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Overview
Property details
The Mayor's Parlour inside Dover's ancient Town Hall, the Maison Dieu, was conceived by architect and designer William Burges, arch-proponent of the High Victorian Dream at its most dazzling. The Mayor’s Parlour offers up to six people the unique chance to experience living in spaces conceived by ‘Billy’ Burges as privy rooms fit for a medieval lord.
Pilgrims’ refuge turned town hall
The Maison Dieu (meaning House of God) began as a monastery around 1200, offering 'hospitality for all strangers', chiefly pilgrims travelling to Canterbury Cathedral to visit the shrine of Thomas Becket. The site has passed through many uses over the centuries, until 1834 when it was bought by Dover Corporation to be Dover's Town Hall. The Corporation set about converting Maison Dieu for public and civic use, and in 1859 brought in architects Ambrose Poynter to restore the ancient fabric and convert it for its new role. The young William Burges was his assistant. When Poynter’s eyesight failed, Burges took over as project architect. The Maison Dieu was Burges’s only civic commission, and he carefully laid out new facilities within its medieval spaces, envisaging public and civic spaces richly embellished with his distinctive and colourful decorative schemes, fixtures and fittings. However, in 1881 Burges died unexpectedly, leaving his close associates Richard Pullan and John Chapple to complete his works at the Maison Dieu and elsewhere. The site's more ancient past still breathes through the re-purposed spaces.
Decline and revitalisation
Following a period of decline for Maison Dieu, Dover District Council (DDC) undertook an ambitious £8.5m project at Maison Dieu, including support from the National Heritage Lottery Fund, to restore the whole complex and bring it back into vibrant use. Working with DCC and architects Haverstock LLP, we are delighted to have brought the Mayor’s Parlour Block suite of rooms back to life, set in one corner of the upper ground floor with a private staircase to further rooms above.
Live the High Victorian dream
The Mayor’s Parlour itself (originally intended for ceremonial rather than private use) is now the Landmark dining room, centred around the original council table and chairs. The equally colourful Magistrates’ Retiring Room behind, its walls sprinkled with daisies, has become the kitchen.
Burges’s full decorative schemes have been reccreated in the main rooms of this block, which still retains many of original fittings. A private staircase, with views across an internal Gothic court, leads to three well-proportioned bedrooms and bathrooms on the floor above, formerly the Minute Rooms, where clerks once kept the town’s records.
This is a unique chance to experience living in rooms designed by this architectural master of the High Victorian period and a must for anyone captivated by the Gothic Revival – or simply wanting to explore the wonders of Dover Castle and its White Cliffs.
The suite has its own access from the street and is set at the opposite end of the building from the public areas. The rest of the Maison Dieu site is now also open to the public, which Landmarkers will of course be able to explore too.
What this property offers
Floor plan
Things to do nearby
The Mayor’s Parlour is located inside Dover’s revived Medieval town hall known as Maison Dieu. Following a multi-million pound restoration, Maison Dieu is now a vibrant visitor attraction and cultural hub for Dover. Take a guided tour of the building, or take a look at its inspiring events programme.
From Dover town centre, it's a short drive or a 40 minute walk to The National Trust Visitor Centre perched on top of the White Cliffs with spectacular views across the English Channel (on a clear day you can see France). Follow the coast path along to South Foreland Lighthouse at St Margaret’s Bay. This was the site of Faraday's work in pioneering the use of electricity in lighthouses and was the first to display an electrically powered signal. It was also from here that Marconi sent the first ship-to-shore radio transmission. Book onto a tour of the lighthouse, plus The National Trust’s Fan Bay Deep Shelter nearby to explore WWII tunnels and learn about sound mirrors.
For an up-close view of the famous cliffs, take a thrilling boat trip along the coast with Dover Sea Safari from Dover Harbour – head past the White Cliffs to Deal Pier and back, to Pegwell Bay to see seals or out to the Goodwin Sands.
