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About the Museum

dover-museumDover Museum is one of the oldest museums in Kent. It was originally founded in 1836 and is now one of the county's premier tourist attractions.

In 1991 the museum was rehoused in a brand new three-storey building, situated behind its original Victorian facade. The history galleries tell the fascinating story of the development of the town and its famed port, using original objects, graphics and models.

A recent addition to the museum has been the Dover Bronze Age Boat gallery. This major archaeology gallery tells the story of the excavation and preservation of the Dover Boat. The gallery also explores major themes of the Bronze Age, using artefacts, replicas, models, video, computer interactives, hands-on exhibits and illustrated panels. See The Museum Collection.

Much of the information is presented in a range of languages - English, French, German, Spanish or Dutch.

The Galleries

The ground floor exhibition traces Dover's history from the Stone Age to the Saxons. The exhibition includes information regarding the building of Dover's Roman forts, as well as gorgeous Saxon jewellery from the collections of the British Museum.

The first floor is devoted to a special exhibition which changes annually. Details of the current exhibition 

The top floor gallery is the largest. Six scale models clearly show the growing town and port of Dover since medieval times, surrounded by cases of the best of the museum's collections. A central information desk gives guidance and information to visitors who wish to know more of Dover's past.

The top floor also houses the acclaimed Dover Bronze Age Boat Gallery. The Bronze Age Boat was discovered here in Dover and is of an international significance; it is the world's oldest known seagoing boat.

Visitor Enquiries

Dover Museum is happy to answer enquiries from the public. Any enquiries on all aspects of Dover's history should be sent to Dover Museum at the address above or e-mailed to museumenquiries@dover.gov.uk. Enquiries usually take up to 3 weeks to answer.

Museum Shop

The museum shop sells a large range of gifts and souvenirs, including local history books and DVDs, maps, cards, jewellery, homeware and toys. 

Visitor Information Centre

Dover Museum also houses the award-winning White Cliffs Country Visitor Information Centre, whose expert team offer a range of services including:

  • Providing maps, visitor guides and leaflets
  • Local accommodation information and bookings
  • Tickets for local events, including the annual Dover Film Festival
  • Ticket sales for National Express coaches and P&O and DFDS Ferries

 

 

 

Contact Us

Dover Museum
Market Square
Dover
Kent CT16 1PH

Tel: 01304 201066

Enquiries: museumenquiries@dover.gov.uk

Opening Hours

April - September: 9.30-5.00 Monday to Saturday,
10.00 - 3.00 Sunday 
October - March: Monday -Saturday 9.30 - 17.00
Closed Sunday.
Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Free Admission