Fort Burgoyne and Coombe Hole
Fort Burgoyne is a military fort dating back to the 1860s on the eastern side of Dover. Originally called ‘Castle Hill Fort’, it was one of a series of Palmerston Forts built along the coast of Britain to defend against invasion. In addition to the historical buildings, a diverse range of wildlife can be found on site, including lizards and slow worms, and is a site of high importance for several bat species. The fort is only open for organised visits and events.
Coombe Hole is managed alongside Fort Burgoyne. A mosaic of chalk downland, scrub and woodland with a network of paths weaving through it, Coombe Hole is designated a Local Wildlife Site and is open to the public year-round. We manage Fort Burgoyne, Coombe Hole and Burgoyne Heights Recreation Ground on behalf of The Land Trust.
Things to look out for
Pyramidal orchids, autumn lady’s-tresses, slow worm, lizard, buzzard, marbled white, Adonis blue and chalkhill blue.
Visitor Information
Fort Burgoyne
Open: Only open for events and tours
Parking: Parking available on site.
Accessibility: Steps, slopes and uneven surfaces across the site.
Facilities: Toilets available on site.
Dogs: dogs welcome on leads
Nearest bus stop: Dover Castle (Route 93)
Coombe Hole
Open: 24 hours.
Parking: No on-site parking. On street parking available nearby.
Accessibility: Uneven surfaces and steep slopes. Kissing gates on the perimeter fence.
Facilities: No on-site facilities.
Dogs: Welcome, but please use leads when livestock are on site
Nearest bus stop: Dover Castle (Route 93)
Other information: Please be aware of grazing animals.