Dover Castle is a great day out where you’ll discover 2000 years of English history, including the only remaining Roman lighthouse in the country, medieval tunnels, Secret Wartime Tunnels and much more. Walmer Castle & Gardens and Deal Castle are beside the sea and worth a trip. Find out more about local castles here.
Good pubs and restaurants include the White Horse Inn, where signatures of Channel swimmers adorn the walls and ceilings, the beachfront Coastguard at St Margaret's Bay or the quaint Lantern Inn at Martin.
For birdwatching and walks in nature, head to Samphire Hoe, the nature reserve created from spoil dug out from under the English Channel to create the Channel Tunnel, and Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory just outside the small medieval town of Sandwich.
Deal is a quintessential English seaside town with an award-winning pier for fantastic views of the seafront and coastline (plus there’s a café at the end). Explore pretty streets of colourful cottages and Georgian townhouses, the independent shops and specialist food outlets, welcoming cafes, bars and restaurants. There’s a vibrant outdoor market on Saturdays and a lovely theatre with a busy programme of events, plus a fascinating local museum.
For even more things to do in and around Dover, head to whitecliffscountry.org.uk.
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Clear directionsPlease note, these directions should be used as a guide only. Full directions will be sent with your booking confirmation letter.
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Essential information
What you need to know about this building
Does the property allow dogs?
No.
How is the property accessed?
From the street (via a staircase up to the property).
What is the nearest railway station and how far away is it?
Dover Priory railway station is just under half a mile from the Maison Dieu. The local buses are run by Stagecoach, www.stagecoach.com, and there is a stop in Ladywell Street, near the entrance to the landmark.
Is there car parking specifically for Landmark guests?
There are permits for two cars to park in the Ladywell car park next door to Maison Dieu.
Any further cars can be parked in the car park but will need to pay and display.
What type of heating does the property have?
There is gas central heating.
What is the mobile signal like?
To check up-to-date mobile network coverage in the area, visit signalchecker.co.uk. Due to the location and structure of many of our buildings, signal strength may differ to those indicated.
Is there WiFi in your buildings?
The majority of properties do not offer WiFi but many now have mobile coverage. Facilities in some properties rely on WiFi to function and we are currently piloting guest use of WiFi at a few of our buildings. We are going to extend the pilot across more properties and review customer feedback in 2025.
What are the kitchen facilities
The kitchen is fully equipped with all plates, cutlery, fridge etc. There is also an electric cooker, dishwasher, separate freezer and microwave.
What are the bathroom facilities?
There is one shower room and two bathrooms, one with a shower over the bath and one with a separate shower.
Is there a garden or outside space?
Yes – there is a small outside courtyard.
Is there higher than expected background noise?
The Mayor's Parlour is within the Maison Dieu, Dover Town Hall. and you may find that general noise levels are above an average level. Events are held in the Town Hall all year round including music events in the evenings. The Mayor's Parlour is opposite the Kent Fire and Rescue Service which operates 24 hours a day.
Booking and payment
What happens if I can’t get to the Landmark due to bad weather?
If the weather is bad, please contact our booking office who will be able to tell you whether the Landmark is accessible. If the housekeeper can safely get to the building to prepare it then we consider that it is open and available for guests. However if we cannot undertake a changeover then we will do our utmost to transfer your stay to another Landmark, depending on what we have available. It may not be of a similar size or in the same part of the country as your original booking. If the building is accessible but the customer cannot travel due to poor weather in his/her local area then please be aware that Landmark will not provide a refund. However the customer may be able to claim on his/her own travel insurance. We recommend that all guests take out travel insurance when they first secure a booking.
How can I pay?
We accept Maestro (if issued in the UK), Visa, MasterCard, direct transfer and sterling cheques drawn on a UK bank. Cheques should be made payable to the Landmark Trust except for Lundy stays and boat/helicopter tickets which should be payable to The Lundy Company Ltd. All payments must be in sterling.
How do I pick up the key?
The key arrangements will be included in the Further Infomation document which will be sent to you prior to your stay.
