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Rochester Castle

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You are here: Things To Do > Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle

Medway Towns

Type: Castle / Fort

Tel: 01634 332901

Book Tickets

Accessibility.

• Induction Loop System
• Information on Audio Tape on Request
• Audio Commentary in Foreign Languages
• Dutch audio guide
• French audio guide
• German audio guide
• Picnic Site

Establishment Features

• Garden / Grounds for visitors use
• Groups welcome
• Open all year round
• Open on bank holidays

Parking & Transport

• Parking (charge) - At nearby Pay and Display car parks
• Railway station within walking distance

Payment Methods

• Delta accepted
• Groups Accepted - Essential to pre-book group visits
• Maestro Accepted
• MasterCard accepted
• Min group size - 20
• TIC Staff Admitted Free
• Visa accepted

Provider Preferences

• In town/city centre
• Outdoor Attraction

Specialist Features

• Marketed Towards Families

Tours and Demonstrations

• Educational Visits Accepted

TripAdvisor

Map & directions.

Click here to view the map.

Road Directions

From M2/A2 exit at junction 2, A228 and follow the signs for Rochester. Rochester Castle is situated at the river end of the High Street.

Public Transport Directions

Nearest rail station is Rochester. The castle is within easy walking distance from the station.

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• English Castles
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• Rochester Castle

VISIT  ROCHESTER  CASTLE  WITH ENGLISH  HERITAGE  MEMBERSHIP

- Up to 6 Kids go free

- Free Parking at English Heritage

- Receive our Handbook

- Unlimited access to over 400 days out

TICKETS & PRICES

Adults: £7.70 Children 5-17 Years : £3.40 Families:   £19.95 Senior: £5.60

Quick Navigation

Visiting rochester castle.

• History of Rochester Castle
• Rochester Castle Images

Rochester Castle Occupants

• Rochester Castle Q&A & Facts
• Rochester Castle Location / Directions
• Places too Stay

Rochester Castle Events

Rochester castle architecture.

• What to do and see at Rochester Castle
• Other Places to Visit near Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle is a Norman fortress built in 1086. It sits on a strategic stretch of land at a major crossing of the river Medway. Over its lifetime, the castle suffered damage from three sieges and underwent numerous repairs. Today, the keep and grounds can be toured by buying a ticket from English Heritage.

There is no public parking available at Rochester Castle . Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the numerous nearby Pay-and-Display car parks.

Disabled parking spaces are located at Kings Head Disabled Car Park just across the road from Boley Hill Car Park.

Coaches may drop visitors off behind the Information Centre and utilise the free-of-charge coach park on Corporation Street. 

Rochester Castle offers admission at a fixed-rate.

Please note that during special events (not hosted by English Heritage), members may be required to pay an admission fee.

Visitors arriving from across the pond can save on admission to the castle (and various other English Heritage locations) by buying an Overseas Visitors pass .

Visitors can take advantage of joint tickets for three separate locations, including:

Upnor Castle

• Eastgate House

“Bundle” tickets are available for purchase. These joint tickets allow entry to all three sites for one price.

Prices for the joint ticket are available in the table below:

The castle is open Tuesday through Sunday. It is closed on Mondays, excluding bank holidays.

Opening hours from April through September are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. From October to March, Rochester Castle opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 4 p.m. Final daily admission is issued no later than 45 minutes before closing time.

To ensure the castle is open on the date of your visit, please see the Rochester Castle calendar on the English Heritage website. Simply select the date of your visit to see the hours of operation.

Rochester Castle tends to be busiest during events and on bank holidays and weekends. The most active hours are between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. To avoid the crowd, it’s best to visit on a weekday before 11 a.m. or after 2 p.m.

Location and Access

The physical address of Rochester Castle is:

Castle Hill

Rochester Castle sits in the town centre of Rochester. To access the site by vehicle:

• From the north, near Cambridge, use the M11 to the M25. Then, follow the A2.
• From the east, near Canterbury, use the M2 to A229 to A2.
• From the south, near the Kent city centre, use A229 to A2.
• From the west, near London, take A2 to Rochester.

For satellite navigation, enter the following coordinates:

• Latitude: 51.388724
• Longitude: 0.503601

Bus access to Rochester Castle is available via Arriva and Nu Venture. Passengers may depart the bus at Corporation Street within walking distance of Rochester Castle.

