Rochester Castle
Rochester, North Kent
Image: Rochester CastleRochester Castle is an imposing medieval fortress guarding an important crossing of the River Medway, with a complex history of destruction and rebuilding. Climb through the great keep for views over the river and city, then explore the cathedral and historic high street close by. Allow an hour or two.
Highlights
- Imposing medieval keep
- Views over the River Medway and Rochester
- Close to Rochester Cathedral and the historic high street
Good to know
- Run by Medway Council; English Heritage members get in free
Getting there
Rochester Castle, Castle Hill, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1SW
Get directionsChecked on 15 October 2026 against english-heritage.org.uk, visitmedway.org. Details change, so please confirm with the venue before you travel. How we check
Nearby
Image: Rochester CathedralRochester Cathedral
Rochester Cathedral stands close to the castle in the heart of historic Rochester and is free to visit. Explore the cathedral and its medieval crypt, where there is a café, and see the Textus Roffensis exhibition. Pair it with the castle for a half day in Rochester.
Image: Visit MedwayRochester Guildhall Museum
Rochester Guildhall Museum on the High Street packs in local history, from a 200,000-year-old hand axe to a gallery on Charles Dickens. Climb to the Main Chamber, see Rochester Castle under siege in 1215 and walk aboard a reconstructed prison hulk. It suits families and history fans and pairs well with the castle and cathedral nearby.
Image: Restoration HouseRestoration 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.