Royal Oak Hotel Dover Beds photoRoyal Oak Hotel Dover Exterior photoRoyal Oak Hotel Dover Exterior photo
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From122US$ /night
Check-in
18May2026Select date
Check-out
19May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

36 Lower Road, Dover, United Kingdom, CT17 0QU
-
Near Russell Gardens
Great
8.2
8.9
/10
3.0
4.5
/5

Accommodation

The Royal Oak offers five recently renovated Bed & Breakfast rooms, each equipped with walk-in showers and Nespresso coffee machines. Guests can unwind on Egyptian cotton sheets, ensuring a comfortable night's stay. Complimentary breakfast is provided, enhancing the experience for all visitors.

Dining

The hotel serves an evening menu featuring English dishes, prepared by an on-site chef dedicated to high-quality local ingredients. All meat selections are sourced from Britain and Ireland, ensuring traceability and quality. Guests can also enjoy Solley's real dairy ice cream, delivered fresh daily throughout the summer.

Beverages

The Royal Oak boasts a wide selection of drinks, including three regular real ales and a monthly guest ale sourced from local breweries. Ciders on tap, alongside various gins and a full wine selection, cater to diverse tastes. This extensive beverage range is complemented by a cozy setting that invites patrons to relax.

Family and Pet Policies

The Royal Oak welcomes families and pets, providing dog treats upon request and a garden space for children to play. The family-friendly atmosphere encourages gatherings and socializing over refreshing drinks or meals. This inclusive policy ensures that every member of the family is catered for, making it an enjoyable outing.

Location and History

Set in the village of River near Dover, the hotel occupies a charming 19th-century building formed from 18th-century flint cottages. This historic property has served the local community for over 150 years. Its proximity to local attractions, including the majestic Dover Castle, makes it an appealing destination for visitors.

Highlights

Accommodation: Bed & Breakfast rooms

Dining: evening menu featuring English dishes

Beverages: three regular real ales

Family: family-friendly atmosphere

“In my opinion, this renovated 19th-century building distinguishes itself with a traditional pub atmosphere and a dedication to locally sourced breakfast fare. I think it's a particularly good choice for those looking for a family-operated establishment that welcomes pets and offers proximity to both the ferry and historical sites such as Dover Castle.”
Hotel logo
Olivia SmithEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
1 Double bed
Shower
Coffee machine

Room rates & availability calendar

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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
Facilities: Great
8.1/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Electric vehicle charging station

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Royal Oak Hotel Location

36 Lower Road, Dover, United Kingdom, CT17 0QU
Map view
36 Lower Road, Dover, United Kingdom, CT17 0QU
Nearby
Church
River Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul
2000 ft
Restaurants
Kearsney Abbey Tea Room
2500 ft
Alkham Road Kearsney
Explore Dover
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Dover Castle
Dover Castle
10-minute drive
Historic fortress with stunning views, museums, and guided tours. Highlights include the Great Tower and medieval architecture.
Crabble Corn Mill
Crabble Corn Mill
11 minutes' walk
A restored historic watermill offering guided tours. Unique exhibits on the milling process make it an educational stop.
Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens
Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens
15 minutes' walk
Beautiful gardens with scenic walking paths, a great picnic spot, and seasonal flower displays. Ideal for family outings.
Dover Transport Museum
Dover Transport Museum
6-minute drive
Museum showcasing the history of transport in the area. Unique vintage vehicles and interactive displays create an engaging experience.
Hiking at Samphire Hoe
10-minute drive
Scenic coastal hiking trails offering breathtaking views. Great for thrill-seekers looking to explore the natural beauty.
Relaxation at Kearsney Abbey Tea Room
10 minutes' walk
Enjoy tea and light meals in a serene garden setting. Ideal for those seeking relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
Waterfront Cycling
10-minute drive
Bike rental services available for riverside cycling. A perfect way for families to explore Dover's scenic waterfront.
Kearsney Abbey Tea Room
Kearsney Abbey Tea Room
10 minutes' walk
Charming café with homemade cakes and light fare. Relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families and afternoon tea lovers.
The White Horse
5-minute drive
Traditional pub serving local ales and hearty meals. Notable for its friendly vibe and outdoor seating in summer.
The Dover Fish Bar
6 minutes' drive
Popular spot for fresh fish and chips. Casual dining atmosphere makes it perfect for families looking for a classic takeaway.
Dover Town Hall
Dover Town Hall
10-minute drive
Historic venue hosting diverse events including concerts and markets. Family-friendly and vibrant atmosphere for all ages.
The Booking Hall
The Booking Hall
10-minute drive
Live music venue with a variety of acts. Energetic vibe, ideal for couples looking for a night out or solo travelers.
Getting around town
City Centre
Dover34 min  ·  1.7 mi
Airports
London City (LCY)177 min  ·  73.1 mi
London Southend (SEN)202 min  ·  83.6 mi
Train
Dover Priory Station34 min  ·  1.7 mi
Bus
Bus stop10 min  ·  4.1 mi
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Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Royal Oak serves a full breakfast for free. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Royal Oak provides a cozy and convenient stay, with many guests appreciating the clean, modern, and tastefully decorated rooms, some of which have been recently renovated and feature good bathroom amenities. The location is ideal for exploring nearby Kearsney Abbey and parks, and also offers convenient access to the ferry. Guests frequently mention the generous breakfast and enjoy the fun pub atmosphere with great food; however, some guests in room #1 have noted noise and vibrations, especially from the freezer. The availability of fans, along with coffee and tea facilities in the room, adds to the overall comfort.
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Review score
Based on 358 verified reviews
8.1/10
Great
84%
Recommend
Staff
9.2/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.6/10
Facilities
8.1/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Clean rooms
Good breakfast
Good location
Modern bathroom
Cons
Limited parking
Noisy guests
Low water pressure
Hard mattress
Guest reviews
based on 358 reviews
8.1/10
based on 694 reviews
8.2/10
ronnie from united kingdom
deluxe double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 02, 2026
9.0/10