The nearest train is Rochester Railway Station, about 0.8 kilometres (0.5 mi) from the castle.

Know Before You Go

• The castle has no on-site food facilities. However, there are several snacks, light foods, and beverages available for purchase from the castle gift shop.
• Picnics are permitted. Rochester Castle has an extensive bailey with plenty of grassy areas. Guests are welcome to bring their own food to the site to enjoy a picnic on the castle grounds.
• Visitors can find the gift shop inside of the ticket office. The gift shop offers up numerous products for purchase, including gifts, themed items, and souvenirs.
• Toilets are available on-site. These facilities may be found within the Castle Gardens. An accessible toilet is available and may be accessed using a RADAR key .
• Dogs are welcome on the castle grounds. However, they are not permitted in the buildings and must remain well-behaved and on a lead at all times. Exceptions are made for assistance animals. Keep in mind, there are no toileting sites or dog bowls available.
• The site is not wheelchair accessible. Access to the castle entrance requires walking up a steep hill. Due to the numerous stairs (a spiral staircase leading to the top of the castle and steps to reach the ticket office/shop) and no lift access the site is not accessible.
• Accommodations are available for the deaf and blind. Those with hearing difficulties and vision impairments may benefit from the tour transcripts and braille guides.

Places To Stay Nearby

Travelodge rochester hotel.

0.5 km (0.3 mi) west

Travelodge Rochester is a budget accommodation that’s perfect for those visiting Rochester Castle. The pet-friendly facility boasts air-conditioned rooms and free on-site parking (first come, first served) for guests. Its convenient location is only a six-minute walk from the Rochester Railway Station and the Guildhall Museum, and a seven-minute walk from Rochester Castle. Guests have the option to purchase breakfast and WiFi at an additional charge.

The Golden Lion Rochester

0.8 km (0.5 mi) south

The Golden Lion is a hotel offering scenic views of the surrounding town. Each air-conditioned room boasts free WiFi internet, a private en-suite bathroom, a television, complimentary toiletries, and tea and coffee makers. For convenience, there is an on-site restaurant and bar offering various food and drink options. The site is only a two-minute drive or nine-minute walk from Rochester Castle.

Premier Inn Rochester Hotel

3.7 km (2.3 mi) southwest

Premier Inn Rochester is only a seven-minute drive from Rochester Castle. Guests staying at the Premier Inn receive free on-site parking and WiFi. Each air-conditioned room includes a vanity area, tea and coffee facilities, and a hairdryer. Double, twin, family, and accessible rooms are available. The on-site “Thyme” restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, with the option to purchase a meal deal for extra savings on restaurant fare during your stay.

History of Rochester Castle 

Rochester Castle was built by Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester, at the request of William Rufus in the 1080s. Its dominating keep was erected in 1127, commissioned by King Henry I. The castle endured three separate sieges, and though it fell into ruin during the 1600s, it remains an important structure in England’s history.

- Post-Norman Conquest (Original Castle)

Historians believe that William the Conqueror built a wooden castle with outer earthworks on the site of modern-day Rochester Castle just after the Norman Conquest.

- 1080s (Rochester Castle Constructed)

King William Rufus, William the Conqueror’s son, commissioned Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester, to build Rochester Castle at the crossing of the River Medway, and to rebuild the wooden outer defences in stone.

- 1127 (Castle Keep Erected)

King Henry I planned the building of a great castle keep, and commissioned William de Corbeil, Archbishop of Canterbury, to complete the job. The Archbishops of Canterbury maintained control of Rochester Castle throughout much of the 12th century.

- 1141 (The Earl’s Imprisonment)

During King Stephen’s rule, was held prisoner at the castle.

- 1215 (Great Siege)

Archbishop of Canterbury, Stephen Langton, maintained control of the castle during the First Barons’ War. However, baronial forces took over the castle. King John wouldn’t stand for the castle being held against him, so he besieged the fortress, causing the destruction of the southwest turret. The siege lasted seven weeks before the garrison surrendered after running out of provisions.

- 1217-1232 (Castle Repairs)

After the end of the First Barons War, Rochester Castle was in control of the Crown. The fortress underwent numerous alterations and repairs during this time. Repairs were completed on the hall, buttery, dispensary, and keep. In addition, a stone wall was erected, dividing the castle grounds, and residential buildings were constructed.

