Dover Castle’s chilling past lures visitors to Kent to explore the haunted medieval fortress. We take a look at the Key to England’s many ghosts!
Dover Castle is an iconic medieval castle in Kent, famous for its key defensive position as the “Key to England”.
Built as we know it today in the 1180s by King Henry II, the castle’s history can be traced back even further, with records showing that it has been a fortified site since Saxon times.
The castle boasts a Roman lighthouse that still stands within its walls, serving as a testament to its long and storied history.
The castle’s strategic location made it a crucial defensive point for England’s southeastern coast, protecting the country from marauding pirates and later from Napoleon’s army.
During World War II, the castle played a pivotal role in the protective of the country, serving as a command centre for British forces.
Winston Churchill, the then-Prime Minister, frequented the castle’s secret underground tunnels to plan the evacuation of the British Army from Dunkirk in 1940.
Now in the care of English Heritage, Dover Castle is open to visitors all year round to discover its history and its hauntings!
Haunted History of Dover Castle
Dover Castle is renowned for both its rich history and its reputation for being a haunted location. The castle has been cited as one of the most haunted spots in the UK.
One of the apparitions that has been seen numerous times throughout the castle’s grounds is the ghost of a headless drummer boy. According to legend, the young boy was carrying a large sum of money when he was attacked and decapitated by his assailants.
The sounds of his drumming are often heard on the battlements.
The old keep is another location within the castle where ghost sightings have been reported. Visitors have reported seeing a ghostly woman in red, as well as a cavalier.
Additionally, the ghosts of World War II soldiers have been observed carrying out their daily duties within the castle’s secret underground tunnels.
Several eerie incidents have also been reported, including disembodied voices and doors opening and closing on their own.
Many visitors have also reported sudden drops in temperature without explanation.
One incident involved an American couple who heard violent screams and cries for help, which they initially thought were part of a re-enactment. However, they were surprised to learn that no such events were scheduled that day.
The castle’s battlements are also believed to be haunted.
One such incident involved a camera crew who heard a scream coming from the battlements above, as if someone had jumped to their death.
The crew took cover, fearing that someone might fall on them. However, after the scream stopped, no one was found lying on the ground.
Dover Castle Today
Dover Castle remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kent.
Visitors can explore the castle’s rich history, including its secret underground tunnels and learn about the castle’s role in protecting England’s shores.
The castle’s staff is knowledgeable and eager to share the castle’s history and ghost stories with visitors.
When they run, the castle’s ghost tours are particularly popular, offering visitors a chance to experience the paranormal activity themselves.
Dover Castle is a remarkable historical site with a chilling past that is sure to fascinate and intrigue anyone who visits.
Where to find Dover Castle
Dover Castle rises high above the White Cliffs of Dover. You can find the entrance at Castle Hill Road, Dover CT16 1HU.
Have you seen a ghost at Dover Castle? Tell us about it in the comment section below!
I have not seen a ghost here, but heard them! Years ago i was in the medieval tunnels, I was on my own, and i distinctively heard footsteps behind me, following me. Also when I was doing a re-enactment show, (ww2) we was camped out by the main gatehouse to the tower and I woke up at night to something or persons walking around my tent at night. I did look outside but did not see anythink. Strange I said to myself, but did fill uneasy knowing there was something their, but I know I was not alone.