The Ghosts of Dover Castle, Kent

Dover Castle, Kent

Brief History

Dover Castle in Kent is a Medieval castle built by Henry II in the 1180s. However, records show there has been a fortified site here going even further back since the Saxon times, and a Roman lighthouse still stands within its walls.

Its key defensive position and the fact it is the shortest sea crossing between England and France, it’s often referred to as the “Key to England”.

Built to protect England’s shores from marauding pirates and later, Napoleon’s army, it’s now best known for its role in WWII and its secret underground command centre, often frequented by Winston Churchill when he was Prime Minister.

During the Second World War, it was on the front line, defending the country from attack by both air and sea. It was here where plans where emergency plans were devised to bring the British Army back from Dunkirk in May and June 1940.

Dover Castle Ghosts

The battlements are haunted by the headless ghost of a drummer boy who was murdered during an errand involving a large sum of money. It is believed the boy was decapitated by his assailants, who took the money that he was carrying.

His decapitated spirit has been seen numerous times across the castle grounds, often heard banging his drum.

Within the stone walls of the old keep, the apparition of a woman in a red dress has been seen, as well as a cavalier. In the ‘secret’ underground tunnels, the ghosts of World War II soldiers have been seen and felt, going about their daily duties. It was here that an American couple heard violent screams and cries for help. Believing the sounds were part of a re-enactment, they were startled when they were told no events were happening that day.

Disembodied voices have been heard during the night, and doors have often been witnessed opening and closing of their own accord. Sudden unexplained drops in temperature have also been reported.

On one occasion, a camera crew walking past the castle keep heard a scream coming from the battlements above as if someone had flung themselves over the edge to their death. Convinced someone was falling towards them, and they jumped for cover. Moments later, the scream ceased, but nobody hit the floor.