Charles Dickens' Chalet Open Day

Anytime between 11am and 3pm on 12, 13, 14, & 15 September 2024, come along to Eastgate Gardens off Rochester High Street and see inside the ground floor of one of Medway's architectural treasures: the Swiss chalet that belonged to internationally renowned author Charles Dickens. Members of the council's Heritage Team will be available to talk to you about its history and its future!

Timings & Tours

Thursday 12 September:

1100-1500

Friday 13 September:

1100-1500

Saturday 14 September:

1100-1500

Sunday 15 September:

1100-1500

Location & directions

Eastgate Gardens, Eastgate, Rochester High Street, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1EW

Directions:

Charles Dickens' Swiss chalet is situated in Eastgate Gardens, which is just off The High Street, part of Rochester's Eastgate Quarter. Near Eastgate House, Rochester Library and Medway Adult Education, the chalet is only a few minutes walk from Rochester Station. Cross the road opposite the station, turn left and follow the signs.

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

There is level access into Eastgate Gardens itself. Looking upwards, the chalet can be seen at a distance of c.10m by wheel chair users. To get a closer view, there are steps that lead up to the terrace on which the chalet is sited. There are two steps at the the threshold of the ground floor of the chalet itself. In addition access is restricted inside the ground floor by the large wooden and steel brace that prevents the chalet from leaning. The second floor of the chalet is not currently accessible to the public as the chalet's outside staircase and balcony are supported by props.

Additional information

People from the local community are working with Medway Council to explore a sustainable future for the chalet. Ultimately, the hope is to restore this Grade I listed gem and put it back at the heart of Medway's cultural life.

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