Description
The Western Heights as a whole form the largest Napoleonic fortress in Britain and was an essential base for the British Army throughout the 19th Century that is considered a hidden treasure that has been closed to the public for over 40 years.
The Drop Redoubt is one of the two forts on the Western Heights, the other being the Citadel, and linked by a series of dry moats. Visitors to the North Entrance will be able to see the old gun room, water tanks, and guard room as part of tours run by the Western Heights Preservation Society, via their website link. Other parts of the site are the Grand Shaft and Drop Redoubt.
Price
Exterior viewing: Free
Tours of the Drop Redoubt are free - donation welcome.
Opening Hours
The exterior and the surrounding ditches can be viewed daily during any reasonable daylight hours
The Western Heights Preservation Society run tours of the The Drop Redoubt on selected dates at 11am and 2pm on the third Sunday of the month from April to September
Grand Shaft is open on selected open days - check the Society's website for more details.
Accessibility
The Drop Redoubt fort is in a steep, cliff-side location and is surrounded by an uneven grass surface. Due to access difficulties, the fort is not suitable for wheelchair access or visitors with limited mobility. There are steps into the fort and steps throughout it.
Train
Dover Priory - 3/4 mile
Parking
There is free council-operated parking next to several entrances to the site. There is limited parking on Drop Redoubt Road next to the entrance to the Drop Redoubt, a car park on on North Military Road next to the Detached Bastion, and a car park on South Military Road, next to St Martin's Battery- pay and display may apply for all. Disabled parking not allocated.
Dogs
On lead - but be aware the paths around the site take you through land grazed by cattle.
Additional Notes
Visitors to the North Entrance will be able to see the old gun room, water tanks, and guard room as part of tours run by the Western Heights Preservation Society.
Picture Credit: © English Heritage.
