Dover Castle
No fortress in England boasts a longer history than Dover Castle ♥.
Commanding the shortest sea crossing between England and the continent, the site has served as a vital strategic centre since the Iron Age. The major castle’s structures were built in 12th century, and it was an important coastal residence of the kings for several centuries. The main castle keep, which is the most impressive structure, reconstructs Henry VIII’s visit in 1539 with an interesting exhibition. There is a Royal Regiment Museum, medieval tunnels, Roman lighthouse and Saxon church. Castle walls and yards are interesting to simply walk about, with several impressive vista points.
Tours of the Secret Wartime Tunnels is another supposed highlight of the site, but although not requiring extra fee, they need to be booked in advance as space is limited (hourly tours of groups of 30 is all there is).
Places to Eat
Duke of York restaurant ♥ is located at the intersection of A2 and A258 about 3 miles from Dover town center and the castle.
It has the feeling of a chain, but plays as a pub – you have to order your food at the counter, and it then gets delivered to your numbered table. The menu includes traditional British fare, but also dishes such as Beef Stroganoff and Chicken Tikka Masala. Chocolate fondue is reputably unbelievable. Our damage: £55 for a meal for four. Last visit: Fall 2006.