Dover Castle – one of the most powerful castles of Western Europe
Dover Castle is one of the most powerful castles of Western Europe. It has been the guardian of the shortest sea route from England to the Continent for many centuries. It is located on the shore of the Strait of Pas-de-Calais region, which is called Straits of Dover in England.
Dover Castle, due to its great strategic importance, has played an important role in the history of England. Its form was largely predetermined by a fort that existed on the same spot during the Iron Age, Roman lighthouse, Anglo-Saxon church and Saxon burg that were there until September 1066 AD.
Dover Castle, UK
Then, after the above date, William the Conqueror built the first fortress made of wood in order to consolidate the success achieved at the Battle of Hastings before continuing his march to London. Since then until October 1958 the castle was always guarded by an armed garrison.
The castle served as a border fortress facing the hostile lands of the Counts of Flanders and the kings of France during the Middle Ages. Henry II gave the castle concentric defensive form that includes many connected towers and walls. This was a novelty in the fortifications which had no parallel in Europe. Since then, the current shape of Dover Castle has always been a one of the symbols of royal power.
Dover Castle features a stunning look that had a strong impact on every visitor. The mighty walls and massive towers tell of a bygone time – raw and rough, but without doubt shrouded in mystery and romance. The castle offers to the tourists many incredible rooms and halls with rich decoration, and the fantastic views from the towers will give you the opportunity to make many awesome pictures that you can be proud of. Find some time and visit this amazing piece of history, you will not regret.
If you are visiting Dover from France the most obvious mode of transport is to get to England by ferry. With 3 operators offering services on this popular Calais Dover route, we would suggest you compare prices for the best deal. We tried Ferryonline who compare all ferries from Calais to Dover. Journey time is just 90 minutes and there are over 30 crossings each way daily.
Basic admission is £16.50 but there are discounts for kids or families, or you can even buy the whole Annual Membership from English Heritage and visit 400 castles, stately homes, ruins and more in England for just £47.
