Car Hire Dover

Dover Mini Guide

Is There More to Dover Than the White Cliffs?
Yes, although the cliffs, immortalised by Vera Lynn are the main attraction. The town is a major ferry port to France and its quick and cheap to travel across the channel for some shopping at the Cite d’Europe. The East Sussex and Kent coastline is also very attractive. Within the small town itself, several reminders of its Roman days are evident including a house still standing after 2,000 years. From the tunnels in the under cliff, one of the greatest rescue operations ever carried out was planned in the evacuation from Dunkirk. Back to the white cliffs, they're a great starting point just outside the town for walks and cycle rides over miles of marked trails making your stay in the town one you can use getting fit.

What Should be on my ‘Must-see List?’
Dover Castle makes for a fantastic day out for all the family. It’s been called ‘the key to England’ as invaders have had to overcome it before conquering the country. Two millennia of history are illustrated through the building itself which has a Roman lighthouse, a Saxon church and a keep from the time of the Norman invasion. The castle museum sets this all in context in the imaginative and informative displays and exhibits.

You should also take time to visit the Battle of Britain memorial which is dedicated to those that lost their lives in 1940, protecting the country. Outside the town you have the beginning of the North Downs Way, a long distance footpath that eventually ends near the Thames Valley.

Where’s a Good Place to Meet Friends?
The Cricketers Pub has been a meeting place for the townsfolk for over a century and as well as being known by all locals. In addition they serve great meals and a range of south coast ales. Alternatively, try the New Inn for excellent food in a traditional and friendly setting.

If you are arriving into the UK via Dover and hiring a car for the first time, we recommend familiarising yourself with driving in the UK and our guide to hiring a car for the first time, more info here.

Dover is often simply driven through on the way to the ferry but if you have the chance to spend a day or two there on the way to your destination it will reward you with quiet, quaint streets and a wealth of history linked around the invasions of Britain.

Some of the sights are quite unusual including the Grand Shaft, a set of staircases constructed in the early 19th century to enable soldiers to reach the castle quickly from the town. The castle is fascinating too as it includes a Roman lighthouse amongst its 2,000 year old remains.