Can I pay a deposit?
If your stay starts more than two months from the date you make the booking, you are required to pay a deposit of one third of the cost of your stay (or £100 per booking, if greater) at the time of booking. Camping on Lundy and The Bunk House at Llwyn Celyn must be paid for in full at the time of booking.
How can I cancel or change my booking?
If you wish to cancel or change your booking, please contact our Booking Office on 01628 825925
Do you accept payment in other currencies?
At the moment we only accept payment in sterling.
What if I arrive late?
Our housekeeper will leave the key in a suitable place, the details of which will be sent to you prior to your stay.
How far in advance do I need to book?
It depends. Some of our most popular Landmarks are booked up a long time in advance, but many can be booked at short notice. We will always have Landmarks free for the coming weekend so it’s always worth checking our availability list.
Do you have to be a member to book a Landmark?
No, Landmarks are available to be booked for anyone.
Do I need a Handbook to be able to book?
No, all the information you need can be found on our website, although we’d like you to buy one anyway as it will be a pleasure to own!
Staying at a Landmark
Are Landmarks accessible for people with disabilities or limited mobility?
Some of our Landmarks are suitable for people with disabilities or limited mobility. However, many Landmarks have steep or narrow staircases, uneven floors and thresholds, changes of level, low ceilings or beams, as well as indistinct colours on steps and in corridors. We recommend that you call Booking Enquiries on 01628 825925 if you would like to find out the suitability of a particular Landmark for anyone with a specific disability. Further information on access when visiting Lundy can also be found here.
Are Landmarks only available as self-catering accommodation?
Yes, Landmarks are only available as self-catering accommodation. We do not offer bed and breakfast
Do you provide catering?
Landmark does not provide catering, but we can recommend Greycoat Lumleys who can arrange for expert and well-trained staff to cater for one evening or for your entire holiday. Their cooks and chefs are able to work with you to meet your specific requirements
Do you allow dogs?
You may bring up to two dogs to properties where dogs are allowed (please see specific property details for exemptions however dogs are not permitted on Lundy except assistance dogs). They must be kept off the furniture and under proper control. A charge of £20 per stay is made for each dog. Please contact booking enquiries if a registered assistance dog is supporting one of the guests, for which there is no charge.
Can I bring a pet?
Apart from two dogs (see above) no other pets are permitted.
What time can I arrive and what time do I have to depart from the Landmark?
Arrival is from 4pm and departure is by 10am.
Am I insured if I break something?
We do not carry insurance for breakages. However we appreciate that accidents do sometimes happen. If you have a breakage during your stay, please let the housekeeper know and if appropriate we reserve the right to invoice you accordingly.
Are Landmarks suitable for children?
Yes, most of our Landmarks are perfect for children, with gardens to play in and secret places to discover. Our furniture is surprisingly robust and we positively encourage families to stay. However, some of our buildings may not be suitable for small children; for example, some of them have steep or uneven spiral staircases. We recommend that you call the Booking Enquiries team if you would like to find out the suitability of any of our Landmarks for young children.
Can I get married in a Landmark?
Unfortunately, most of our Landmarks are not licensed for weddings. However, you may get married on Lundy.
Can I hold a big party in a Landmark?
All our larger Landmarks are perfect for gatherings of family or friends. You may invite an additional two guests to visit you during your stay, however they must not stay overnight. This is very important because our fire regulations specifically note the maximum number of people in any one building. In addition our properties are prepared, furnished and equipped for the number of people specified and greater numbers cause damage and excessive wear and tear to vulnerable buildings. Should this condition be ignored we shall make a retrospective charge per person per day (whether or not they stay overnight) for each guest over the permitted limit, the charge being pro-rated on the total cost of your booking.
Are there televisions in the buildings?
We deliberately do not provide televisions and find that most people appreciate this.
Why are your access tracks sometimes difficult?
