Join us for an exciting programme of activities inspired by Dover’s
historic Maison Dieu.
What is the Maison Dieu?
The Maison Dieu has been at the heart of community life in Dover
for over 800 years. It began as a medieval hospital, providing
accommodation for poor pilgrims on their way to the shrine of St
Thomas Becket at Canterbury. It later became a victualling yard,
supplying ship’s biscuit and beer to the Royal Navy, before
becoming Dover’s Town Hall in the 1830s.
In Victorian times, the
building was extended to include a courtroom, prison cells,
council chamber, Mayor’s Parlour and the impressive Connaught
Hall.
Today, it’s a favourite building of many local people,
who’ve attended an impressive range of functions within its walls
- from dinner dances, music gigs and Christmas pantomimes to beer
festivals and wrestling!
The Re-awakening
The £9.1m reawakening of this Grade 1 Listed building will see the restoration of internationally significant decorative schemes by renowned Victorian architect William Burges, a new visitor entrance and improved access. In 2024 the Maison Dieu will permanently open to the public, contributing to an exciting new heritage quarter in Dover town centre.
Coming Soon!
An ambitious programme of activities, inspired by the building and its collections, is being developed in partnership with local community groups. Read on to find out more!