- 1244-1248 (More Buildings Added)

Another chapel was built next to the royal apartments, and a stable was erected in 1248.

- 1249-1256 (Gatehouse Rebuilt and Keep Repaired)

To enhance the castle’s fortifications, the gatehouse was rebuilt. In 1256, additional repairs were completed on the keep. Numerous buildings were erected in the bailey, including the king’s chamber block.

- 1264 (Simon de Montfort’s Siege)

The Second Barons’ War broke out and Rochester Castle was besieged yet again, this time by Earl Simon de Montfort. At first, Royal forces were able to force the barons from the castle. However, after their defeat at Lewes, the garrison surrendered. The siege led to extensive damage and the castle fell into disrepair. The burnt out ruins of buildings in the bailey were demolished in 1281.

- 1314 (Elizabeth’s Imprisonment)

Elizabeth de Burgh, Queen of Scots, and wife to Robert Bruce, King of Scotland, was held prisoner for four months at Rochester Castle.

- 1340-1362 (Further Disrepair)

The castle continued to stand in a derelict state, with weathering worsening its overall condition.

- 1367-1383 (Castle Repairs)

Although towers were built and the curtain wall underwent numerous repairs during this time, the castle was still in disrepair. The keep, gatehouse, hall, kitchen, and stable still stood on the site, though they were in desperate need of renovation. Despite this, the keep remained in use. In 1381, the Peasants’ Revolt broke out, which was the last military action at Rochester Castle. In the decade following the revolt, additional repairs were completed.

- 1423 (Unknown Period)

After Henry V’s death, his widow, Catherine de Valois, inherited Rochester Castle. Upon her death 14 years later, the castle passed into the hands of the Clerk of the King’s Works. There is much uncertainty regarding what happened at the castle during this time until the late 16th century.

- 1599-1601 (Upnor Castle Construction)

Due to the ruinous state of Rochester Castle and its lack of importance, stone was removed from the site (with the approval of Elizabeth I) and used to construct Upnor Castle, a more important fortification.

- 1660s (Destructive Fire)

Historians believe a fire broke out in the castle keep, causing the building to fall further into disrepair.

- 1870 (Public Gardens)

The 7th Earl of Jersey, Victor Child Villiers, leased Rochester Castle to the Rochester Corporation. The organisation opened the bailey to the public. Its ivy-covered stone walls and various plants and trees made it a scenic public park.

- 1884 (Rochester Corporation Purchases the Castle)

After over a decade of leasing the site, the Rochester Corporation purchased Rochester Castle. Various repairs were carried out over the next two decades.

- 1965 (Ministry of Works)

The second-half of the 20th century saw the Ministry of Works take control of Rochester Castle’s keep.

- 1984-Present (English Heritage)

Nearly two decades after the Ministry of Works assumed ownership of Rochester Castle, responsibility was granted to English Heritage, who continues to manage the site as of 2023. Medway Council continues to maintain the keep and gardens.

• Post-Norman Conquest: William the Conqueror built the first wooden castle at Rochester.
• 1087: Bishop Odo took over the original castle after William the Conqueror’s death, but William’s sons (Robert and William Rufus) fought over the estate.
• 1088: William Rufus ultimately took control of the castle, and requested that Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester, rebuild the structure in stone.
• 1127: William de Corbeil, Archbishop of Canterbury, was granted the castle by King Henry I upon his brother’s (William Rufus) death. The castle would remain in possession of the Archbishops of Canterbury in succession until 1217.
• 1139: Theobald of Bec, Archbishop of Canterbury, inherited the castle after William de Corbeil.
• 1162: Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, was granted the castle in succession.
• 1174: Richard of Dover, Archbishop of Canterbury, took over after Thomas Becket.
• 1184: Baldwin of Forde, Archbishop of Canterbury, occupied the castle a decade after Richard of Dover.
• 1193: Hubert Walter, Archbishop of Canterbury, took over after Baldwin of Forde.
• 1207: Stephen Langton, Archbishop of Canterbury supported the rebels during the First Barons’ War, which led to tensions with the king. He was the last Archbishop of Canterbury to occupy the castle.
• 1215: King John forced Langton to hand over the castle. A rebellion ensued, with William d'Aubigny, Lord of Belvoir, occupying the castle. Although King John ultimately won, Prince Louis of France’s forces came to help the baronial forces. However, after John’s death a year later, the war ended.
• 1217: Henry III, King John’s son, removed control of Rochester Castle from the Archbishopric of Canterbury, officially putting the castle back into the hands of the Crown.
• 1423: Catherine of Valois inherited the castle and used it as her residence. Upon her death in 1437, it reverted back to the Crown.
• 1610-1884: Sir Anthony Weldon was given the castle by King James I. However, the castle was considered uninhabitable at this time. Despite this, Anne of Denmark travelled to the site for dinner. The Weldon family maintained possession for over 100 years, before it passed to the Child family. The Child family would go on to sell Rochester Castle to the Rochester Corporation in 1884.

