Roman archaeology / DOVER

Roman Painted House

Look closely at surviving painted walls and the heating system of a Roman building beneath modern Dover. The small site rewards a slower look at how the rooms worked rather than a long tour. It pairs naturally with the boat gallery for visitors interested in the layers of the town below today’s streets.

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Entrance to Dover’s Roman Painted House with its name above the doors — Photo: Stephen McKay

Before you go

Check the date before walking over: the main season has limited opening days and extra dates are listed separately.

The practical details

Where to find it: New Street, Dover CT17 9AJ
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: Free admission on scheduled opening days. The 2026 season ends on 31 October; term-time opening is normally Saturday, with listed holiday and additional dates. Check the detailed monthly calendar rather than assuming daily access.
Access and getting around: The lower monument is reached by stairs. A ground-level viewing platform and printed interpretation are available for visitors unable to descend; this is not equivalent access to every part of the site.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: A short stop suits children curious about Roman rooms and underfloor heating. Adults must accompany under-16s. Leave food and drink outside and check whether the staircase suits your group.

Practical information checked 15 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 30–45 minutes for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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