The White Cliffs of Dover England

Dover, south east coast of England
October 2013

 

Dover is a popular ferry port and ferries from Dover to Calais travel all day at a very reasonable price.

The ferry ride takes about one and a half hours and is most enjoyable. More on French Calais later, but now let’s talk about Dover.

 White Cliffs of Dover

 

 

The cliffs themselves are truly spectacular. We hiked along the top of the cliffs for over four miles and the scenery was spectacular.

The waterfront promenade is a lovely walk and during our stay,  the temperature was in the low 20’s C in October. The sun was shining brightly and the entire experience was truly wonderful.

 

Of course, no visit to Dover is complete without a visit to Dover Castle. We climbed the hill from the shore to the castle, but those less ambitious can drive up to the car park at the top.

 

Spectacularly situated above the White Cliffs of Dover, this magnificent castle has guarded British shores from invasion for  more than 20 centuries. There is an admission fee, but it is definitely worth the visit.

The Great Tower and the castle itself will impress, even  those with little love of history, as you  immerse yourself in the royal court of King Henry II. Experience the vibrant colour and opulence of the rooms in one of medieval England's most important castles.

A visit to the tunnels is a must and for over 200 years the tunnels have provided shelter, safety and secrecy to those defending the shores.  You will find yourself immersed in the drama of the Dunkirk evacuation in the very tunnels where the desperate rescue operation was masterminded. State-of-the-art effects and real film footage combine to bring those dramatic events of May 1940 to life in this fascinating experience. Be sure to explore the atmospheric Underground Hospital.  Converted into a hospital for injured troops in 1941, visitors today can experience the sounds, smells and atmosphere of the World War II hospital with its operating theatre.

 

After leaving the castle, with much to discuss, we stopped in the White Horse Pub for a cool pint of ale.

A truly informative and fascinating day in Dover.

 

The next morning we caught the early ferry and headed for Calais.