Heritage Open Days - Wanstone Rediscovered 2026
Take a guided tour of the recently-uncovered remains of one of the largest guns installed on the British mainland and the D2 heavy anti-aircraft battery.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
In July 2022, the remains of one of the Second World War cross-channel guns, nicknamed 'Jane', were uncovered at Wanstone, near Dover, Kent. Part of the largest gun battery ever built in Britain, Jane could fire a 1980 lb/900 kg shell 26 miles/41 km.
Meet some of the dedicated team of volunteers who uncovered these remains and now maintain them, and take a tour of the enormous gun site, magazine, crew shelter, artefact store and the D2 Battle of Britain 3.7-inch heavy anti-aircraft battery, which have been hidden since the 1950s.
You'll also see an exhibition of wartime plans and a video presentation of photographs of the guns under construction and in action.
Guided tours are available on demand, subject to guide availability, and no booking is required.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
Supervised children are welcome.
- Meeting point
We'll be opening our additional car park at Wanstone, approximately 300 metres from the gun sites. Entrance from Upper Road postcode CT15 6HY - What3words location ///fidelity.book.approve
- What to bring and wear
The site is uneven so please wear stout footwear - we recommend closed-toed shoes. The location is exposed so please dress appropriately.
- Accessibility
The site has relatively gentle slopes. The car park and the path from the car park to the site are on an all-weather surface. Once on site, the tour takes place over mostly wartime concrete roads. Most of the site should be suitable for wheelchair or mobility scooter users. A few of the buildings may not be accessible due to steep steps and narrow entrances typical of these structures.
- Other
The additional car park is approximately 2 km northeast of the main White Cliffs car park. The car park and access routes to the site will be clearly advertised on the open days. Admission and tours are free of charge; normal parking charges apply. National Trust members, motorcycles and blue badge holders can park for free. Our car park gates are locked promptly at 7 pm. A release fee applies after this time. The event is dog-friendly and drinking bowls will be provided. The nearest facilities are at South Foreland Lighthouse, approximately 1 km walk from the site.
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Guided walks to South Foreland Lighthouse 2026
Enjoy a free leisurely guided walk along the cliffs to South Foreland Lighthouse with one of our experienced volunteers. Take in the spectacular views while hearing about the flora, fauna and the history of this iconic place.
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