Discover highlights of a day trip to Dover from Canterbury, England. Plan a Dover day trip and learn about the WWII history of this region of the UK.
Dover, at the southern tip of England in Kent is easily accessible on a weekend with a home base in Canterbury.
A quick, 30 minute train ride will whisk you to the coast. Given the rich history in Dover from Medieval times to World War II, we couldn't resist including Dover in our Canterbury weekend itinerary.
Here are nine ideas of things to do on a short trip to the area.
1. Trek to Dover Castle
The train pulls into the station right in the center of town. We could see Dover Castle in the distance up the hill. Get a bit of exercise hiking up the hill to the castle and enjoy sweeping views along the way.
2. See France in the Distance
Dover is the closest point in the UK to France. It's possible to look out across the English Channel and see France in the distance on a clear day.
3. Relive the tension of WWII
Given Dover's position at the narrowest point in the English Channel, we could only imagine the tension here during World War II as troops readied to deploy for occupied France.
Imposing guns still stand overlooking the channel and seem to be frozen in time while trained on an enemy that fortunately no longer exists.
SIDEWALK SAFARI SPOTLIGHT: Looking for other historical points of interest in Europe, especially related to World War I and World War II? Why not visit:
|
4. The Norman Castle
We walked into the shadow of an impressive Norman castle. Even back in 1066, rumor had it that Dover Castle was an impenetrable fortress.
At the time, William the Conquerer found that reality did not quite live up to the legend and the occupants surrendered unconditionally. It was only 200 years later in the 13th century that the castle took on its current imposing dimensions.
SIDEWALK SAFARI SPOTLIGHT: Looking for other historic places to visit in England? I recommend:
|
5. Imagining Life in the Medieval Castle
Dover Castle was decorated inside and out to reflect what the inhabitants may have experienced during Medieval times. We were even able to take a seat on the throne in the center of the castle. Actors in period costume were found teaching kids how to operate a small catapult.
6. Drink in the Sweeping Views
We climbed to the top of the fortifications and enjoyed sweeping views of the grounds, the English Channel and France beyond.
7. Sit on Comfy Embroidered Cushions in the Chapel
We popped into a chapel on the grounds of Dover Castle. The interior was modest but what impressed me the most was the exquisite embroidered cushions put in place to make the services here just a bit more bearable.
8. Taking the Road Less Traveled
After completing our tour of Dover Castle, we began our descent down the hill into town. About two thirds of the way down, we saw a sign for Hubert Passage. I'm always a fan of taking the road less traveled so we took a detour down a lovely quiet path.
9. Sup a Pint of Real English Ale at the White Horse
We were rewarded for taking the detour when we stumbled upon the White Horse, a traditional English pub. The sun was shining so we sat on the swing in the back garden for a while supping on a pint of real English Ale.
When we started to fear sunburn, we made our way inside for a quick game of Connect 4 (there were a variety of board games available) before making our way to the train station for our return trip to Canterbury.
Dover is certainly an iconic destination. Are there other day trips from Canterbury that you might consider? Mamma Prada has some great suggestions for traveling in Kent that you could try, particularly if you're bringing your family along.
SIDEWALK SAFARI SPOTLIGHT: Looking for more ideas for a day out around London? why not:
|
Did you enjoy this post on things to do in Dover on a day trip from Canterbury? Sharing is caring...
.jpg)