One of the challenges of restoring unloved buildings is gaining access to them. We frequently have to negotiate rights with our neighbours and share tracks with them. In many cases tracks do not belong to us and we have no right to maintain them. Wherever possible we work with our neighbours to provide you with a good quality surface, but where this is a problem then you will be warned at the time of booking.
Will there be sockets for my electrical appliances?
Yes, we have standard electricity sockets for UK appliances. If you are coming from outside the UK, you will need to bring your own adaptor plug(s). If you are visiting one of our European properties we have standard European electricity sockets. If you are visiting from the UK, you will need to bring your own adapter plug (s).
Can I charge my electric vehicle at the Landmark?
Landmark’s electrical systems have not been designed to provide continuous power from one socket over several hours. If an ordinary socket is used to charge an electric vehicle, there is significant risk of an electrical fire and consequent danger to life. Therefore, we are unable to allow electric vehicle charging from most of our Landmarks at present.
We are working to provide Type 2 Electric Vehicle charge points at our properties where there is private parking. Where this is available, please request this facility when booking the property to ensure the outlet is enabled on your arrival. There is a small charge to cover the cost of electricity provided. Please book this facility in advance.
Do you allow smoking in a Landmark?
No, we do not allow smoking in any Landmark.
Facilities
Are the kitchens and bathrooms restored to a modern standard?
Sometimes our kitchens and bathrooms have to be imaginatively fitted into the available space in buildings where before there were none, but they are all planned and equipped to a high and modern standard.
Is linen provided?
Yes, Landmarks are fully equipped with sheets and towels. All the beds are fully made up for your arrival. Except for the Llwyn Celyn Bunkhouse.
Are the kitchens fully equipped?
Yes, our kitchens are well equipped with cookers and fridges. There are freezers and dishwashers (in larger buildings) and, where space allows, microwaves as well as a wide and standard range of utensils. A full equipment list is available at time of booking.
Do you provide logs for the open fire/stove?
Fuel can be purchased from Boxted Berries Farm Shop, 53 Straight Road, Boxted CO4 5RB or from local service stations and supermarkets.
Will there be a mobile signal in the Landmark I book?
Mobile coverage varies. Some Landmarks have an excellent signal, but others have none at all. If you are concerned, you can check with the housekeeper before your arrival.
Is there Wi-Fi in your buildings?
The majority of properties do not offer WiFi but many now have mobile coverage. Facilities in some properties rely on WiFi to function and we are currently piloting guest use of WiFi at a few of our buildings. We are going to extend the pilot across more properties and review customer feedback in 2025.
What should I bring with me? Are there toilet rolls, soap, shampoo, milk, teabags, coffee, hairdryer?
A welcome tray with tea and sugar awaits your arrival and you will find a pint of milk in the fridge. We also provide toilet rolls and a bar of soap per basin, but no other toiletries. Hairdryers are provided.
Do you have other questions?
Our Booking Enquiries team can help with information about each building.
History & restoration
History
'Hospitality for all Strangers'
The Maison Dieu (or House of God) began as a monastery around 1200. The surviving Stone Hall dates from the 13th century, and the tower a century later. After the Reformation closed the monastery, the site was used as a victualling store for the Royal Navy until the early 1830s, when it was acquired by the Board of Ordnance, who demolished parts of the now shambling site. In 1834, they sold the remaining structures to Dover Corporation for conversion to use as a town hall, court room and gaol.
‘The most dazzling exponent of the High Victorian Dream’
After years of delay, from 1859-61 the Stone Hall was restored by architect Ambrose Poynter, assisted by a young William Burges (1827-1881). Burges was an inspired choice for this medieval site. He lived and breathed the styles of the Middle Ages, with a sprinkling of eclectic external influences from the Continent and the Eastern Mediterranean. His biographer J. Mordaunt Crook summed up Burges’s role in the Victorian Gothic Revival as 'the most dazzling exponent of the High Victorian Dream'. The Maison Dieu was Burges's only civic commission and takes its place alongside his better-known buildings like Castell Coch and Cardiff Castle.
