Rochester Castle
Rochester Castle
4.5
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
Built in 1087, this castle is one of England's finest and best preserved examples of Norman architecture and the tallest Norman Keep in England. With spectacular views over Medway, Rochester Castle alongside Rochester Cathedral, dominates the skyline. Witness to three sieges, Rochester Castle is steeped in history.
Suggested duration
< 1 hour
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
4.5
1,270 reviews
Excellent
580
Very good
516
Average
148
Poor
13
Terrible
13
Kirstie A
Royal Tunbridge Wells, UK178 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
Our 5 year old enjoyed being inside the castle & finding the knights for the summer challenge. He managed the steps fine but younger ones or anybody with difficulty walking may find it quite difficult. The grounds were lovely & the whole place seems well looked after. Gift shop is quite expensive but the entry fee is not unreasonable, although I would highly recommend a heritage pass to be able to visit numerous times, then you could visit without the kids to have time to read the information.
Written August 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ruth A❤️🐝🇬🇧❤️🐝 🇬🇧❤️🐝🇬🇧❤️🐝🇬🇧
Manchester, UK2,759 contributions
Jun 2022 • Friends
My friend and I walked around Rochester Castle and enjoyed the different rooms, levels and views of the areas below, especially the river and the submarine down there.
You get a real feel for what the castle must have been like way back when! There is information dotted around that tells you all about each room and each area, really interesting.
In a previous review I saw a comment about the pigeons, so we asked the lady on the desk about this and she explained to us how they manage to get in but cannot be reached. As well as that the baby pigeons, although seemingly alone, she explained that the mother will usually return, although some do not. They did not concern us and there have probably been pigeons in the castle and hawks hunting them, since it was built.
It is a magnificent building and so high up, that walking up to it makes you realise how mighty it must have been.
It was a lovely sunny day when we visited and there were people on the grass outside the castle enjoying the day. You can walk on all the grounds and at the bottom of the hill are coffee shops, bars and restaurants, just a lovely area.
Well worth a visit.
You get a real feel for what the castle must have been like way back when! There is information dotted around that tells you all about each room and each area, really interesting.
In a previous review I saw a comment about the pigeons, so we asked the lady on the desk about this and she explained to us how they manage to get in but cannot be reached. As well as that the baby pigeons, although seemingly alone, she explained that the mother will usually return, although some do not. They did not concern us and there have probably been pigeons in the castle and hawks hunting them, since it was built.
It is a magnificent building and so high up, that walking up to it makes you realise how mighty it must have been.
It was a lovely sunny day when we visited and there were people on the grass outside the castle enjoying the day. You can walk on all the grounds and at the bottom of the hill are coffee shops, bars and restaurants, just a lovely area.
Well worth a visit.
Written June 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Iweinvanaalst
Lille, Belgium565 contributions
Sep 2022
Around 1088 Gundulf, bishop of Rochester, erects the curtain wall of Rochester castle by order of king William II. In 1127 king Henry II grants the stronghold to the archbishop of Canterbury on the condition that he build a stone keep.
The fortress is repaired by Henry II after the famous siege of 1216 and a great hall and private accommodation are added.
In 1367 Edward III modifies the main gate, rebuilds the eastern curtain wall, ads a new tower and enlarges an existing one. In 1383 Richard II reinforces the north west corner of the curtain wall with a bastion overlooking the river.
In 1610 James I grants Rochester castle to the Weldon family as a source of income, starting the decline of the stronghold.
In 1827 public gardens are created in the courtyard of the ruined fortress.
*
Visitors can explore Rochester castle with the help of an audio guide, a guidebook, an excellent scale model and outstanding information panels with reconstruction drawings.
Unfortunately large sections of the fortress have disappeared : the main gate, part of the curtain walls, the wall of the upper bailey, the great hall and appartments of Henry III. In contrast, the imposing keep and forebuilding have survived.
The forebuilding houses a storage cellar, a lobby and a chapel. The keep is composed of a basement, three levels (accommodation for the constable, a great hall and accommodation for the king) and a mezzanine (minstrel gallery). You can climb all the way to the crennelated parapet from where you enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding area.
The (remaining) curtain walls cannot be scaled. The towers added by Edward III are equally inaccessible.
The fortress is repaired by Henry II after the famous siege of 1216 and a great hall and private accommodation are added.
In 1367 Edward III modifies the main gate, rebuilds the eastern curtain wall, ads a new tower and enlarges an existing one. In 1383 Richard II reinforces the north west corner of the curtain wall with a bastion overlooking the river.
In 1610 James I grants Rochester castle to the Weldon family as a source of income, starting the decline of the stronghold.
In 1827 public gardens are created in the courtyard of the ruined fortress.
*
Visitors can explore Rochester castle with the help of an audio guide, a guidebook, an excellent scale model and outstanding information panels with reconstruction drawings.
Unfortunately large sections of the fortress have disappeared : the main gate, part of the curtain walls, the wall of the upper bailey, the great hall and appartments of Henry III. In contrast, the imposing keep and forebuilding have survived.
