Dover Castle, the largest castle in England, features a 12th-century castle, Roman lighthouse ruins, secret tunnels, and a Great Tower with re-enactments of King Henry II’s court. The castle was built in 1180 and has undergone renovations over the centuries. The underground tunnels were used for military and government purposes, including bomb shelters and a hospital during WWII. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and accessibility for those with impairments.
Dover Castle is a tourist attraction in the county of Kent, England, featuring a 12th-century castle and the ruins of a Roman lighthouse. This castle is said to be the largest castle in England. The castle gardens include so-called secret tunnels with historical significance, as well as a Great Tower where visitors can experience dramatic re-enactments of court life during the time of King Henry II. This castle, considered a British Historic Site, has been used in the creation of several feature films such as 1912’s ‘Hamlet’ and 1990’s ‘Johnny English’.
King Henry II founded Dover Castle in 1180 by rebuilding and expanding the fortifications which had previously been established by Anglo-Saxon use. The castle was built concentrically with several layers of defense radiating outwards and is believed to have been the first castle in this part of Europe to follow such a design. Dover Castle and its grounds have undergone several renovation efforts over the centuries, up until the 1870s.
A unique feature of the Dover Castle grounds is a series of underground tunnels, used for a variety of military and government uses from the early 17th century. The tunnels were initially used as temporary military barracks and depots; it was said to have been the quarters of 17 soldiers during the Napoleonic wars. Later, the secret tunnels were used by government officials in an effort to prevent smuggling, before being abandoned for several decades.
During the Second World War, the underground tunnels of Dover Castle made a comeback when they were used as bomb shelters. Subsequently, the tunnels were used as a secret hospital facility, a command center for military operations, and a telephone exchange for military communications with coastal vessels. In 1940, a number of British and French soldiers were evacuated into tunnels from Dunkirk. Currently, visitors to Dover Castle can enjoy a guided tour of the underground tunnels.
Inside the Great Tower, tourists can take part in re-enactments which dramatize events at King Henry’s court. Every detail, from the furnishings to the food offered at a feast, is said to authentically represent the experiences of those who lived in the castle during Henry’s reign. The costumed actors illustrate the historic story of this king’s troubled relationships with his two sons, known as Prince John and Richard the Lionheart.
Both audio guides and guided tours can be requested at Dover Castle. Parking is available adjacent to the castle park. Restaurants and picnic facilities offer a choice of refreshments. The grounds of Dover Castle offer accessibility for visitors with mobility, hearing or vision impairments.
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