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/siteassets/home/visit/places-to-visit/rochester-castle/description/rochester-castle-site-map.jpg  

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rochester_Castle_cutaway_model7022.JPG  

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/siteassets/home/visit/places-to-visit/rochester-castle/research/reconstruction-1140.jpg  

General Layout

Today’s Rochester Castle is not the first castle erected on the site. However, there is much uncertainty regarding the original castle, and its exact location is unknown. It’s believed it was built by William the Conqueror, and may have been a motte-and-bailey design, complete with a wooden palisade and outer earthworks.

The current castle was built between 1087 and 1089 . It boasted a curtain wall surrounding the site, and the castle was rebuilt in stone. During the 1220s, it featured a two-storey chamber block, a circular drum tower, a large bailey, and a gatehouse.

Original Layout

Rochester Castle sits in the southwest corner of Rochester at the crossing of the River Medway. Its defining feature was the square-shaped Norman keep, and this remains the focal point today.

Curtain Wall and Towers

The fortress was surrounded by a curtain wall and a ditch. The castle stood at a massive 6.7 metres (22 feet) and was wider at the base, measuring 1.4 metres (4.5 feet) thick at the bottom and 0.61 metres (2 feet) at the top. Embrasures were added during the 13th century.

Adjacent to the western curtain wall stood a two-storey chamber projecting out of the wall. This was constructed during the first-half of the 13th century for King Henry III . He also commissioned the building of the circular drum tower, which sat in the southeast corner. This tower measured about 9.1 metres (30 feet) in diameter.

The eastern wall included two towers, each two-storeys, built during the late 14th century. The northern tower was used as a royal accommodation and was more elaborately designed than the other (plain-by-comparison) tower. 

Today, visitors enter at the northeastern end of the castle. This is the location of the original gatehouse, constructed in the 11th century.

Visitors would cross a raised stone pathway to cross the ditch that once surrounded the castle. From here, they would cross through an arch that sat between the two rectangular towers that jutted out from the curtain wall.

The gatehouse included a tower and postern gate. It’s believed that this tower had an apparatus in place that allowed those inside the castle to pull up supplies from the river below.

The gatehouse was rebuilt in the 13th century.

Castle Bailey

Rochester Castle’s bailey is still roughly the same size as it was during its heyday. This area once contained vast Victorian gardens and numerous buildings, likely including a hall, stables, workshops, and a well. The massive Norman keep sits at the southwest end of the bailey.

The keep is, by far, the most commanding part of Rochester Castle. The top of the turrets measures an incredible 38 metres (125 feet) in height. Rochester Castle’s keep is the tallest surviving keep in England.

Like the curtain walls, the walls of the keep are wider at the base and narrow towards the top. The bottom part measures 3.7 metres (12 feet) thick and the top measures 3 metres (10 feet).

The original keep was severely damaged in 1215 when King John laid siege to the castle. As a result, the southwest turret was rebuilt during his son’s (King Henry III) reign in a cylindrical shape, while the others remained square.

A rectangular turret held the entrance to the keep which opened to a receiving space. Within this waiting area was another door, complete with a portcullis, leading to the keep’s main space.

The keep boasted numerous windows with moulding of various designs. The higher windows were bigger than those below, and featured elaborate carvings and arches.

Access to the various levels of the keep was via a spiral staircase in the northeast corner of the structure. At the southwest corner was another staircase that led from the first floor to the top level. Both the northwest and southwest turrets originally included several small chambers, though the southwest tower’s layout was changed after it was rebuilt.