The forebuilding houses a storage cellar, a lobby and a chapel. The keep is composed of a basement, three levels (accommodation for the constable, a great hall and accommodation for the king) and a mezzanine (minstrel gallery). You can climb all the way to the crennelated parapet from where you enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding area.
The (remaining) curtain walls cannot be scaled. The towers added by Edward III are equally inaccessible.
Written September 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Anchina
133 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
We been on the grounds of the castle many times and finally decided to see inside the castle as we joined English Heritage scheme. What a dissapointment.
There are no wheelchair or pushchair access. We had to carry our baby buggy up the stairs and down afterwards.
First of all don't expect any customer service in the shop. The people there don't care about you. No Hello, No Thank you or nothing. We were issued the tickets with no single word said just a quick look at our membership cards and no information given about the audio guides or the castle itself. Nothing at all. Didn't feel welcomed at all. The lady at the till looked too busy with her phone than anything else also when we came out and were looking at the items in the shop.
Secondly I won't call it a castle. It is castle ruins and a souvenir shop. If you don't listem to audio guide and the weather is not too nice you will be done in 15- 20 minutes. There are very steep stairs at some places. We visited with two kids and we had to carry them up and down the stairs most of the time. Which was fine with us. There was an exposition in one room with buttons where none of them worked.
It just felt like we came somewhere where we shouldn't have with no greeting at all. Felt awkward.
As castle ruins it is impressive place but not a castle. Do not expect paintings or shiny knight armor statues.
I am rating it low as no customer service at all and it is not really a castle.
There are no wheelchair or pushchair access. We had to carry our baby buggy up the stairs and down afterwards.
First of all don't expect any customer service in the shop. The people there don't care about you. No Hello, No Thank you or nothing. We were issued the tickets with no single word said just a quick look at our membership cards and no information given about the audio guides or the castle itself. Nothing at all. Didn't feel welcomed at all. The lady at the till looked too busy with her phone than anything else also when we came out and were looking at the items in the shop.
Secondly I won't call it a castle. It is castle ruins and a souvenir shop. If you don't listem to audio guide and the weather is not too nice you will be done in 15- 20 minutes. There are very steep stairs at some places. We visited with two kids and we had to carry them up and down the stairs most of the time. Which was fine with us. There was an exposition in one room with buttons where none of them worked.
It just felt like we came somewhere where we shouldn't have with no greeting at all. Felt awkward.
As castle ruins it is impressive place but not a castle. Do not expect paintings or shiny knight armor statues.
I am rating it low as no customer service at all and it is not really a castle.
Written January 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your review. We welcome all feedback and utilise it when developing the offer at Rochester Castle. We're sorry that the Castle didn't meet your expectations. We hope you're enjoying your English Heritage membership by exploring lots more Heritage sites.
Written October 5, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
John A
Brentwood, UK350 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
We had planned to explore the castle and grounds but arrived to find the grounds closed for an event. Signage was very poor as to accessing the keep and no signs to alternative car parks
The keep was worth the visit but again we packed access to the audio tours and the fixed information signs do not have enough on then.
Checking English heritage website it told us about events later on the month closing the grounds but not the one on the day of our visit. Disappointed.
The keep was worth the visit but again we packed access to the audio tours and the fixed information signs do not have enough on then.
Checking English heritage website it told us about events later on the month closing the grounds but not the one on the day of our visit. Disappointed.
Written September 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Daniele U
London, UK20 contributions
Nov 2022 • Solo
It's a remarkable historic site. A really haunting place. The hollowness of it makes it even more interesting. There is not much left of the castle itself unfortunately but the Keep and the walls around it are just beautiful and you really feel humbled. Walls and garden are free. The Keep costs around £8, I have the English Heritage membership but I think it's worth the money. Also, it helps EH with the costs of maintaining it. The climb is approximately 150 steps but there are plenty of places to rest, so you won't have to keep climbing until you reach the top. Also, there are lots of corridors you can walk into to circle around the Keep and those will also offer some respite.
Written November 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
pauline546h
Dunstable, UK25 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
The Castle looked very stunning from outside but unfortunately it was closed due to a function being held there. Manged to take pics outside but could not take any others as we could not get in as closed. We were disappointed best to check before you go there
Written September 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Richard S
Bracknell, UK612 contributions
Aug 2021
Beautiful location next to the cathedral, beside the river Medway. The castle is still at its full height of 125 feet, you can climb the ramparts and benefit from spectacular views over the city, cathedral and local area. Te castle is preferably a dry day activity, as the stone staircases between levels are quite narrow, and worn down over the years, as is to be expected.
Written September 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
shazzzalongley
Cambridge, New Zealand1,382 contributions
Aug 2021
What a fantastic way to spend some time exploring this remarkable building. It was built for the Bishop of Rochester in 1080 and you can see the holes in the brickwork that was used to hold the wooden floors. There is a good amount of information boards throughout the building. The view from the top is also very good.
