Cinque Ports Conference at the Maison Dieu
The historic Maison Dieu, Dover, will host an academic conference exploring the history of the Cinque Ports and maritime Kent on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 June 2026.
Whether you’re a historian, academic, archaeologist or simply have a love of coastal history – there will be plenty to absorb over two days of illustrated talks, tours and stories.
Jointly organised by the Kent Archaeological Society Maritime Kent Group, the Confederation of Cinque Ports, the Maison Dieu, Dover District Council, Dover Town Council and Dover Museum, the conference will bring together leading academics and specialists to share new research and insights into this unique aspect of England’s heritage.
Open to anyone with an interest, the two-day event will feature an impressive programme of short, illustrated talks covering subjects from medieval governance and record keeping to Dover Harbour and Victorian shipwrecks. Speakers include experts from the University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University, University College London and the University of Southampton.
Delegates will also be able to enjoy guided tours of the Maison Dieu and nearby historic sites, alongside a display of Cinque Ports memorabilia from the Dover Museum collection.
A highlight of the programme will be the Cinque Ports Conference Reception on the evening of Friday 26 June, featuring a ceremonial gathering of the Mayors of the Cinque Ports, ‘Antient Towns’ and Limbs. The procession will be welcomed by the Mayor of Dover, Councillor Bekah Dawes, and David Page, Speaker of the Cinque Ports and Mayor of Winchelsea, accompanied by the Admiralty Sergeant bearing the Cinque Ports silver oar.
The Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, Sir George Zambellas, will attend on Saturday 27 June and close the conference.
Martin Crowther, Maison Dieu Engagement Officer, said: “The Maison Dieu is delighted to host this important academic conference in a building so closely connected with the history of the Cinque Ports, providing a fitting backdrop to its colourful stories. The short, illustrated talks by historians and archaeologists will appeal to a wide audience, from academics to armchair history enthusiasts.”
Tickets cost £50 for both days or £30 per day, including refreshments and a buffet lunch. Tickets for the evening reception are £15. For more information and to book, visit: www.maisondieudover.org.uk
Notes to Editors
About the conference
- The conference explores the history of the Cinque Ports and maritime Kent from medieval times to the present day.
- Featured talks include:
- David Carpenter on Hubert de Burgh, founder of the Maison Dieu
- Sheila Sweetinburgh on authority and institutions in the Cinque Ports
- Andy Plumbly on the Naval Brewhouse at Dover
- Claire Bartram and James Lloyd on aspects of Dover’s social and heraldic history
About the Cinque Ports
- The Cinque Ports were originally five ports — Dover, Sandwich, Hythe, New Romney and Hastings — tasked with providing ships and men for national defence in the days before the Royal Navy existed.
- In return, they received special privileges from the Crown, including tax exemptions.
- They were later joined by the Antient Towns of Winchelsea and Rye, and several additional members called ‘Limbs’.
- Today, the Confederation of the Cinque Ports plays a largely ceremonial but important role in promoting heritage, education, tourism and environmental stewardship.
About the Maison Dieu
- The Maison Dieu has a long-standing association with the Cinque Ports.
- Founded by Hubert de Burgh, Keeper of the Coast (1215–1220), it is linked to the early office of Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports.
- The building has served as a medieval pilgrim hospital, a Royal Navy victualling yard and later Dover Town Hall.
- Reimagined by Victorian architects Ambrose Poynter and William Burges, it has hosted numerous historic Cinque Ports events.
- The building features stained glass, paintings and heraldic displays commemorating notable Lord Wardens, including Sir Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.
Partners and funding
- Organised by: Kent Archaeological Society Maritime Kent Group, Confederation of Cinque Ports, Maison Dieu, Dover District Council, Dover Town Council and Dover Museum.
- Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of the Reawakening the Maison Dieu project.
- Images below: Hubert de Burgh and medieval ship.
Posted on 15 June 2026