Inside the keep was a detailed interior, complete with wooden floors, latrines, and several fireplaces. The basement acted as a storage space and the two ground floors served as living quarters for the castle garrison.

The second level included the royal accommodations and gathering space, likely a hall. This level was by far the most elaborate , featuring large columns, moulded pilasters, and rounded archways with chevron designs. It’s believed this level may have once included a throne or king’s table. At the north of the second floor was a chapel, likely decorated with wall paintings, though none remain.

On the floor just below the roof sat the king’s chambers.

Modern Layout

The ditch that once surrounded Rochester Castle has been filled in.

Today, part of the curtain wall still stands, though it was rebuilt in the 19th-century. However, at the western end is an 11th-century herringbone pattern, dating to the castle’s construction in 1086. The northern end of the wall was destroyed to provide a more scenic view of the Rochester Cathedral.

The original gatehouse, turrets, and postern gate were dismantled in the 1870s and the area was transformed into a garden.

Although the keep still looks much as it did in its heyday, it has undergone some alterations throughout its over-900-year history. The original timber roof and floors are no more, but visitors can still see remnants of the elaborate window mouldings.

The bailey, which once housed numerous buildings, is the site of the Castle Gardens.

Images of Rochester Castle

Images Supplied and licensed from Shutterstock Standard Licence Package

What Can I See During Visit to Rochester Castle?

• Explore the extensive garden grounds. Rochester Castle’s bailey once included numerous buildings, including workshops and stables, but today, it is a vast garden. Feel free to walk along the grassy banks while taking in the picturesque views of the massive Norman keep. The spacious, open area is perfect for allowing children to roam, or for hosting a picnic.
• Check out the impressive Norman keep. Although the wooden flooring and roof are long gone, you can still get an idea of the interior layout based on the walls and windows. You’ll see old passageways, spiral staircases, and the remnants of decorative mouldings on the windows and chevron patterns along the archways.
• Climb the battlements to take in unbeatable views. If you’re not afraid of heights, head up to the 27-metre-tall (88 ft) battlements and explore the wall walk. From there, look around to see the breathtaking views of the River Medway and the beautiful town of Rochester.
• Attend one of Rochester Castle’s special events. The site is regularly the location for festivals, concerts, reenactments, and family-friendly affairs.
• Visit the nearby Rochester Guildhall Museum. Rochester Castle may not have its own on-site museum, but there is plenty to see at the Rochester Guildhall Museum . The museum is only a five-minute walk from the castle. Here, you can see and hear what may have happened during the castle siege of 1215.

Rochester Castle Facts

• King John used pig fat to light a fire under the keep during his siege. Forty swine, overweight, were used for their fat. The fat was then used to light fire to the wooden props beneath the keep. This resulted in the collapse of the southeast corner of the keep, forcing those in the castle to move to the northern end.
• Rebels within the castle resorted to eating horse flesh. After King John laid siege, the conditions became worse and worse. Their provisions ran out, and the garrison resorted to eating the flesh of their own horses. To save on provisions, some men were forced out of the keep to surrender, and some sources say their hands and feet were amputated by King John’s army.
• The castle is haunted by a “lady in white.” As the story goes, Ralph de Capo held the fort during the 1264 siege to protect his fiancé, Lady Blanche de Warenne. He made chase when the enemy retreated. A soldier entered and made advances to Warenne who refused his embrace. Capo saw the struggle and shot an arrow . Sadly, it didn’t hit his intended target and instead struck Warenne, killing her. Some say she still hangs around the castle, seen with an arrow stuck in her chest.
• Charles Dickens supposedly haunts the castle, too. Dickens grew up in nearby Chatham, and was quite fond of the area, including Rochester. He refers to the castle in some of his works, and rumours say he longed for the fortress to be his final resting place. Though his wishes were never fulfilled, some say he wanders the castle in spirit.

Rochester Castle Q&A

What was rochester castle used for.

Rochester Castle was used as a strategically important military location. Since the fortress sat on the River Medway on a direct route to London, it was a critical site during times of war. The castle was also used as a luxury living accommodation, as evidenced by the once-lavish interior of the keep.

What Happened at Rochester Castle?

The most famous event that happened at Rochester Castle was the siege of 1215, led by King John. It’s said that his army used pig fat to ignite a fire beneath the structure, leading to its collapse. During the assault, the garrison ran out of provisions and resorted to eating the meat of their own horses.

