DOVER, a sea-port in the hundred of Bensborough, in the county of Kent, seventy-two miles from London. It is built at an opening between two cliffs, and the streets run in a circular form under the western hill. The old streets are narrow, but of late years many new parts have been added on the eastern shore, which are handsome and airy. It is defended by forts and an ancient castle. The harbour has been formed by means of great labour and expense, and is dry at low water, but, when entered, safe. As the principal place by which communication with the Continent is kept up, it contains numerous inns and hotels, and the trade of the town arises in a great measure from casual visitors and travellers. Dover had formerly five churches, which are now reduced to three. It is governed by a corporation, with a mayor at the head of it. Two members are returned to parliament, formerly elected by the freemen, but now householders have also votes. There are markets on Wednesday and Saturday. The inhabitants amounted in 1801 to 14,845, including the liberty, in 1811 to 9074, in 1821 to 10,327 in the borough alone, and in 1831 to 11,924.