Dover Castle and the Secret Wartime Tunnels

This winter, enjoy a series of special new tours taking place at Dover Castle and gain a fascinating insight into unique and unusual areas of this extensive fortress. While the Keep is closed in preparation for an exciting new project opening in August 2009, continue to explore the many different layers of Dover Castle’s colourful and turbulent history, from its medieval defence systems right through to the myriad of hidden tunnels used as a strategic stronghold during WWII. Please see below for more information.

On a visit to the castle, why not re-live the turbulent war years, when the Dover Straits were packed with ships and the skies were filled with enemy planes! Make time to experience the complex defence systems employed during two World Wars at the fascinating Admiralty Lookout, which has recently re-opened following a £1,000,000 refurbishment. With exciting new interactive displays, try your hand at semaphore or Morse code, and learn about the techniques used to detect enemy ships.
 
Also discover the labyrinth of Secret Wartime Tunnels built deep within Dover’s famous White Cliffs. Sights, sounds and Pathe news clips bring the drama of its strategic role during WWII alive. Walk through the rooms where Sir Admiral Ramsay planned the “miracle of Dunkirk” and tour the underground hospital as you follow the story of a wounded wartime pilot.
 
Take time to explore the atmospheric Medieval Underground tunnels as you venture deeper beneath the castle. Above ground, imagine life as a medieval soldier under siege as you walk through our sound and light exhibition - the 1216 Siege Experience. Also see one of Europe’s best-preserved Roman lighthouses, walk the battlements and immerse yourself in Dover's rich and colourful history.
 
From November 2008 – August 2009, during the re-presentation of the Keep, enjoy one of our fascinating new ‘Hidden Dover’ tours. Discover the sites of vanished medieval towers, explore barbicans, bastions, batteries and World War II gun pits – even uncover the mystery that lies within Avranches Tower. With so much to see and do it's not surprising that Dover Castle is one of Kent’s most popular visitor attractions.
 
Please be aware that access to the Secret Wartime Tunnels is by guided tour only.  Tours are limited to 1000 people a day and are allocated to visitors when purchasing their admission tickets on a first come, first serve basis.  Please arrive early to avoid disappointment. 'Hidden Dover' tours are weather dependent and will vary on a daily basis. Tours last approximately 1 hour and groups are limited to a maximum of 20 people. The 1216 Siege Experience is currently open but for a limited time only and may close at short notice - please check the website or call the site on the day of your visit for more information.