History and heritageGardens

Restoration House

Rochester, North Kent

Image: Restoration House

Restoration House is a historic city mansion in the heart of Rochester, named after Charles II's stay on the eve of the Restoration and known as the inspiration for Miss Havisham's Satis House in Great Expectations. Tour the rooms and the walled garden during its short summer season. It suits history and Dickens fans and takes an hour or two.

Highlights

A mansion created from medieval buildings by 1667
Linked to Charles II and the Restoration of 1660
The model for Satis House in Great Expectations
A restored historic garden

Good to know

Bags go in free lockers while you tour the house
Photography is allowed in the garden; in the house only on Fridays from 10am to 1pm
Historic Houses members are welcome

Getting there

Restoration House, Restoration House, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1RF

Get directions

Checked on 15 October 2026 against restorationhouse.co.uk. Details change, so please confirm with the venue before you travel. How we check

Where: Restoration House, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1RF
Price: Tickets are bought on arrival; individual prices are not listed online. Pre-booked self-guided groups of eight or more pay £10 per person, and private guided group tours in April cost £17.50 per person.. Tickets are bought on arrival; individual prices are not listed online. Pre-booked self-guided groups of eight or more pay £10 per person, and private guided group tours in April cost £17.50 per person.
Opening: In 2026 the house and garden opened on Thursdays and Fridays from 11 June to 25 September, 10am to 5pm (last entry 4.30pm), plus Saturday 11 July. Check the website for 2027 dates.
Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Access: The house and garden are not currently suitable for wheelchair users.

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