Is Rochester Castle Still Standing?

Rochester Castle still stands, though the buildings in the bailey no longer survive. Additionally, some areas have been rebuilt, including part of the curtain wall. The Norman keep still towers above the area and is the tallest surviving structure of its type in England.

What Are Some Interesting Facts About Rochester Castle?

Some interesting facts about Rochester Castle include it being subject to King John’s bloody siege, it acting as a prison for Robert, Earl of Gloucester, and Elizabeth de Burgh, Queen of Scots, and finally, it is the site of numerous reports of alleged hauntings.

Location of Rochester Castle

The town of Rochester is located in Kent, England. It sits within the London Basin, and is approximately 50 kilometres (30 miles) from London.

The King’s School, the second-oldest running school in the world, is located in Rochester. In addition, the town is home to numerous historic buildings, including the Guildhall, Eastgate House, and the Rochester Cathedral. Many of the buildings within Rochester’s town centre date as far back as the 14th century.

Other Places To Visit Near Rochester Castle

Rochester cathedral.

Rochester Cathedral has been in operation since 604 AD. Every year, thousands of people pass through its doors, whether to view the spectacular building or to pray. Guided tours are available, and may be booked through the Rochester Cathedral website . The cathedral is located about 0.2 kilometres (0.1 mi) from Rochester Castle, and can be seen from the site.

Temple Manor

Temple Manor dates back to the 13th century. Those visiting this architectural beauty can see remnants of mediaeval wall art, walk the picturesque gardens, and learn more about the history of the temple and its association with the Knights Templar. The site is located about 0.8 kilometres (0.5 mi) from Rochester Castle.

This commanding artillery fort sits on the scenic riverside, creating a spectacular sight. Built in 1559, Upnor Castle was built to protect nearby docked warships. Visitors can walk the grassy banks, enjoy a picnic, and explore the historic site. The castle sits about 2.9 kilometres (1.8 mi) from Rochester Castle.

• English Heritage: Rochester Castle - Directions
• English Heritage: Rochester Castle - Prices & Opening Times
• Visit Medway: Rochester Castle Access Statement
• Motability: RADAR Keys Explained
• English Heritage: Rochester Castle - Facilities
• English Heritage: Rochester Castle - Access
• Visit Medway: Rochester Castle - Live Interpretation
• Visit Medway: Rochester Castle - Knights Code of Chivalry Tale
• Rochester Castle Concerts - Home
• Medway Council: Medway Food and Drink Festival
• Visit Medway: Rochester Castle
• Facebook: Rochester Castle - Events
• English Heritage: Rochester Castle - Description
• English Heritage: Rochester Castle - History
• English Historical Fiction Authors: The Rise and Fall of a Fortress
• Atlas Obscura: Rochester Castle
• Medieval Chronicles: Unveiling the Evolution of Norman Castles
• Unofficial Royalty: Elizabeth de Burgh, Queen of Scots
• Medway Council: Rochester Guildhall Museum
• Great Castles: The White Lady of Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle

View of Rochester Castle from Boley Hill

Strategically placed astride the London Road, guarding an important crossing of the River Medway , this imposing fortress has a complex history of destruction and rebuilding. Today it stands as a proud reminder of the history of Rochester , along with the cathedral and cobbled streets.

In 1087 Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester began the construction of the castle. One of William the Conqueror’s greatest architects, he was also responsible for the Tower of London. Much of what you see remaining of the walled perimeter remains intact from that time. William de Corbeil, Archbishop of Canterbury was also a contributor to this grand castle building project. Henry I granted him custody of the castle in 1127, a responsibility that lasted until King John seized the castle in 1215.

In 1215, garrisoned by rebel barons, the castle endured an epic siege by King John. Having first undermined the outer wall, John used the fat of 40 pigs to fire a mine under the keep, bringing its southern corner crashing down. Even then the defenders held on, until they were eventually starved out after resisting for two months.

Rochester Castle remains one of the most impressive Norman fortresses and continues to attract visitors from far and wide.  

A trip to Rochester Castle will now be an experience for all of your senses.

From Thursday, 14 September, three smelling stations will be installed at the Norman castle.

The smelling stations will give visitors the chance to step back in time and get an even better sense of what the historic building would have been like hundreds of years ago.

