Watts Almshouses
Watts Almshouses, Maidstone Road, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1SE
Come and join us in celebrating this beautiful building and the fascinating history of Richard Watts Charities. A well known figure in 16th Century Rochester, Richard Watts had links to the Navy, Rochester Cathedral, the Wardens of Rochester Bridge and Upnor Castle. The arrival of Elizabeth I at Richard's home on Boley Hill for tea, during her tour of the country in 1573, undoubtedly caused a stir.
Documents chosen from the Watts Archives presents a timeline of how the Charity has evolved to become what it is today and provide an intriguing peek into the lives of the residents and staff who once lived and worked here. There are some surprises.
Trustees, residents and staff will be here to discuss the services provided by Watts today and one or two of the almshouses will be open for you to visit if possible.
You can relax in the Common Room where refreshments will be provided. We really look forward to welcoming you.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 14 September:
- 1000-1400 (last tour 1330)
Location & directions
Watts Almshouses, Maidstone Road, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1SE
- Directions:
- Entrance for cars is on Watts Avenue, limited parking for visitors
- Contact on day:
- Fleur Gannon
- Telephone number:
- +441634842194
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The Common Room, refreshments and a toilet are accessible by wheelchair and for pushchairs/prams via the rear of the building. The main path around the building is fairly flat but there are slopes in a few places. Access at the front of the building is via steps. There are steep stairs up to the Board Room and exhibition, which is not accessible by wheelchair. There are a few parking spaces for visitors on site. Dogs are welcome in common areas although they may not be permitted in an open almshouse; that will be dependant on the individual resident's preference.
Additional information
- Max no of people per tour:
- 6
- Est. tour duration:
- 0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)
