Dover Western Heights

The Western Heights stand above Dover, a long line of 18th- and 19th-century forts and ditches built to guard the port from land and sea. Lieutenant-Colonel William Twiss reorganised the site in 1804 as part of the nation’s response to Napoleon’s threatened invasion, adding the Citadel and Drop Redoubt. By the early 20th century the works were called the strongest and most elaborate fortifications in Britain. The Citadel formed the main defensive point, rebuilt between 1804 and 1860 with barracks, a parade ground and bomb-proof quarters for 500 men. A deep ditch, drawbridge and tunnel gave access, while Major William Jervois designed the Officers’ Quarters to act as a defensible keep. After 1890 the Citadel became a barracks and later housed up to 900 soldiers during the First World War. The Drop Redoubt, linked by dry moats, was built in two phases and strengthened after the 1859 Royal Commission. Its five casemates, caponiers and enlarged magazine show how the fort was adapted for mortar fire and commando raids in the Second World War. Earthworks called the North Lines, South Lines and North-East Line stretch across the ridge, with bastions that allowed flanking fire along the entire position.