Visitors will be able to get a whiff of the food store. This was one of the most important rooms in the castle and would have been filled with fish, poultry, cheese, herbs and spices as well as ale and wine.

Moving on to the chapel, you can expect strong incense smells like myrrh, ambergris, cinnamon, saffron, rosemary and more. This smell sensation is inspired by 11th century medieval manuscripts.

The last stop is the cess pit, which is definitely one for braver visitors. This is where all of the castle’s waste, both human and animal, would have ended up – so be prepared!

Siege of Rochester Castle 

In 1215, garrisoned by rebel barons, the castle endured an epic siege by King John.

In this short film we learn more about this siege and why we now have one round tower and three square ones

Support Services

Rochester Castle Access Statement.

Rochester Castle Educational Visits.

Kent's Children's Universities.

Rochester Christmas Market 2024

29th November - 15th December 2024

• Adults: £8.50
• Children (5-17 yrs): £4.00
• Concessions: £6.00
• Family (2 adults, 2 children): £22.50
• English Heritage Members and Under 5's: Free

Rochester Castle Castle Hill, Rochester Rochester ME1 1SW

Opening Times

Tuesday to Sunday, between 10am and 6pm, with last admission 45 minutes before closing. Closed Mondays except on Bank Holiday Mondays.

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The History of Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle is one of the best examples of Norman Architecture in England. It is located on the east bank of the Medway River and offers dramatic views. It is managed by English Heritage and has its name in the list of best-preserved castles in the world. Visit Rochester Castle and get the essence of its history.

Rochester Castle was constructed by Normans shortly after 1066 CE, after the battle of Hastings. The land was acquired from the Bishop of Rochester in exchange for land in Aylesford. The first castle structure was designed using wood and included a dry moat and curtain wall.

Odo Bayeux (d. 1097 CE), the bishop of Bayeux in Normandy, became the owner of Rochester Castle. He later became the Earl of Kent and the second most powerful man in England and used the castle as his base. Later, in 1087, the Odo lost the castle to a siege. Between 1087 and 1089 CE, it was rebuilt and converted into a stone structure under the order of William Rufus, the new owner.

In 1127 CE, the castle was granted to Bishops of Rochester by Henry I of England. And the keep we see today was added between 1127 and 1136 CE under his order. In 1172 CE, Henry II of England again worked on the castle and spent over 100 pounds on the project. It was a big amount at that time. In 1206 CE, King John was the next owner of the castle, and he spent 115 pounds on upgrading the castle. However, in 1215 CE, the king had to siege the castle.

In 1215 CE, the Rochester castle had to see some greatest crisis, and it became a pawn in kings, archbishops and barons’ complex game. Later, in July 1215 CE, the castle was given to Stephen Langton, the Archbishop of Canterbury. Sooner in August, the castle’s ownership was transferred to Peter Des Roches, the Archbishop of Winchester. In September, the controls of the castle were seized by a group of rebel barons led by William De Albini. Later on 11th October, King John sent his troops and besieged the castle. After the attack, the castle was badly damaged and was rebuilt, adding a corner section.

In 1225 CE, other additions were made in the Rochester Castle, like protective walls, fortifying the southern gate, and a deep moat. In 1233 CE, the drum tower was added with the curtain walls. Later, the castle was sieged and besieged many times, and the recent owners did many repairs on it. After the 14th century, the castle was not involved in any military activities, and James I granted it to Sir Anthony Weldon. During this time, various schemes related to the castle came and ended. In 1965 CE, the corporation of Rochester was given a lease to the Ministry of Public Buildings and Work.

Since 1984 CE, the castle has been managed by English Heritage and is open to the public.

Architecture

Rochester Castle doesn’t have any existence of its first structure as it is one of the oldest castles in England. Now the castle you see has a little touch of all its owners. It took the form of Motte and Bailey castle and later got changed due to its weak structure.

The main tower and the gateway you see in the castle are from the 14th century. It has a richly decorated keep with hangings and furnishings from that era. It is built in the southern corner of the castle and has a square plan. These are about 12ft thick at the base and 10ft taper at the top. The primary material of the castle is Caen Stone, the same material used to build White Tower in London. It also includes the turrets , which are approximately 125feet tall. The castle windows are higher up on the walls and are decorated. It has a spiral staircase in the northeast corner.

