Get ready to unlock the secrets of your doorstep! Heritage Open Days, England’s largest festival of history and culture, returns from September 12th to 21st, 2025, with a fantastic array of FREE events right here in the Dover District. It’s your chance to explore incredible sites, from newly restored masterpieces to ancient wonders.
Uncover the Treasures of Dover
This year’s festival, themed around architecture, brings you an exclusive look at some of the area’s most treasured landmarks.
- Maison Dieu (Dover Town Hall): Step inside the newly restored Maison Dieu and travel back over 800 years! Explore the stunning architecture, discover its rich history, and even book a spot in a free embroidery workshop or an exterior building tour. Don’t miss the special tours of the Mayor’s Parlour, a masterpiece by Gothic Revival architect William Burges, in partnership with The Landmark Trust.
- Dover Museum & The Bronze Age Boat Gallery: Visit the new “Museum in Miniature” exhibition and then stand in awe of a true historical gem—the Dover Bronze Age Boat. This incredible vessel, the world’s oldest known seagoing boat, is a staggering 3,500 years old.
- Roman Painted House: For a limited time, you can explore the finest Roman house on show in Britain. See the unique painted walls (frescoes) and the elaborate under-floor heating system (hypocaust) of this remarkable site, built around AD 200.
So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars, plan your adventure, and prepare to be amazed by the history right on your doorstep. Find out more about Heritage Open Days at https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/ where you can search by town, area or venue. Or for more details on events in the district, please see the White Cliffs Country website at Heritage Open Days 2025 – White Cliffs Country