The Citadel Welcome Centre Cafe

Citadel Rd, Dover CT17 9DP, United Kingdom
+44 7928 413097
$$$ Cafe , Event venue
(47 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

Hidden away on the scenic Citadel Road in Dover, the Citadel Welcome Centre Cafe is more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a delightful culinary escape that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This charming cafe, crowned by a stunning view of the channel, invites you to indulge in a variety of delectable dishes while soaking up the vibrant essence of local hospitality.

As you step inside, you're greeted by the friendly smiles of the owners, who are passionate about providing an exceptional dining experience. The ambience strikes a perfect balance between cozy and spacious, featuring comfortable seating arrangements and tastefully decorated interiors. There's also a lovely outdoor area where you can enjoy your meal while basking in the sun and enjoying the pretty vista of the sea—a perfect backdrop to your lunch or afternoon tea.

The menu boasts a variety of options guaranteed to satisfy every palate. For lunch, you can't go wrong with their famous Jacket Potatoes, including classics like cheese and beans or the more indulgent prawn and Marie Rose sauce, all at unbeatable prices. Sandwich lovers will appreciate the selection, from simple cheese and ham to the more sumptuous tuna and mayo that leaves you wanting more. And if you’re in the mood for something toasted, try the delicious brie, bacon, and cranberry panini—each bite is a heavenly combination of flavors that are warm and comforting.

For the little ones, the Children’s Menu offers popular favorites like chicken nuggets with chips or the delightful cheese pizza, ensuring that even the fussiest eaters will find something they like. Plus, with prices starting at just £2.50 for hot dogs, you can treat your kids without breaking the bank!

Complement your meal with one of their sumptuous drinks. Whether you prefer a classic Americano or a rich Luxury Hot Chocolate—complete with cream and marshmallows—there’s something to quench everyone’s thirst. The cafe’s milkshakes, particularly the Biscoff option, have been praised for their creaminess and inventive flavor combinations, making them the perfect treat at the end of your meal.

Don’t just take our word for it! Customers rave about their experiences at the Citadel Welcome Centre Cafe. Gary Johnson describes it as a “great cafe run by really friendly welcoming people,” while Doug Maxwell was particularly impressed by the breakfast stacker, calling it “a culinary masterpiece.” The cafe’s reputation as a hidden gem is echoed by Rob, who notes the excellent food and lovely outdoor space where you can relax and enjoy a view of the moat.

In a world where chain cafes can often lack character, the Citadel Welcome Centre Cafe stands out as a testament to the charm and flavor of local hospitality. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, this cafe is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy quality food in a friendly setting. So gather your friends or family, make your way to Dover, and experience the delightful offerings of the Citadel Welcome Centre Cafe—you won't be disappointed!

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee
Free water refills
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Historic
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Pets
Dogs allowed
Dogs allowed inside
Dogs allowed outside
Openings Hours

Monday

09:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Tuesday

09:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Wednesday

09:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Thursday

09:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Friday

09:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Sunday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

47 Reviews
gary johnson

15 Sep 2025

Great cafe run by really friendly welcoming people, food is lovely and excellent coffee at great prices. Lovely location as well.

Doug Maxwell

25 Aug 2025

I recently had the pleasure of dining at The Citadel Welcome Centre Cafe in Dover and was absolutely blown away by their breakfast stacker. It was a culinary masterpiece that left me wanting more! The stacker was a towering delight, featuring a perfectly cooked egg, crispy bacon, juicy sausage, and a generous helping of hash browns. Every element was cooked to perfection, with the flavors complementing each other beautifully. The toast was buttery and warm, providing the perfect base for this delicious breakfast treat. The cafe itself was clean and inviting, with a friendly and attentive staff. The atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable, making it the ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast. If you're ever in Dover, I highly recommend visiting The Citadel Welcome Centre Cafe and trying their breakfast stacker. It's a must-try for any breakfast lover!

Rob

08 Aug 2025

Nice hidden gem up by the Citadel, it used to be the old visitors centre but don’t let that put you off, it’s been done out lovely for a cafe. It’s not overly pricey for the items in my opinion, and the food is fantastic. There is an option to sit outside which is nice in the warm weather and you get a good view of the channel as you look down the moat. Plenty of parking which is free and wheelchair accessible. Definitely worth a visit if you’re exploring the area.

Ann Wilson

05 Aug 2025

Lovely welcome from a lovely couple, we had delicious coffees, yummy bread pudding and nice scones. Enjoyed ourselves so much we stayed for lunch, scampi, ham and egg and chips, jacket potatoes and salad...all fautless in the most welcoming atmosphere. Nice solid comfortable chairs and tables. An outdoor eating area for warmer days and a very pretty view of the sea as you arrive. The cakes on the counter looked incredible...chocolate and biscoff clocked for another visit. Just brilliant. Thank you

Phillip West

14 Jul 2025

Lovely little cafe. Visited today with the wife and the pup for a coffee and a cake. Beautifully presented inside, with an outdoor seating area as well. Will definitely come back up for the Cream Tea next time.

Trisha Tutthill

16 Jun 2025

A stunning little gem, caters for all tastes and locally owned which we love supporting. Nothing is too much for the family. I was there for my 50th celebration and it was amazing. Their cakes esp brownies, candy floss machine and staying open for the function was amazing. Thank you Emma, Sue, Tina and Gavin.

Chas C

06 Jun 2025

Enjoyed an excellent, perfectly cooked breakfast in this clean and spacious café with its friendly and attentive staff. The ingredients were good quality and the sausages specifically, were exceptional and sourced from a local butcher by the owner. I am a coffee snob and very picky about what I drink. I found the coffee to be very good and will be happy to order it again. I can, without hesitation, recommend a visit to the Citadel Welcome Centre Café.

Join the The Citadel Welcome Centre Cafe Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.