Dover is right on the edge of the UK, almost overlooking France on a clear day — it's only 33kms from Cap Gris Nez in France. Dover is known for many things: its surprising, and dramatic, white chalk cliffs, its castle with its warren of tunnels underneath, its key role in Operation Dynamo, the troop evacuations at Dunkirk and its 1st century Roman lighthouse, which may well be the oldest building in Britain. Whatever draws you here, the best places to stay in Dover will allow you to experience all these highlights and more. Our pick of properties is a stunning old pub with rooms just outside town.

Dover’s cliffs are a picturesque spot for a stroll, whether you’re just meandering along until you get to the next pub, or attempting some of the North Downs Way. This area has surprising biodiversity, which includes rare orchids and hundreds of different bird species. The town's high-speed rail link with London makes the best places to stay in Dover easy to reach options for a walking weekend along the magical cliffs tops.

This stretch of British coastline is dotted with fortifications and lighthouses, a legacy of the town's role as one of the Cinque Ports of the Napoleonic wars. The forts were expanded upon come WWII, which is also when the final expansion of Dover Castle’s underground tunnels was undertaken. There are hundreds of dramatic stories of espionage and intrigue to uncover. Dover also has several impressive churches, and some very good museums. And of course the marina, harbour and beaches!

Don't forget that this is a busy port year round, but especially during the peak summer months. If you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Dover during July or August, you'll need to get organised and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Dover

Best Pubs-with-Rooms

• The Marquis of Granby is a 200 year old village pub, with a lively restaurant and ten freshly decorated rooms. Expect new wood panels, in muted greys and greens, a lively range of fabrics, and great art, antiques and collectables. The smartest rooms have roll-top copper baths, and all of the rooms have a private outdoor deck or balcony. The restaurant serves classic British pub food, and has a very practical kids’ menu, so bring your kids and dogs too.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Gatwick Airport is Dover’s closest by road — at about an hour and a half. London City Airport is a bit further away, but the driving time is similar, and it’s only two hours by train. If you’re coming via London on the train, the Dover train leaves from St Pancras and can take as little as an hour and ten minutes. Alternatively there are regular ferries from Calais and Dunkirk.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Spring and summer are the most popular seasons for visits to Dover. Coastal destinations are always more popular in the warmer months, especially during the school holidays, and Dover is no different. If you’re exploring the hills and dales around town we recommend May, June and September, because in July and August you may even find it too hot. Dover’s winters are a bit wetter than the summers, but the sea keeps this region from ever being very cold.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include our Gurus’ recommendations for all of the best places to stay in Kent
• Refine your search by the type of accommodation you’re looking for: the best pubs-with-rooms in Kent or Kent’s most romantic hotels
• Consider some of Dover’s neighbours, Deal or Folkestone
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.