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Dover, the famed port of the United Kingdom, serves as the gateway to Europe or England, depending on your travel direction. With a rich maritime history and famous white cliffs, Dover offers a warm welcome to those journeying across the channel.
Dover's history dates back to Roman times, with its most famous landmark, Dover Castle, constructed by the Normans. The castle remains in excellent condition, having stood as the town's defender for over 800 years. During the Second World War, Dover Castle served as the planning base for the evacuation of British troops from Dunkirk. The castle's network of tunnels now houses a museum filled with exhibits from the wartime era.
Apart from its historical significance, Dover houses beautiful beaches such as the natural, undeveloped shingle beach at Kingsdown. The village centre boasts a variety of shops and cafes for visitors to explore.
Dover also serves as the port for car ferries operating towards Calais and Dunkirk in France, with over fifty sailings per day.
The world-famous white cliffs of Dover stretch for ten miles on either side of the town, offering spectacular views, particularly from the cross-channel ferries. The cliffs also provide excellent walking trails for those keen on experiencing the beauty up close.
Deal is a bustling seaside town rich in history. Famous for its fishing and smuggling past, Deal offers a plethora of attractions for visitors. The town's pier extends 1/4 mile into the sea, offering stunning views of the Deal seafront. The long shingle beach provides ample space for relaxation, and there are good parking facilities and other amenities nearby.
Deal Castle, built during the reign of Henry VIII, is shaped like a Tudor rose. Constructed from Kentish ragstone, the castle features six semicircular bastions equipped with heavy guns, making it a formidable defence structure. It is presently owned by English Heritage and is open to the public for most of the year.