We investigated the Secret Wartime Tunnels. Within Dover’s white cliffs lies a network of tunnels that have been in use since the Napoleonic Wars. It was from here that the near-miraculous evacuation of British and French troops from Dunkirk was directed in May 1940.

The tunnels served as a command centre and hospital for the rest of the Second World War. The tour is great — lots of bloody bandages, authentic smells and stirring tales of bravery and sacrifice.

We also explored the Saxon church, the Roman lighthouse and the excellent regimental museum, and Holly and Rory had plenty of time for climbing on cannons, rolling down hills and looking for the headless drummer boy, their favourite ghost. Because we were staying on site we didn’t have to try to cram it all in and never suffered from heritage fatigue.

The castle came to feel like ours and the only annoyance was those pesky day-trippers. Next time we’re taking the boiling oil.

How to book and more Top Turrets to rent

Need to know

The Sergeant Major’s House at Dover Castle sleeps six plus a baby and costs £755 for a week in May.

MORE TOP TURRETS TO RENT

English Heritage also has the following four properties for hire and 11 more are expected to be open by the end of the year at sites including Battle Abbey, Carisbrooke Castle and Walmer Castle. Prices are for a week in May. Short breaks are also available.

Osborne House, Isle of Wight: The old cricket pavilion, built in the early 1900s, has been turned into a cottage sleeping four. Its long, south-facing veranda would be the ideal place to relax on a summer evening. £635.

St Mawes Castle, Cornwall: Fort House, sleeping four plus a baby, stands in a lane just above the castle, the best preserved of Henry VIII’s coastal fortresses. £635.

Pendennis Castle, Cornwall: The Custodian’s House sleeps two plus baby and is within the rampart walls of the castle. £535.

Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire: Abbey Cottage, sleeping four plus baby, is close to one of the most atmospheric ruined abbeys of the North. £635.

Reservations: 0870 3331187, www.english-heritage.org.uk/holiday cottages.

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