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Who are the Friends of Dover Castle?

Established in 1986, the Friends of Dover Castle is a registered charity dedicated to fostering a strong connection between Dover Castle and the local community.

Our mission is to support and promote the castle through strategic fundraising initiatives, enhancement projects, and community-focused events.

Dover Castle Keep 2024

Become a Member

Becoming a member is a straightforward process, offering exceptional value. Please visit our membership page to submit an online application or download the membership form and return it to us. Every membership contributes to our community and charity goals, while providing exclusive access to the UK’s largest castle – a truly unique benefit.

Some of our Membership Benefits…

Year Round Entry 2024

Year-round entry to Dover Castle for you and your family

Exclusive access tours 2024

Exclusive Access Tours to areas English Heritage cannot take you

Historical Artefact Viewings exclusively for Members 2024

Historical Artefact Viewings exclusively for Members

When do we meet?

The Friends of Dover Castle committee, meet on a regular basis at the Dover Castle Keep Office – normally on the first Tuesday of every month, changes to this will appear below.

Each month will often have a theme and all members are welcome to attend, all we ask is you let us know in advance, as we are limited to how many we can accommodate.

You must have your attendance confirmed before attending. Email your attendance request to: chairman@dover-castle-friends.org

There is normally a short agenda to discuss urgent matters, followed by discussions regarding events, tours, projects and fundraising ideas – of which we are always open to your suggestions!

Meeting Dates for the remaining part of 2026

Tuesday 4th August
Tuesday 1st  September
Tuesday 6th October
Tuesday 3rd November
Tuesday 1st December

Through the Ages

Through the Ages

Introducing the 'Through the Ages' Project Get ready to unlock the secrets of the past! We're thrilled to launch the 'Through the Ages' Project, a bold initiative that brings our Castle's rich history to life. From the Roman era to the present day, this ambitious...

Defibrillator Project

Defibrillator Project

There are over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests each year in the UK, but less than one in ten people survive. Every minute without CPR and defibrillation after a cardiac arrest can reduce the chance of survival by up to 10 per cent. Quick CPR and defibrillation...

Plans Chest maps project

Plans Chest maps project

This Friends project has come about as a result of our Honorary Vice President Mrs Wendi Atherton's' kind offer to loan us, on a permanent basis, a number of historical maps and plans of Dover Castle.  An allocation of funds was agreed by the committee so that we...

WHAT OUR VISITORS SAY…

"My wife and and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit to your castle and the British Army Home Guard exhibits were the highlight of our day "

Bud Anderson, Alabama USA

"Lovely afternoon visiting the Kitchen Garden, the Friends have done a wonderful job restoring it, loved the WLA outfits very fetching !

Iris Partridge, Briddlington

"Beautiful garden so English and thank you to the lovely gentleman in uniform who explained the various army items on show, our grandson was amazed, keep up the good work"

Lillian Westwood, New Hampshire US

"First time visiting this year and the garden already looks beautiful and really excited to see how it blooms throughout the year. The team were so friendly and passionate about this beautiful part of the castle....wonderful to see"

Natasha, Dover

"Beautiful gardens so wonderful to see, wonderful and knowledgeable staff"

Courtney, Folkestone

"First time visiting Dover and this garden was so beautiful"

Ansley & Phillip, Atlanta, GA, USA

"Amazing everything, thanks"

Kate, Nadia, Mar, Khrysd, Ukraine

"Love this ! "

Emilia, Slovakia

The latest from our blog

Our charity is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history of Dover Castle, one of England’s most iconic landmarks.

Here, you’ll and updates on our projects, events, and ways to get involved in supporting the largest castle in Great Britain for future generations.

Graham and Mark

Our Sponsors & Local Partnerships