South East

Visit - South East

From the most famous date in English history at Battle Abbey to Dover Castle's darkly atmospheric secret wartime tunnels, English Heritage in the South East offers so many great places to visit.

Dover Castle

The Key to England

1066 Battle Abbey

A date to remember

Osborne

Queen Victoria's family home

Upcoming Events

Days Out On The Coast In The South East

Portchester Castle

Climb the lofty medieval keep of Portchester Castle for breathtaking views across the Solent and into Portsmouth. The castle has a storied history — having been a Roman fortress, a Norman stronghold and a prioner of war camp during the Napoleonic wars. 

Visit Portchester Castle

Dover Castle

Standing tall atop those iconic white cliffs, Dover Castle looks out over the English Channel. On a clear day, you can see all the way to France. Back on dry land, be sure to head underground into the secret wartime tunnels.

Visit Dover Castle

Deal Castle

Deal has everything you could want from a British seaside town. Kitsch arcades, fish & chips, and a Tudor fort at its heart. Head into the battlements at Deal Castle to learn how Henry VIII's turbulent reign shaped Britain's coast.

Visit Deal Castle

Osborne

Only one beach in Britain can claim to be Queen Victoria's private beach. Head to Osborne, to swim in the same place the legendary Victorian ruler went for dips — and see the special bathing machine she used when going for a swim.

Visit Osborne

More to explore

  • Extraordinary Summer Days Out

    Delve into action-packed events, get away on an escape into history and find inspiration for a historical summer the whole family will love.

  • Isle of Wight Travel Guide

    Discover everything the Isle of Wight has to offer with our handy travel guide.

  • Legendary Summer 2023

    Experience legendary drama at one of our blockbuster historical events taking place across the country this summer.

The Battle of Hastings

The one and only Battle of Hastings re-enactment is back, taking place on the very spot where King Harold and Duke William fought in 1066. Don’t miss our biggest event of the year, as 500 reenactors recreate the drama and intensity of the legendary conflict that decided England's future. 

Learn more and Book

South East England Travel

  • A Weekend in Kent

    Home to some of the most impressive historic sites in the country, the 'Garden of England' offers award-winning beaches, seaside towns, ancient marshes and the famous white chalk cliffs. Perfect to explore on a short break.

  • Walking Guide: Dover to Deal via Walmer

    This 10 mile walk offers panoramic views of the English Channel. Three mighty coastal forts stand on the route, from the medieval "Key to England" at Dover to Henry VIII's defences of Walmer and Deal.

  • Spotlight On Osborne

    Open the doors to the once private world of Queen Victoria and her family at Osborne. Victoria’s holiday home remains largely untouched, providing intimate details of royal life during the 19th century.

Become a member

The South East boasts a huge variety of English Heritage sites from behemoth castles to unique Roman sites and picturesque castles. Make the most of what this region and the rest of the country has to offer with an English Heritage Membership. Enjoy unlimited access to hundreds of historic places plus free and discounted entry to our fantastic events.

Join today
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