Citadel Sessions: History talk with Paul Pattison

Join us at The Citadel Café on Tuesday 4 November 2025 at 6pm for the conclusion of the Citadel Sessions. In this relaxed evening event, historian Paul Pattison will guide us through the fascinating historical context of the Western Heights.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, this is a chance to discover more about the place you call home, connect with your neighbours, and enjoy a welcoming evening in a unique setting.

About the event:

Western Heights in its wider context

This talk offers an accessible introduction to the history and national strategic importance of the Western Heights fortifications in Dover.

We’ll examine how these fortifications reflect the evolving science of military engineering, and how they were shaped by wider political, technological, and social developments. By comparing Western Heights to other monuments across the country, the talk will reveal how national defence strategies were implemented locally, and how these efforts left a lasting imprint on the landscape.

Designed for a general audience, this session will offer fresh insights into the role of Western Heights within Britain’s larger military history, highlighting its connections to national policy, innovation, and the changing nature of warfare.

About the facilitator:

Paul Pattison is a historian specialising in warfare, military history, soldiers, fortifications, and weapons, with a focus on the period from 1500 to 1945 in Britain and continental Europe. The history and archaeology of Roman Britain is another of his key interests. Paul is also an experienced landscape archaeologist with an in-depth knowledge of field monuments from all eras, particularly historic parks, gardens, and designed landscapes from the Middle Ages to the present day.

About Citadel Sessions:

Citadel Sessions is a series of free monthly events in which you can explore the Western Heights through history, art, creative writing, and more. Spaces are limited to 30, so please book in advance to reserve your spot. We’d love to see you there!

Citadel Sessions is a collaboration between English Heritage, Dover District Council, and The Citadel Welcome Centre Café, made possible with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players, and Historic England.