Just be aware there are around 300 steps to the top, however there are lots of places to rest and look at in-between steps.
Just be aware there are around 300 steps to the top, however there are lots of places to rest and look at in-between steps.
Written September 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Cherriesfan99
Cheltenham, UK671 contributions
Oct 2021
The castle grounds are free to enjoy, you pay to visit the massive keep. It is a substantial climb to the top of the castle, and with great views from there. Inside, the keep however surprisingly it is an empty shell with its centre open to the elements. The route to the top involves climbing 5 floors, inside its massive walls. The spiralling steps (over 200) are uneven, very narrow closest to the centre of the flight, and in places very dark, and slippery after rain. Superb views though.
Surprisingly very little information the history of the castle, but great fun if you have the stamina to enjoy that climb.
Surprisingly very little information the history of the castle, but great fun if you have the stamina to enjoy that climb.
Written October 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Vicky G
4 contributions
I’m coming to the castle grounds for a picnic and the forecast is rain! Can I bring a gazebo do you know? Thanks
Vicky G
4 contributions
I’m coming to the castle grounds for a picnic and the forecast is rain! Can I bring a gazebo do you know? Thanks
My Name is Glenn Hestelow! I’m an Australian! I am a Retired Architect and Historian! I’m going to build a 1/64 Scale Castle Based on Rochester Castle!
Question: Did they use Joists in the Construction of the Floors of Rochester Keep???
Kind Regards
Glenn
Heritage Operations Manager
Rochester, UK
Hi,
There are most definitely joist holes still visible today.
How much money is it to take a tour for one person?
BenLilyTegan
Faversham, UK253 contributions
You didn’t state your age, so here’s all the prices 👍
Adult: £6.40
Child (5-17 years): £4.00
Concession: £4.00
AixWorm
Nimes, France7 contributions
Are we able to sit in the grounds and have a BBQ?
Heritage Operations Manager
Rochester, UK
I'm afraid we don't allow BBQs in the grounds
hodgesplodge
weston super mare38 contributions
How long do I need for a visit
Soo M
Rochester, UK81 contributions
The the actual castle , maybe half an hour , but the grounds are lovely to picnic in, the view of the river is nice , and the whole area is so steeped in history it’s worth lingering , especially if you like dickens . Visit the guildhall museum , the cathedral , there are lots of antique shops , second hand book shops , souvenir shops , places to eat , etc etc , and it’s all pretty much on the level , apart from the approach to the castle .
Riversidezoe
Southend-on-Sea, UK81 contributions
are you open tomorrow, 27th December please?
Lissa C
London, UK28 contributions
As others have said: yes, looks as if it will be open. Just a thought if you haven't visited before: the high walkways, which are open to the sky, are bound to be wet and windy, so be sure to dress accordingly and wear footwear suited to slippery steps. Have fun.
Charmaine S
Walthamstow, UK14 contributions
Can anybody tell me the best place to go in Rochester to eat as I am going to the dickens festival at the weekend any help please
mikejbondy
London, UK69 contributions
I can definitely recommend ' Ye Arrow ' pub .........just at the bottom of Boley Hill....near Rochester Cathedral...........Great starters and main courses........good prices.....Gets busy.....a popular place......a good roast carvery on a Sunday too........well worth a visit.....Best time to go is Mid-day I reckon......
Charmaine S
Walthamstow, UK14 contributions
Can anyone tell me how far away is the Dickensian festival from Rochester train station do I have to walk very far thanks
Heritage Operations Manager
Rochester, UK
Hello, it isn't far at all. The train station is in a road that runs parallel to the High Street. Simply cross that road and you will be in the heart of Rochester.
Rochester Castle - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Rochester Castle
- Rochester Castle is open:
- Tue - Sun 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- We recommend booking Rochester Castle tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 6 Rochester Castle tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Rochester Castle:
- Private Kent castles (From $810.42)
- Cruise Ship Pickup Private Tour (From $871.51)
- Private Kent Castles and White Cliffs of Dover from London (From $903.93)
- Charles Dickens Rochester and Kent Day Tour (From $381.54)
- Charles Dickens Full-Day Private Tour in Rochester (From $1,175.05)
- Hotels near Rochester Castle:
- (0.09 mi) Kings Head Hotel
- (0.13 mi) Medway Little Townhouse
- (0.13 mi) Gordon House Hotel
- (0.25 mi) Travelodge Rochester
- (0.11 mi) Royal Victoria & Bull Hotel
- Restaurants near Rochester Castle:
- (0.10 mi) The Quills
- (0.10 mi) The Cheese Room Botanicals
- (0.11 mi) Tiny Tim's Tea Rooms
- (0.10 mi) Fish At 55
- (0.10 mi) Rico Sabor
- Attractions near Rochester Castle:
- (0.06 mi) Rochester Cathedral
- (0.12 mi) Guildhall Museum
- (0.12 mi) City of Rochester Society Guided Walks
- (0.15 mi) Six Poor Travellers House
- (0.09 mi) Wolfe & Castle