Poynter’s eyesight was failing and by 1865, Burges was retained as chief architect for the Maison Dieu. Delays and false starts followed on the part of the Dover Corporation, but early in 1881, Burges submitted his plans for a law court, a fine assembly hall (the Connaught Hall) and sumptuous new mayoral rooms, working within and around the surviving medieval elements. However, in April 1881, Burges died unexpectedly after catching a chill from a ride in dog cart, before work had begun. Burges’s brother-in-law Richard Popplewell Pullan proposed that he and Burges’s principal assistant John Chapple take over the brief. Chapple had worked closely with Burges and both he and Pullan were both deeply immersed in Burges’s design idiom. They completed Connaught Hall and implemented the other realisations of Burges’s designs.
Decorative schemes in Burges’s Gothic idiom
The structure and circulation pattern of the Mayor’s Parlour suite, including the Minute Rooms on the floor above, are as designed by Burges. It is not clear whether their neo-medieval decorative schemes originate from Burges or Pullan or Chapple but perhaps their styles were so entwined that this does not matter. The Maison Dieu is a more attenuated version of Burges’s style, pared down from his artistically peopled interiors as befitted rich personal clients, to a more simple decorative approach, one more attuned to the required mood of civic spaces, as well as to the Corporation’s more limited budget.
Some of the richest interiors at the Maison Dieu are in the Mayor's Parlour (it was never intended as a domestic space). Here the Mayor held ceremonial council meetings at the round table designed by Pullan, sitting on chairs with lion-headed arms. The adjacent Magistrate's Retiring Room formerly led off the Stone Hall beyond, where the court sessions were held (today the Retiring Room is the Landmark kitchen). These rooms were conceived by Burges as the equivalent of privy chambers at a medieval court, with high coffered ceilings and a tall, hooded stone fireplace, for use at moments of civic and judicial ceremony and other important business.
A short history of Mayor's Parlour, the Maison Dieu
Read the full history album for Mayor's Parlour, the Maison Dieu
Restoration
In consultation with Landmark, the Mayor’s Parlour was restored by DDC as part of their overarching project to restore the whole of the Maison Dieu. A transforming highlight was the painstaking recreation throughout of the 1880s decorative schemes. Extensive paint trials were carried out to understand the 1880s decorative scheme, which in the Matyor’s Parlour itself included parrots and butterflies on the corbels and trailing foliage on the hooded chimneybreast. The revealed trial areas were then covered in special protective Japanese tissue paper to ensure their survival, and the whole was scheme then recreated, using stencils as the same technique as in the 1880s and colours carefully matched to the originals. This leaves the original paint schemes on the walls safely intact beneath the layers of later paint.
The elaborate coffered ceiling in the Mayor’s Parlour was never painted over but had dimmed and flaked with time. It was gently cleaned, re-gilded and touched in, to look as bright as it did originally.
Many other original features remain in the Mayor’s Parlour suite of rooms: the chimney pieces in the Parlour and Judges’ Retiring Room; tiled floors and some joinery. The men’s urinal in the apartment is also original, thoughtfully placed close to the Parlour by Burges. The original council table and chairs (probably designed by Richard Pullan), now form a very grand dining set, on loan from DDC. On the second floor, bedrooms and bathrooms have been created in the Minute Rooms, where clerks once toiled on the copious minutes required in the running of Dover’s civic affairs. The medieval past, both real and imagined, still breathes through the Mayor’s Parlour suite’s re-purposed spaces, enhanced by this heady overlay from the imagination of the High Victorians.
Webinar: Inside the Mayor’s Parlour
Learn more through our online webinar, featuring conservation experts Martin Crowther, Alastair Dick-Cleland from the Landmark Trust, and Tom Organ from Arte Conservation, discussing the restoration of Burges’s decorative schemes and the original vision for the holiday let.
Project news
Availability & booking
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A changeover day is a particular day of the week when holidays start and end at our properties. These tend to be on a Friday or a Monday but can sometimes vary. All stays run from one changeover day until another changeover day.