
	Prehistoric
	Roman
	Saxon
	Norman
	Medieval
	Tudor & Stuart
	19th century
	20th century

The History of Dover

Because of its position, Dover controls the English Channel and is known as the 'Lock and Key of England'. Julius Caesar tried to land at Dover during the Roman Invasion of 55 BC and it was the prime objective of the invasion plans of William the Conqueror, Napoleon and Hitler.

As well as the massive castle, Dover's history as a military and garrison town can be seen in the extensive remains of its Roman forts, Napoleonic forts and defences from both the World Wars when Dover was Britain's Frontline Town.

Today, Dover still relies on the harbour for its prosperity. It is the busiest passenger ferry terminal in the world, the busiest cruise liner terminal in Britain and a major port for freight, particularly for fruit and other perishables imported via the massive reefer cargo ships.

This brief history of Dover has been divided into historical periods :

Dover in Prehistoric Times : Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age
Roman Dover : home of the Roman fleet, the Classis Britannica
Saxon Dover
Norman Invasion : conflict with the French king, 1066 and all that
Medieval Dover : growth of the castle; the Cinque Ports
Tudor and Stuart Dover : a favourite of royalty
19th Century Dover : development of the defences; Dover as a seaside resort
Dover this Century : Dover to the present day.

Conditions of use

The contents of this site, including all images and text, are for personal, educational, non-commercial use only. The contents of this site may not be reproduced in any form without the permission of Dover Museum.

Market Square, Dover, Kent, CT16 1PB Tel: 01304 201066 Fax: 01304 241186 E-mail: museumenquiries@dover.gov.uk