Pupils are being invited to explore Dover Castle Under Siege, which tells the story of the most testing times in its long history.
Opening up Dover Castle’s northern defences, including the Spur tunnels and casemates, Dover Castle Under Siege revolves around the castle’s position as the ‘key to England’ in the face of determined sieges during the 13th-century.
It also examines the lives of garrison soldiers in the castle at a time of an impending Napoleonic invasion in the early 19th century. At both of these crucial times, Dover Castle’s strength and position proved vital to the defence of England.
A new Teachers’ Kit, including activities that specifically relate to a siege, and an Attack and Defence handling collection are available for schools and education groups to use free of charge.
Whether visiting as part of a free, self-led visit, or as part of an expert-led Discovery Visit workshop, pupils will also be able to take advantage of a new education room when they visit, too. There are history curriculum links for Key Stage 1-5.
The new experience will also enable children to explore the network of underground tunnels. The tunnels served the defensive barbican, later renamed the Spur, rebuilt in the aftermath of the sieges.
The tunnels were expanded during the Georgian era, making them fit for ‘modern’ warfare, and the new interpretation peels back the historical layers – revealing the medieval stone masonry contrasting with the neat 18th and 19th century brickwork.
Paul Pattison, senior historian at English Heritage, said: “Our new experience gives visitors to Dover Castle a fresh perspective on the fortress’s long history of defending England’s coast and reveals the story behind a forgotten civil war in England.
“Against the historical background of the Magna Carta and the English baronial rebellion, Dover Castle Under Siege tells the story of Prince Louis of France’s invasion and subsequent proclamation as King of England, as well as the vital role Dover Castle played in repelling him.”
What else is new?
Day to day life in the castle during both periods of history is shown in a new exhibition, from the ordeal of living through extended sieges and waiting for invasion, to the physical hardships of crowded conditions and rationed food.
The exhibition contains immersive film, light and soundscape to position students within the fighting, while hands-on elements will include laser activated cross-bow shooting. Pupils will also be able to walk in a Georgian barrack room, see furniture, beds, cooking facilities, uniform and equipment and will be able to dress up.
Outside, a new play area will continue the experience, with siege games, catapults and siege engines, and physical play that captures the strategy of siege warfare, from climbing walls through to mining tunnels.
Schools can choose from expert-led visits and a range of workshops, or self-led visits. For more information click here.
