Scheduled MonumentsEnglandDover Castle

Dover Castle

England
List entry 1019075
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Historic England (NHLE)

Overview

History & significance

Dover Castle is a medieval fortress occupying a commanding position on the white cliffs overlooking the English Channel in Kent. The site has been fortified since the Iron Age, with significant Roman remains including a lighthouse, but the castle was substantially developed from the 11th century onwards, beginning with the construction of the keep by Henry II in the 1180s. The concentric defensive walls and numerous towers were added progressively throughout the medieval period, making Dover one of the most powerfully fortified castles in England. The castle served crucial defensive and administrative functions across centuries, particularly as a royal stronghold and key coastal defence against invasion, and retains extensive medieval masonry including its prominent square keep and extensive underground works.

Dover Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1019075. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Dover Castle?

Dover Castle is a medieval fortress occupying a commanding position on the white cliffs overlooking the English Channel in Kent. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1019075.

Who is responsible for protecting Dover Castle?

Dover Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic England (NHLE) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in England. The official designation reference is 1019075.

What other scheduled monuments are near Dover Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including St James' Church (0.4 km), St Martin's Church (0.8 km), Saxon shore fort bastion, Queen Street (0.8 km).

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