The northwest and southeast corners of the castle include the small chambers, giving it a symmetrical design. The castle has a simple overall plan with few rooms. Now, the castle might not be seen in its best position, but you can check out its layout, gun runs, original floor, chapel, curtain walls, and towers and explore the gardens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is special about rochester castle.

Rochester Castle is one of the oldest castles in England. It had many owners, and each of them was able to leave their presence in its style. You can also notice some original features of the castle from the 10th to 12th centuries. It is situated on River Medway and Watling Street, giving the best views of Rochester.

Can you go inside Rochester Castle?

No, the Rochester Castle can’t be explored from inside. It is currently closed because of maintenance reasons. However, you can go and check out its exterior, structure, and gardens.

Have you visited this castle before? If yes, why not share some beautiful pictures with us! You can email us your pictures of the castle at  [email protected] . Please use the name of the castle in the subject line. Also, don’t forget to mention your name and social media profile link if you want the credits!

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Debayan Dey

He is a versatile E-Learning Support Officer and former Academic Officer at the University of York, United Kingdom. Not just an expert in education and technology, Debayan also has a deep love for castles and mountains. With a passion for travel, having explored 168+ cities worldwide, and a keen eye for photography, He brings a unique blend of experiences to the table. Specializing in E-learning content, IT support, AR development, and software engineering, Debayan has made a significant impact, educating over 200,000 students on Udemy.

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Rochester Castle Live

Rochester Castle, a stunning location, becomes truly magical when lit up for events. Live acts like Human League, Nile Rodgers and Chic, UB40, and The Libertines have performed here, drawing diverse crowds. This beautiful setting transforms into an enchanting venue, offering unforgettable experiences for both locals and visitors.

In 2024, an exciting lineup of events is set to unfold at Rochester Castle! Get ready for Down Town, SuperBoxx, and the returning favourite, Uptown Festival, following the sell-out success of 2023. We've got some extra exciting news coming your way, so stay tuned for updates—we'll keep you posted. Make sure to follow us on social media to catch all the fantastic happenings lined up for the summer of 2024

Events are all about bringing people together to socialize, interact, and immerse themselves in incredible music from top-notch acts, creating unforgettable memories. Don't forget to capture those moments with your camera phone, share your experiences, and tag us to spread the joy with others. Sharing those memories amplifies the fun and excitement for everyone!

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Rochester Castle Access Statement

Medway Council has a commitment to the provision of high quality services and endeavours to understand and meet individual customer needs.

The council strives to provide a quality experience to all and is committed to providing accessibility for all visitors where possible. Rochester Castle is an historic building which can be challenging for some visitors with disabilities. The castle staff will be pleased to help you. For information and assistance please see our Accessibility Statement for the castle.

Rochester Castle is located in the town centre at the top of Castle Hill.

Before you visit, Rochester Castle is open from 10 am to 6pm from April to September and from 10am to 4pm October-March. Last admissions are 45 minutes before closing.

Public Transport  The nearest train station is Rochester

Parking There are pay and display car parks in Rochester., with a disabled parking car park located opposite Boley Hill car park.

Refreshments Rochester High Street offers a wide range of cafe and restaurant options within easy reach of the castle.

Toilet Facilities Toilets are within the grounds of Rochester Castle, with a disabled toilet available to use with a Radar key.

Entrance and Reception The Entrance to Rochester Castle Gardens is up a short, but steep hill, the grounds have a tarmac route and interpretation signage is available throughout.

Castle Grounds A gravel path approximately 3m wide takes visitors up to the castle. The grassed areas are large and flat, ideal for picnicing.

Castle Keep Access to the Keep is via a flight of modern, wooden stairs with a handrail. Entrance to the ticket office is up these stairs. There is a hearing induction loop installed in the reception counter. Audio guides are available to hire for £1. Information panels in English and French meet the requirements for visually-impaired visitors.

Shop Inside the Castle Keep, there are 50 external, shallow, even wooden steps to the ticket office and shop.

Contact Information Address: Rochester Castle Castle Hill Rochester Kent ME1 1SW

Phone 01634 335882 Email:  [email protected]

Other useful numbers: Visitor Information Centre: 01634 338141 Medway Council Customer Services: 01634 333333 Customer Services minicom: 01634 333111