Dover Castle, Rochester and The White Cliffs
Explore the town made famous by Charles Dickens and see one of England’s most impressive surviving medieval castle buildings: Rochester Castle. Discover Dover Castle - an icon of England, built soon after 1066, and the centre of the effort to evacuate the Allied troops from Dunkirk during WW2. Visit Capel Le Ferne, situated on the White Cliffs of Dover and home to The Battle of Britain Memorial.
Highlights
- Discover Rochester, the beloved town of Charles Dickens
- Option to uncover the rich history of Rochester Castle
- Visit The Battle of Britain Memorial and catch a glimpse of the magnificent White Cliffs
- Explore the secret wartime tunnels at Dover Castle, the site pivotal to the evacuation of Allied troops from Dunkirk
What's included
- Expert Guide
- Superior Coach with free Wi-Fi & USB charging on-board
- Personal Audio Headset for the live commentary
- Walking tour of Rochester
- Visit to the Battle of Britain Memorial and Visitor Centre
- Entry to Dover Castle
- Entry to Rochester Castle (only if option chosen)
- Hotel pick-up/drop-off
- Lunch
Overview
ROCHESTER
Step into the pages of Dickens' tales in Historic Rochester, a cherished town that inspired his literary masterpieces. Chose to visit Rochester Castle, boasting breathtaking views from its towering keep.
Discover the influence of Dickens as you stroll past buildings immortalised in works like "Great Expectations" and "The Mystery of Edwin Drood." Marvel at Satis House and Restoration House, echoes of Miss Havisham's abode.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history as you traverse the cobbled streets and ancient town walls, dating back to Roman times. Feel the echoes of the past in every corner, from the grandeur of the cathedral to the imposing presence of the castle.
Enjoy some free with either a visit to Rochester Cathedral, a majestic symbol of history and architectural brilliance, or alternatively, wander through the town to discover the charming cafes and shops.
CAPEL-LE-FERNE
Capel-le-Ferne proudly hosts the Battle of Britain Memorial, honouring the valiant heroes who secured victory from July 10 to October 31. Initiated by the Battle of Britain Memorial Trust and opened by the Queen Mother in 1993, it features a poignant propeller-shaped base with a carved pilot figure by Harry Gray at its heart.
Replicas of a Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire stand as tributes alongside the Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall, bearing the names of nearly 3,000 fighter aircrew.
The site's centrepiece, 'The Wing,' boasts a striking Spitfire wing-shaped visitor centre. Ascend to the first floor 'cockpit' area for panoramic views across the Channel to France, offering insight into the historic battleground.
DOVER CASTLE
Perched atop the White Cliffs, Dover Castle stands as a sentinel over the English Channel, boasting a storied past spanning over nine centuries. Revered as the 'key to England,' its strategic significance has shaped the nation's history.
From its inception after 1066, Dover Castle witnessed royal intrigue and endured epic sieges, embodying the resilience of the realm. During World War II, it once again became a bastion of defence, serving as a vital command centre for naval operations. The tunnels beneath the castle cliffs became the nerve centre for orchestrating the miraculous Dunkirk evacuation in 1940.
Today, visitors can explore the castle's imposing ramparts, delve into its labyrinthine tunnels, and immerse themselves in its rich history through interactive exhibits. Dover Castle stands as a testament to England's indomitable spirit and its enduring legacy as a guardian of the realm.
NEW EXHIBITION: Dover Castle Under Siege (Opens 22nd July 2024)
A major new attraction, Dover Castle Under Siege, will tell the story of the castle’s most challenging times through immersive interactive displays and reopened medieval tunnels.
In 1216, rebel barons offered the English throne to Prince Louis of France in a bid to overthrow King John. In May, Louis and his army swept through southern England. But Dover Castle refused to surrender. Over the next year, it withstood two epic sieges, and became a thorn in Louis’s side as his invasion faltered.
Operates
April - October:
Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday
Know before you go
Victoria Coach Station: Is a 10-15 minute walk from Victoria Train Station. Boarding: Commences 30 minutes prior to departure and the gates close 2 minutes in advance of departure. On Board Our Coaches: There are no toilets and no hot drinks or hot food are allowed.
Privacy Policy: Please visit www.evanevanstours.com/privacy-policy
Cancellation policy
Cancellations and amendments can be made up to 24 hours prior to departure.
