A chance to see inside the ground floor of Charles Dickens' iconic 160-year-old, Grade I listed Swiss chalet, situated next to Eastgate House, in Eastgate Gardens, off Rochester High Street. Talks and tours on offer throughout.
Anytime between 11am and 4pm on 12, 13, 19 & 20 September 2026, come along to Eastgate Gardens off Rochester High Street and see inside the ground floor of one of Medway's architectural treasures: the Swiss-style chalet that belonged to internationally renowned author Charles Dickens. Members of the council's Heritage Team, the Friends of Eastgate House and the Charles Dickens Fellowship will be available to talk to you about its history and its future!
Talks and tours will also be offered at certain times during the open days.
The Story of the Chalet talk takes about 15 - 20 mins. It covers the story of the chalet, Dickens writing of Drood, how it could memorialise other writers with a Rochester connection, and inspire future writers. Talks will run at 11am & 12noon on 12th September, 2pm & 3pm on 13th September, 2pm & 3pm on 19th September, 11am & 12noon on 20th September. No need to book.
The Mystery of Edwin Drood tour takes 60 to 90 mins. It explores how this book connects more closely to Rochester (Cloisterham) than any of Dickens’ other works. The tour will take in places mentioned in the novel and make connections between the novel and life experience in Rochester in the mid 19th century.
The tour will start at the chalet and then travel to the High St , Crow Lane, Vines, Minor Canon Row, Chertsey’s Gate, the City Wall pub and back to Eastgate House. Booking required.
The Story of the Chalet Talk
The Story of the Chalet talk takes about 15 - 20 mins. It covers the story of the chalet, Dickens writing of Drood, how it could memorialise other writers with a Rochester connection, and inspire future writers. Talks will run at 11am & 12noon on 12th September, 2pm & 3pm on 13th September, 2pm & 3pm on 19th September, 11am & 12noon on 20th September. No need to book.
Edwin Drood tour around Rochester - Prebooking required.
To book a place on a tour, call 01634 332700 or email [email protected]
Address
Charles Dickens' Chalet Open Day Swiss Chalet, Eastgate House Gardens, Rochester ME1 1EW
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