Have you ever wondered how people have crossed the Channel over the years? How did they go from swimming to sailing to flying over the water? And who were the brave souls who dared to take on this challenge?
If you’re curious about these questions, then you’ll love the new exhibition at Dover Museum that opens on Saturday, 29 July 2023. It’s called Channel crossings 2, and it’s a journey through time and space that explores the history of cross-Channel travel from Dover.
You’ll get to see and learn about the amazing inventions and innovations that made crossing the Channel possible, such as the roll-on/roll-off ferry and the hovercraft.
You’ll also discover the stories of some of the most famous and inspiring Channel crossers, such as Captain Matthew Webb, the first person to swim the Channel in 1875, and Mercedes Gleitze, the first British woman to do so in 1927.
The exhibition is a collaboration with visual artist and long-distance swimmer Vanessa Dawes, who is working on a project called Swimming a Long Way Together. She will share her insights and artworks inspired by Mercedes Gleitze and other Channel swimmers.
Cllr Charlotte Zosseder, Dover District Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for museums and tourism, said: “Dover is a town with a rich and proud history of cross-Channel connections. The Channel has shaped our culture, our economy and our identity. This exhibition is a wonderful way to celebrate our heritage and our spirit of adventure.”
The best part is that admission to Dover Museum and the exhibition is free!
You can visit any day of the week throughout the summer (9.30am-5.00pm Monday to Saturday, 10.00am-3.00pm on Sunday). Don’t miss this opportunity to dive into the history of Channel crossings!