cozy room and lively pub experience!

clean spacethoughtful designhelpful staff
I appreciated the very clean and thoughtfully designed spaces. i enjoyed walking around the nearby area. the pub provided great food and a fun atmosphere. I especially enjoyed participating in the easter trivia night. staff assisted with travel advice, and i found them very helpful.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel features a pub downstairs with a lively vibe. breakfast is generous with great food. Also staff are always available to assist with travel advice, providing valuable support for exploring the area. a definite plus!
Location
8/10
The hotel is located in a pretty area ideal for exploring. nearby kearsney gardens are great. Also there is a quick train to a larger area, and the hotel is conveniently positioned for both, though the parking was expensive.
Rooms
10/10
the beautiful double room is clean. the bathroom includes nice accommodations, the bed was comfortable for sleeping well. the rooms are on the second floor above the pub area, it should be considered!
0 Helpful
|
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alan from united kingdom
Couple
deluxe double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 05, 2026
8.7/10

charming and convenient stopover

helpful staffgenerous breakfastgreat foodconstant noise
I found the staff quite friendly and helpful . the breakfast was very generous. staff assisted us with some good travel advice. I really appreciated that. the pub had such a fun atmosphere and provided great food.
room #1 had a constant noise and vibrations from the freezer compressor. it was located above, and the fans noise were quite irritating.
Rooms
9/10
The room had all needed amenities and wanted facilities. i noticed the design was thoughtfully planned. the bathroom accommodation was very nice and clean. That gave me peace of mind.
Service
9/10
The staff really went out of their way to accommodate guests, i was charmed. the breakfast service was excellent and prompt. i did feel welcomed. The people there were friendly.
Location
8/10
The hotel is near some lovely places. kearsney gardens are easily accessible. it is also a quick train ride away from other areas. i enjoyed the area, it was very picturesque. I loved that!
0 Helpful
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Reese from United States
Couple
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 31, 2025
6/10

Adequate stay with some issues

steep stairsoutside noise
The stairs to the room were quite steep. The small size of the room was also noticeable. there was a distinct lack of soundproofing, I could hear noise from outside at ALL hours. I also requested a wake up call, I never received one.
0 Helpful
Lily from United Kingdom
Couple
deluxe double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:November 23, 2025
8.8/10

romantic getaway

friendly staffbuilding charmsatisfying breakfastlovely variety
i adored the friendly staff. their warmth. i also loved the building's charm. it felt authentic. the breakfast included was very satisfying , with a lovely variety of food.
the stairs to the room were a bit steep.
Service
9/10
the staff provided helpful assistance with directions and recommendations for nearby attractions , they were always available at the reception and offered a warm welcome. their attentiveness enhanced my experience.
Dining
8/10
breakfast offered a range of choices including pastries , cereals , and cooked items. dinner was available , with a menu that included options. i enjoyed a pizza with a variety of toppings.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel included free parking . there was a bar in the pub. the location was convenient for visiting local attractions. i appreciated the amenities provided.
Rooms
9/10
the room had tea and coffee making facilities. it also included soft towels. a hairdryer was provided in the room. the room was clean. i really appreciated these useful additions.
0 Helpful
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John from United Kingdom
Single
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:October 02, 2025
8/10

quaint and cozy stay

friendly staffgreat foodhigh standardhelpful staff
the pub felt cute, and the ladies were super helpful. the food exceeded my expectations. my room was decorated to a high standard. it was very clean. i found the staff kind and helpful, especially in the evening.
the stairs to the room were steep (something to consider with luggage).
Location
9/10
the hotel is positioned well for trips connecting to france. it is located in a villagey-feel area. i also found it a convenient short drive from the boat, made my travel easier.
0 Helpful
|
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FAQs
About Royal Oak
What is the check-in and check-out time at Royal Oak?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
Is there parking available at Royal Oak?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What are the nearby attractions to Royal Oak?
Nearby attractions include Dover Castle (3 km), White Cliffs of Dover (12 km), and Folkestone Harbour (14 km).
What room amenities are available at Royal Oak?
Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, coffee machine, wardrobe, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
Is dining available on-site at Royal Oak?
The hotel features a restaurant serving high-quality English dishes.
Which airport is closest to Royal Oak?
London Southend Airport is the nearest airport, located 100 km away.
What languages are spoken by staff at Royal Oak?
The staff speaks English.

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Check-in
18May2026Select date
Check-out
19May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room