Discover Dover
A few of the places you could visit near St James
Historic Dover Castle
Standing proudly above the White Cliffs, Dover Castle has guarded our shores for 20 centuries. Known as the 'Key to England', this mighty fortress has played a crucial role in the defence of the realm for over nine centuries.
Today, you can step inside the Great Tower and immerse yourself in a medieval palace, complete with vibrant recreations of royal life. Explore the underground hospital and the secret wartime tunnels that helped evacuate British troops from Dunkirk.
Dover Seafront
Dover's seafront offers a perfect blend of history and modern amenities. The beach promenade stretches along the famous pebble beach, offering stunning views of the harbor, the White Cliffs, and Dover Castle.
Enjoy traditional seaside activities, watch the busy ferry port in action, or take a stroll along the recently renovated pier. The seafront area also features cafes, restaurants, and the Dover Sea Sports Centre for those seeking adventure on the water.
White Cliffs of Dover
The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic British landmark, a symbol of hope and freedom for generations. These stunning natural cliffs rise up to 350 feet above the English Channel, offering breathtaking views across to France on clear days.
Walk along the cliff-top trails to experience the fresh sea air and spot local wildlife in their natural habitat. The cliffs are home to various seabirds and rare plants that thrive in this unique chalk grassland environment.
Dover Museum
Founded in 1836, Dover Museum is one of the oldest museums in Kent. The museum brings to life the rich history of Dover through fascinating exhibits spanning from prehistoric times to the modern day.
Explore three floors of exhibits showcasing Dover's history, including archaeological finds, historic photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of this historic port town.
Bronze Age Boat
Discovered in 1992, the Dover Bronze Age Boat is the world's oldest known seagoing vessel. This remarkable archaeological find dates back to 1550 BC and represents a crucial piece of maritime history.
The boat is housed in a specially designed gallery within Dover Museum, where you can learn about its discovery, conservation, and what it tells us about Bronze Age seafaring.
Maison Dieu
The Maison Dieu, or Dover Town Hall, was founded in 1203 as a medieval hospital and pilgrim hostel. This Grade I listed building has served many purposes throughout its history, from a naval victualling office to a courthouse.
Today, this historic building is undergoing an exciting restoration project to preserve its remarkable heritage and create a vibrant cultural venue for Dover's future.
Roman Painted House
Built around 200 AD, the Roman Painted House is the finest Roman House on show in Britain. The house was part of a large mansion or official hotel for travelers crossing the English Channel.
Over 400 square feet of painted plaster walls survive, the best preserved Roman frescoes north of the Alps. The walls are decorated with classical architectural scenes and the house features an elaborate under-floor heating system.
