Western Heights, Dover
Panoramic view from Western Heights showing Dover town, the harbor, and Dover Castle. The scene includes a mix of urban buildings, coastal waters, and the historic castle perched prominently on a hill, all under a cloudy sky with patches of sunlight.

Reaching Greater Heights

Led by English Heritage with the support of local partners and communities, Reaching Greater Heights is a project that will restore 80 hectares of chalk grassland at Dover Castle and the Western Heights.
Along the way, it will uncover ancient earthworks, protect rare wildlife and create new opportunities for people to connect with nature and heritage.

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Thanks to National Lottery players

Close-up of the weathered wooden door of Drop Redoubt at Western Heights, studded with large round metal rivets. A rusty iron latch is partially open on the right side. Green grass and a stone wall are visible in the blurred background.

Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage.

Reaching Greater Heights is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to restore historic chalk grasslands at Dover Castle and Western Heights, protect rare wildlife and heritage, and empower local communities through volunteering, learning, and activities.

Our partners

Reaching Greater Heights is a collaborative effort powered by a passionate network of organisations working together to restore nature, protect heritage, and connect communities in Dover. Each partner brings unique expertise—from conservation to community organising. Explore the links below to learn more about the organisations helping to shape the future of Dover Castle and the Western Heights.

Restoring nature

White-faced woodland sheep grazing on a grassy hillside at Dover Castle, with a scenic view of the sea and harbor in the background. One sheep with curved horns stands in the foreground, looking toward the camera. The sky is partly cloudy, and cranes and industrial buildings are visible along the shoreline in the background.

By restoring 80 hectares of chalk grassland, we're reconnecting habitats and uncovering historic earthworks. Scrub clearance, conservation grazing, and the creation of new woodland rides and glades will support wildlife, such as bats, butterflies and choughs, while ecological surveys will track biodiversity gains. This joined-up approach protects both nature and heritage, restoring this vibrant historic landscape.

Improving access for all

A group of six people on a grassy field under a partly cloudy sky. Two children in wheelchairs are at the center, one holding a tablet. Four adults stand or crouch nearby, engaging with the children in an outdoor activity.

We’re working to make the Western Heights easier to access and enjoy. Through community consultation and access audits, the project is identifying barriers and delivering improvements like clearer access information, better paths, and downloadable maps. Co-created resources, including a youth-led Visual Journey video, will help everyone plan their visit with confidence.

Community matters

Two people sitting at a white table, engaged in a youth-led interview. A black microphone is placed between them, with one person smiling toward the camera and the other facing away. A laptop is open on the table, and a casual setting with a couch, pillows, and a potted plant is visible in the background. The scene reflects youth participation in heritage interpretation.

Reaching Greater Heights is working with local people of all ages to co-create activities that connect them with nature and heritage. From guided walks and creative workshops to youth-led filmmaking and urban exploration, the project offers hands-on opportunities to learn new skills, share stories, and shape how Dover’s chalk grasslands are understood and enjoyed.

Volunteering

A volunteer wearing a red English Heritage t-shirt and sunglasses sits at an outdoor table holding a large black chough puppet and giving a thumbs up. Another person stands nearby, working with blue plastic materials. The table is covered with craft supplies, with green plants and flowers in the background.

Volunteers are at the heart of Reaching Greater Heights. From landscape maintenance and monitoring to community engagement, there are opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to get involved.

Together, we’re building a stronger connection between people, nature, and heritage in Dover.

Find an opportunity