Hotels in Dover

Still wondering what to do in Dover? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Dover and book your hotel today!

Dover is a town of powerful history, instantly recognisable by its famous, majestic White Cliffs, which stand sentinel over the English Channel. It’s a place where 2,000 years of history meet the sea, creating a deeply memorable destination. The crown jewel of the town is undoubtedly Dover Castle, perched high on a hill overlooking the port. This immense medieval fortress houses the Great Tower and the chilling Secret Wartime Tunnels, telling the story of Britain's defence from the Roman era right through to World War II.

Beyond the fortress, you can walk the dramatic cliffs to the South Foreland Lighthouse, or explore the coast at places like Samphire Hoe, a thriving nature reserve created from the spoil of the Channel Tunnel. With the fascinating Dover Museum housing the Bronze Age Boat, the town offers a rich blend of iconic natural beauty and historical immersion. Secure your hotel to begin your exploration of this historic port.

Choosing your hotel location in Dover is key to balancing access to the town's history with the convenience of transport. Dover's main attractions are concentrated between the town centre, the port, and the hills above.

The most convenient area is the Dover Town Centre and the Waterfront precinct. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance of the train station, the Dover Museum and the beautiful Maison Dieu (Town Hall). This area is excellent for those who rely on walking or public transport, offering many local restaurants and pubs, including historic spots like The White Horse.

For unparalleled views and quicker access to the major historical site, consider accommodation in the higher areas closer to Dover Castle or Western Heights Fortress. While these spots may involve a slightly steeper walk to get into the main town, the stunning vistas over the English Channel and the proximity to the White Cliffs are a major draw.

Dover is served by Dover Priory railway station, which offers high-speed train services to London St Pancras. The station is centrally located and easily accessible from hotels in the main town. The town is also a major international ferry port, so for those travelling from continental Europe, the central area provides a smooth connection. Local bus services are available for reaching the out-of-town attractions like the Battle of Britain Memorial or the start of the cliff walks, so positioning your hotel near a major bus route is useful.

The best time to secure hotel deals in Dover is during the low season, from November to March, when tourist traffic, particularly the flow of summer tourists and international travellers, significantly decreases. Conversely, the peak summer months of July and August see the highest prices due to the excellent weather and the large number of people taking coastal holidays.

A unique detail for Dover is its position as a major transport hub. Hotel demand can sometimes spike unexpectedly due to ferry travel and major cross-Channel events, so it is advisable to book in advance. For the absolute best value, avoid the weekends and look for mid-week stays. Booking a hotel that is slightly outside the direct vicinity of the busy ferry terminal and the immediate castle area can also provide better rates while still keeping you well-connected to the town.