Dover Castle (June 24th)

A visit to Dover Castle takes up the better part of a day. This British Heritage property is recognized as one of the finest castles in all of England.

 

 

 

Walking can be a challenge for handicapped visitors. This little shuttle makes stops at several important points.

 

Why Are You Taking Our Picture?

 

.....just checking out my flower setting.

 

Streetside driveway entrance to the tower (Yes, the "White Cliffs of Dover" do extend down the coast to Folkestone.)

 

The area is marked off to allow these researchers to do their work.

 

They advised me that they were just looking for some local Roman ruins. What was so special about that? (Well, for one thing, we don't have Roman ruins in America!)This was taking place across the road from the Martello Tower.

Views from the Martello Tower

On a clear day, one can see a large passenger ship at the Dover Docks in the top photo. The other photos show another nearby Martello Tower. There were 3 towers within sight of each other. The Folkestone Harbor is also visible in the 3rd photo.

 

 

 

 

Martello Tower, Roof Level

The roof level contains a private bedroom with bathroom, and sitting area to enjoy one of the best views of Folkestone. The stairs you see provide interior tower access. It looks quite different from the original plan!

 

 

 

 

Martello Tower, First Floor

The entrance to the tower takes you to the first floor (in England and Europe, which corresponds to the second floor in the United States). This circular floor contains the living room area, dining room, entryway, and full kitchen. The tower is very well furnished and includes everything a family needs for a holiday. (You can access the original Martello Tower first floor plan here.)

 

 

 

 

Martello Tower, Lower Level

The lower level of the tower has been converted to two bedrooms (one twin and one double) with one complete bath to share. This is how the lower level looks today. To see the original plan of the lower level, you can access that at this site.

 

 

 

Martello Tower #2, Folkestone (Outside) June 22-25, 2010

The Martello Towers played an important part in the defence of England. To learn more about the original use of these towers, you can access the information at The South Coast Martello Towers site. We had the opportunity to stay at Martello Tower #2 in Folkestone. This tower was converted to living accommodations a number of years ago, was used as a private home for several years, and is now available to rent for holidays. (For more information on renting this Martello Tower)