The Best Hotels to Book Near the Port of Dover

Maison Dieu – the House of God – is indeed a heavenly place, with spectacular views over the imperious Dover Castle on top of the White Cliffs. Set in a centuries-old townhouse, the guestrooms combine modern comfort with traditional design, and a continental breakfast is provided to eat in the dining room or take away as a packed meal. Request Room 1 or 4 for castle views.

Named after the iconic Dover attraction, this lovely hotel sits in the clifftop village of St Margaret’s at Cliffe. Rooms have a cottage feel, with rugged wooden beams and beds; one has an oak four-poster and overlooks the village church. The communal lounge is an impossibly cosy spot, with a piano, stone floors and log fire – perfect for curling up with a book on a chilly winter’s evening.

Four-star comfort meets a family B&B atmosphere at this hotel in the Kent village of Eythorne, just a few miles inland from the Port of Dover. Rooms have a homely, farmhouse feel, while hearty cooked and continental breakfasts will set you up for a day exploring the gorgeous coastline of White Cliffs Country.

True to its name, this is a lodging fit for aristocracy. Its 10 luxurious rooms sit above a 200-year-old pub, each with their own design, but all featuring wood-panelled walls and huge freestanding copper bathtubs. The food is equally exquisite – highlights include the fresh crab salad and the black pudding scotch egg.

When it comes to a location for exploring Dover Harbour and the White Cliffs, this waterfront hotel can’t be beat. All rooms are cosy and comfortable, but book the deluxe sea-view rooms for coastal panoramas and an elegant, chandelier-lit design. If shoreline walks have got you in health-kick mode, there’s a well-equipped gym and sauna, while the Waterfront Spa – with a wide range of massage and wellness treatments – is perfect for winding down.

English wine has been in the ascendancy in recent years, and Terlingham Vineyard produces an award-winning list of white, rosé and sparkling varieties. Pass a delightful two hours tasting their offerings alongside a cheese board and some slices of cake, before retiring to your comfortable guest room, where a continental breakfast hamper is delivered to your door each morning. As if that wasn’t relaxing enough, mindfulness meditation classes are offered in the hotel grounds.

Originating as 18th-century flint cottages before becoming a pub in the 19th century, the Royal Oak is steeped in history. Its rooms have a classic design, with vintage wooden headboards, brass fittings and Victorian tiled bathrooms, but have been updated to modern levels of comfort, with luxuries including Nespresso machines. Downstairs, regular music and quiz nights keep you entertained, while drinks include a huge range of gins and real ales.

Ever fancied having the run of your own farm, home to inquisitive cows and criss-crossed with footpaths and cycleways? Chilton Farmyard offers just that, combined with plush farmhouse accommodation and hearty cooked breakfasts. Dover Castle, Camber Sands beach and the Port of Dover are all close by, as are the White Cliffs.