Eastgate House
Eastgate House
Eastgate House
Eastgate House
The Swiss Chalet at Eastgate House
This Grade I listed 16th and 17th Century townhouse is one of the most impressive and distinctive buildings on Rochester’s historic High Street. It also has many fascinating stories to tell…
Once the family home of Sir Peter Buck, a senior officer at the Royal Tudor Dockyard, the house has also been a Victorian boarding school, a hostel, a museum and an inspiration to the great author Charles Dickens.
As part of a £2.2million Heritage Lottery Funded project, Eastgate House underwent major refurbishment works and is now open to the public.
Many of the building's original features and decorative schemes have been carefully restored, and new heating and lighting has been installed. The second floor of the house is open to visitors for the first time in more than 40 years.
Visitors to the house can explore the amazing rooms of the house while learning the remarkable story of those who lived, worked and played here throughout the centuries.
In the gardens of the house stands Dickens’ Swiss Chalet, used by the author as his study at his home at Gad’s Hill Place.
For details of upcoming events at the house visit www.friendsofeastgatehouse.org or follow House on Facebook and Twitter.
Step inside Eastgate House and explore a maze of beautiful rooms and displays telling the stories of those who lives there throughout the centuries.
The splendid oak-panelled ceremony room at Eastgate House features a gorgeous fireplace and offers a true sense of occasion.
Eastgate is a ceremony-only venue that seats 40 guests.
Deck the Halls!
Learn about Victorian Christmas Traditions as you explore the house. You can also try making a tree decoration with our drop in workshop (subject to capacity).
📍Sat, 23 Nov, 11am to 4pm
*Event is free. General admission prices still apply.
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
Sat 30 Nov, Sun 1 Dec & Sun 15 Dec, 12pm, 1.30pm, 3pm, 4.30pm and 6pm
Now a festive favourite in Rochester. Immerse yourself in this unique theatrical adaptation of Dickens’ best loved story, performed in the beautiful setting of the 16th century Grand Reception Room. Please note this year’s performance is fully seated and is around 55 minutes’ duration.
Tickets: £13
Friday, 20 to Monday, 23 December, 11am, 12noon, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm* (*quiet session).
Gather round the fire and hear a magical festive tale about the mice of Eastgate House, read by Victorian Father Christmas in his green robes. Then discover scenes from the story all around the house…
Booking in advanced is recommended. To book, please phone 01634 332700.
Admission prices from 29 March 2024:
For private hire, weddings and educational visits please email.
Address
Eastgate House
High Street, Rochester, Kent
ME1 1EW
Open weekends only from 20 April (except during events) 10am-5pm (last admission 4.15pm). Open bank holiday Monday ( 26 August). Open October half-term 19 – 27 October (closed Monday and Tuesday) 10am-5pm (last admission 4.15pm). Open 4-8, 11-15, 18-23, 28-29 December. Weekends only from 4 Jan 2025.
