insideKENT Magazine Issue 101 - September 2020 | Page 14

KENTSTAYCATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
KENT’S CASTLES & GARDENS CONT.
DOVER CASTLE
Stood atop a hill, high above the tides that wash
impatiently on the shore below, is the impressive
sight of Dover Castle. With the modern town of
Dover just a little way down the hill, it is hard to
comprehend the extent of the history that surrounds
Dover Castle, and the port town itself. Though it
only takes stepping through the gates to truly transport
you back to a time of all-powerful kings and queens,
brave knights and festive jousting tournaments. It
truly is an awe inspiring feeling to contemplate the
weight of all that history surrounding you, and with
its roots dating back to the time of the Romans,
there is no shortage of mysteries to be unravelled in
these stone halls.
The castle, that is now a central draw of the Kent
tourism industry, was once an essential part of
defending England from invading forces, and played
a major role in battles from its conception; from
Medieval battles right up to and including both
World Wars, with it being a key part in the
Evacuation of Dunkirk. Imagine the clandestine
meetings and illicit affairs that took place within
these walls. Head inside the Great Tower and see
the opulent lives kings, queens, and courtiers that
once lived in this fortress led. Make your way up to
the battlements and let your mind run wild with the
battles that were once fought and won here, and
envision being in charge of the defences of this mighty
castle. Tentatively make your way down to the secret
castle tunnels, visit the underground hospital and
experience the reality of the conditions within. Walk
through the fantastically ghostly Medieval Tunnels,
and feel as though you are in a scene straight out of
Lord of The Rings. This day out is made for day
dreamers, history lovers and children whose
imaginations are bigger than themselves!
The gardens of the castle include lush trees, colourful
flowers, and sculpted bushes with footpaths peppered
amongst them that are perfect for a charming walk
amongst the mosaic of blooms, or a sword fight
between siblings as mum and dad watch on and
laugh while sitting in the sun.
While the gardens are open, unfortunately at the
time of writing this Dover Castle has shut most of
its food offerings, though tea, coffee, soft drinks, and
snacks are still available for take away at specific
locations around the castle. Though fear not for
those aching stomachs, as a unique perk of this
particular castle is its proximity to the seaside below.
With the beach only being a 20 minute walk from
the castle it is the perfect location to head into town
for a bite to eat after a satisfying day out.
In an effort to keep everyone as safe as possible in
this COVID-world, the castle has introduced limits
on its visitor numbers; a mandatory booking system
has been put in place alongside one way systems,
and socially distanced staff members are all in place
to make sure guests have a safe and happy trip.
© English Heritage
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