White Horse, Dover

Dovers oldest pub, dating from 1365.

29th March 2024: The White Horse has reopened under new management, so the information in this WhatPub entry may be out-of-date.

Sitting in the shadow of Dover Castle and beside the ruins of a Norman Church, you will find the historic White Horse Inn. This Grade 2 listed building dates back to 1365 and was originally the home to the Verger to St James Church. In 1574, it is said to have taken its first recorded steps as an "Ale tasting house" before being known as "The White Horse Inn" from 1818.

Historic records show that the cellar was used as a morgue and inquests on bodies recovered from the sea are said to have been heard here in the rear dining rooms.

The Horse - as it is known locally - went on to survive both wars unscathed whilst its neighbour, St James Church, was struck during both.

Inside, the rambling interior features a bar and three rooms, spread over two floors. The mix of simple but comfortable furniture, walls adorned with cross-channel swimmers’ signatures and eclectic décor make for an interesting pub to drink and eat in.

The pub is a hive of activity, with a mix of tourists & locals alike enjoying traditional, home cooked food and sampling premium drinks in cosy, traditional surroundings.

Up to three real ales are served from local and national breweries. There's also a real cider from Duddas Tun.

On Wednesday evening, the pub does not serve food. Instead it runs a "Free Food Event" where customers can bring along their own food/take-away and the pub will provide crockery & cutlery.

During the year the pub holds a number of fund-raising events for local charities.

The hidden terrace garden at the rear is a real treat during the summer months.

There's plenty of on street and pay and display parking nearby.

Winter Pub of the Season 2021/2022Historic England Entry: 1299029
Kent’s Public House Archive: White Horse, Dover