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.