Fort Burgoyne
Fort Burgoyne
Located beside Dover Castle and the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, Fort Burgoyne is a scheduled ancient monument dating back to the 1860s. Originally known as "Castle Hill Fort," it was built to defend Dover Castle. In addition to the historical buildings, a diverse range of wildlife can be found on site, including Common lizards and Slow worms, and is a site of high importance for several bat species. Currently, the main Fort Burgoyne building is closed to the public, except during events. WCCP manage Fort Burgoyne, including The West Wing, Coombe Hole and Burgoyne Heights Recreation Ground on behalf of The Land Trust.
The what3words location of the entrance to Fort Burgoyne is - ///topped.hunter.push
The West Wing
In 2023, the West Wing Battery of Fort Burgoyne was opened to the public following significant investment in the conservation of its structures and improvements to accessibility. With restricted opening times, the West Wing Battery welcomes visitors from 10 am to 4 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. This area features historical elements such as the gatehouse, gun shed, tool shed, and gun platform, all dating back to the construction of Fort Burgoyne.
From the gun platform, visitors can enjoy views of Dover Town, Dover Castle, and Britain’s busiest ferry port. Adding to the experience is the immersive sound installation “I Would Rather Walk With You” by Emily Peasgood. Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council as part of the Pioneering Places East Kent project, this installation combines archival audio of soldiers, bespoke choral recordings, and community-produced material. It takes visitors on a journey, honouring the site’s military history while celebrating its evolution into a community space.
The what3words location of the entrance to The West Wing is - ///spices.super.noted
Recreation Ground
Spanning 7 hectares, the recreation ground and woodland surrounding the northern and eastern areas of the Fort offer glimpses into its ditch, as well as breath taking views of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the English Channel.
Things to look out for
Pyramidal orchids, Slow worm, Common lizard, Common buzzard, Marbled white, Meadow brown and Speckled wood.
Visitor Information
Fort Burgoyne
Opening Hours: Only open for events and tours
Parking: Parking available on site.
Accessibility: Steps, slopes and uneven surfaces across the site.
Facilities: Toilets available on site.
Dogs: Dogs welcome on leads
Nearest bus stop: Dover Castle (Route 93)
The West Wing
Opening Hours:
- 1st April to 31st October: 10 AM - 4 PM, Wednesday to Sunday.
- 1st November to 31st March: 10 AM - 4 PM, Wednesday to Friday.
Parking: No on-site parking.
Accessibility: Steps, slopes and uneven surfaces across the site.
Facilities: No on-site facilities.
Dogs: Dogs welcome on leads
Nearest bus stop: Dover Castle (Route 93)
