Morning (9:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
Start at Rochester High Street
- Explore independent shops and café. Pick up a morning tea or coffee from one of Rochester's many independent cafés like The Deaf Cat Coffee Shop, or Lenny's of Rochester.
- Visit Eastgate House Christmas Shop for unique Christmas gifts in a stylish Tudor setting. Saturday, 8 November - Sunday, 28 December.
Getting There by Train:
- Southeastern trains from London Victoria, St Pancras, or Stratford International to Rochester Station (approx. 35–45 mins from London).
- Eastgate House is approximately a 5–10 mins walk from Rochester Station.
Image showing the Eastgate House Christmas Shop
Early Afternoon (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
Rochester Castle Gardens – Christmas Market
- Over 120 stalls stalls from unique Christmas gifts to festive treats, The Bavarian food village, mulled wine, and festive funfair. Enjoy the multitudes of foods available while enjoying the live entertainment and brilliant festive atmosphere.
- Quiet shopping hours: Fri 12 PM–3 PM, Sun 10 AM–11:30 AM.
Market Dates:
- 28–30 Nov, 5–7 Dec (Dickensian Festival), 12–14 Dec
- Fri: 12 PM–9 PM | Sat: 10 AM–9 PM | Sun: 10 AM–6 PM
Public Transport:
- Train: Rochester Station (5-min walk).
- Bus: Arriva Kent & Surrey routes connect Chatham, Strood, and Gillingham to Rochester High Street. Single fares capped at £3 until 31 Dec 2025.
- Coach: Group bookings accepted during Dickensian weekend.
two people buying festive treats at the Rochester Christmas Market
Afternoon (2:30 PM – 4:30 PM)
Dickensian Christmas Festival (6–7 Dec only)
- Victorian parades, carol singers, and candle-lit procession at dusk. Check out the amazing costumes and singers as they make their way down Rochester High Street, it's not one to miss.
Alternative:
- Guildhall Museum for festive crafts and “Elves on the Loose” trail. A very important Christmas Letter has vanished in the museum, can you help find it with the Elves? (Suitable for children).
A gentleman wearing a top hat blowing a pipe as part of the procession.
Evening (5:00 PM – 7:30 PM)
Dinner & Lights
- Enjoy local pubs or restaurants on Rochester High Street. From Italian cuisine to Bistro Steakhouses Rochester offers a variety of foods and drinks to cater to all tastes.
- Enjoy an expertly crafted cocktail at one of the many bars and pubs along the high-street. From The George Vaults to Bodega 51 there are plenty of options for everyone.
- Stroll along the Esplanade for views of the illuminated castle and cathedral.
An overhead image of the Rochester Christmas Market and the illuminated lights surrounding the Castle grounds.
This is just a taste of what Medway has to offer for this Christmas. There are plenty of other events and attractions to visit this winter. From Mission Christmas at The Historic Dockyard Chatham to the 'Sleeping Beauty' panto at Central Theatre Chatham
