Dover Castle and the Secret Wartime Tunnels

Dover Castle is situated in Kent and has played a key role in the history of England. This castle has often been described as the “Key to England” due to its important defensive role that it has played throughout history.

Parts of Dover Castle were thought to be started around the Iron Age, if not earlier, but it was during the reign of Henry II that most of the castle actually took shape. Both the inner and outer baileys as well as the keep were built during this time. This was one of the last rectangular keeps ever built.

Dover Castle first came under siege in 1216 by a group of rebel barons from France.
They breached the walls, but were ultimately unsuccessful in taking the castle.

Dover was taken by parliamentary trick during the English Civil War, so it avoided most of the ravaging suffered by other castles during the time.

During the Napoleonic Wars, Dover Castle went through some major changes as extra defenses were added and underground barracks were constructed to house more soldiers. These were the only underground barracks ever built in Britain.

The Secret Wartime Tunnels at Dover were of great importance during the Second World War. During this time, the tunnels were converted in an air-raid shelter and later into a military hospital and command centre.

Today, Dover Castle and the Secret Wartime Tunnels are owned by English Heritage and a major tourist attraction in Britain. You can explore all the history of the castle and tunnels for free with the Great British Heritage Pass.

Planning your visit to Dover Castle and the Secret Wartime Tunnels

Dover Castle and the Secret Wartime Tunnels is open: