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.
Sunday, 9 March 2025, 2 & 4pm
Dramatic performances, quotes and readings from Jane Austen’s greatest works.
Tickets: £10
Please book via the link below or call 01634 332700
Sat, 12, Sun, 13 and Sat, 19 Apr at 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm and 5pm
Back by popular demand. Come and celebrate the 160th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s classic children’s story, with this magical theatre performance.
Customer reviews of last year’s show:
“Great show, brilliant actors, and very funny.”
“The children loved the show and the interactive nature. It was lovely to be so close to the show.”
Tickets: £12 (adult), £6 (child up to 17 years)
Tickets go on sale Friday, 14 February!
Sat, 31 May and Sun, 1 Jun at 10am to 5pm
A weekend of colourful characters and crazy costumes, suitable for all ages.
Come and learn about the weird and wonderful traditions of Steampunk. Includes a demonstration of Tea Duelling and Familiar Flinging – you won’t want to miss it!
Free with admission to the house.
Sun, 27 Jul at 11am and 2pm
Back in Rochester by popular demand! Rah Rah Theatre present a fun fifty-five-minute show with songs, dancing, and a friendly bear. Bring along a picnic and your favourite teddy. Ideal for children aged 2-6.
Ticket holders can enjoy free admission to Eastgate House and Tiny Teds Trail.
Tickets: £8 (adult), £4 (children aged 2-15 years) and U2's free.
*All children must be accompanied by at least one adult.
Tickets go on sale Friday, 23 May.
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.
