wheeled backpack that's $196 on sale, or with this underseat carry-on that will stash overnight supplies along with a laptop; it even has a USB port and heavy duty wheel housings, plus the sale price is a steal at $173 (a rare discount of almost 25 percent). 

• Maxlite Air Carry-on/Check-in Luggage Set , $340 (originally $420)
• Crew VersaPack Rolling Underseat Carry-on , $173 (originally $230)
• Platinum Elite Carry-on Spinner Tote , $272 (originally $320)
• Maxlite Air Large Check-in Hardside Spinner , $213 (originally $250)
• Crew Classic Medium Check-in Spinner , $272 (originally $320)
• Bold by Travelpro Check-in Rollaboard , $196 (originally $230)

Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Underseat Carry-on

Best calpak luggage deals.

Want a bit more personality with your luggage? Calpak is the way to go with its standout designs — like this vibrant pink rolling duffel bag ($130 on sale) or this gold marble hardside set that’s only $329 instead of $470. Either option is chic and, more importantly, super easy to spot at baggage claim. Shopping for a travel novice or want to start jet-setting with more uniform-looking gear? Calpak’s starter bundle in timeless black includes a whopping four pieces and a generous discount of 45 percent that drops the price to only $299.

• Stevyn Large Rolling Duffel , $130 (originally $185)
• Evry Starter Bundle Luggage Set , $299 (originally $545)
• Ambeur 3-piece Luggage Set , $495 (originally $715)
• Trnk 3-piece Luggage Set , $495 (originally $715)
• Gold Marble 2-piece Luggage Set , $329 (originally $470)

Calpak Evry Starter Bundle Luggage Set

Best tumi luggage deals.

Known for quality, stylish luggage (that hardly ever goes on sale), Tumi is also offering deals for discerning travelers this spring. Choose a rugged duffel bag for $499 or a surprisingly spacious tote that expands an additional 3.5 inches to become the perfect personal item (and is an impressive $100-plus off). You can also spring for this aluminum carry-on with its striking metallic finish that's available in five colors — normally $1,195, but right now, it’s on sale for $955.

• Extended Trip Packing Case , $1,195 (originally $1,495)
• International Carry-on , $955 (originally $1,195)
• Cody Expandable Tote , $359 (originally $450) 
• Mason Duffel , $499 (originally $625)

Tumi Cody Expandable Tote

Best dagne dover luggage deals.

Dagne Dover

Right now, Dagne Dover has not just one but two ways to save big on luggage. First, you can snag a discount on certain two-piece sets like the carry-on only kit with its backpack and carryall bag, on sale for $408 instead of $480. Or, you can shop the sale section for good old-fashioned discounts like 20 percent off this neoprene carryall bag or 40 percent off the about-to-sell-out Walker backpack for weekend getaways.

• Carry-on Only Kit , from $408 (originally $480)
• Traveling Fam Kit , from $447 (originally $525)
• Digital Nomad Kit , from $379 (originally $445)
• Weekender Kit , from $319 (originally $375)
• Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag , $119 (originally $150)
• Walker Backpack , $99 (originally $165)

Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag

Best macy’s luggage deals.

Classic retailer Macy’s just might steal the show this spring with its incredible discounts on luggage of all kinds. This Delsey carry-on is on sale for $144 and sporting a whopping 60 percent discount. Add some style to your jetsetting days with this timeless DKNY spinner suitcase for just $170 (normally $425) or the extra-spacious Bric’s Milano B|Y Ulisse 30-Inch Expandable Spinner in vibrant lipstick red — it’s $223 right now thanks to a 60 percent discount.

• London Fog Chelsea 20-inch Hardside Carry-on Spinner , $152 (originally $380)
• DKNY Rapture 28-inch Hardside Spinner Suitcase , $170 (originally $425)
• Delsey Shadow 5.0 Expandable 20-inch Carry-on , $144 (originally $360)
• Delsey Freestyle 28-inch Expandable Spinner Suitcase , $160 (originally $400)
• Bric’s Milano B|Y Ulisse 30-inch Expandable Spinner , $223 (originally $558)

Delsey Shadow 5.0 Expandable 20-inch Carry-on

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