Restoration House: Rochester’s Elizabethan Jewel and Dickensian Inspiration
Explore Restoration House, an exquisite Elizabethan mansion in Rochester that hosted King Charles II and inspired Dickens’ Satis House, with stunning gardens and rich history.
Restoration House in Rochester, Kent, is a remarkable Elizabethan mansion formed by joining medieval buildings in the 17th century. Known for hosting King Charles II on the eve of the Restoration and inspiring Dickens’ Satis House, it features exquisite period interiors and extensive gardens. Carefully restored by dedicated owners, it offers visitors a rich historical experience with knowledgeable guides and a charming tearoom.
A brief summary to Restoration House
- 17-19 Crow Ln, Rochester, ME1 1RF, GB
- +441634848520
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Thursdays or Fridays between June and September for full access to house and gardens.
- Allow at least 75 minutes to fully explore the house’s interiors and the extensive gardens.
- Chat with the knowledgeable volunteer guides to enrich your visit with fascinating historical anecdotes.
- Take a break in the charming tearoom located in the former kitchen area, offering delicious sandwiches and tea.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From London St Pancras International, take a Southeastern train to Rochester station (approx. 1 hour 10 minutes). From the station, it is a 15-minute walk on mostly flat terrain to Restoration House. The route is accessible and well-signposted.
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Bus Service
Local bus services from Rochester town centre run regularly to Crow Lane area, with a 5-10 minute walk to the house. Buses operate frequently during daytime hours; check local timetables for schedules. Tickets cost around £2-£4.
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Car
Driving to Restoration House is possible but parking is limited nearby. Public car parks in Rochester town centre are available within a 10-minute walk. Charges apply, typically £2-£5 for a few hours. Note that the house itself has no dedicated parking.
Restoration House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Restoration House
A Historic Tapestry Woven from Medieval Origins
Restoration House is a unique architectural gem in Rochester, Kent, formed by the amalgamation of two medieval buildings dating from the mid-15th and early 16th centuries. These were linked by a third structure in the early 17th century, creating the grand mansion recognized today. The house’s striking red brick façade, towering gables, and vertiginous chimneys showcase the Mannerist style, while its many ancient windows reveal layers of history. Scientific dating confirms the south wing’s origins in the 1450s and the north wing’s construction between 1502 and 1522, with the central range added soon after to unify the complex.Royal Connections and Literary Legacy
The house is famously linked to King Charles II, who stayed here on the eve of his Restoration to the throne in May 1660. The property was owned by Sir Francis Clerke, who was knighted during the royal visit, and the house was specially prepared to receive the King. This historic event gave the house its name. Restoration House also inspired Charles Dickens’ depiction of Satis House in "Great Expectations," the gloomy home of Miss Havisham. Dickens, who lived nearby, drew on the mansion’s dramatic architecture and atmosphere to create one of literature’s most memorable settings.Architectural and Decorative Richness
Inside, Restoration House reveals exquisite Elizabethan craftsmanship, including a picturesque Great Staircase and original paneling with rare black and gold decoration. The house features unusual construction details such as double floors filled with silver sand, likely intended to deter rodents. Over centuries, the interiors have been carefully restored to reveal fashionable mid-17th-century decorative schemes influenced by Continental tastes, including French Grey paint, marbling effects, and japanning. The current owners have painstakingly preserved and uncovered these layers, presenting a vivid snapshot of the period’s style.A Living Home with Eclectic Collections
Unlike many historic houses, Restoration House remains a lived-in home, with owners who actively collect period furniture, paintings, and curiosities. The interiors are richly furnished and frequently refreshed, offering visitors new discoveries on each visit. The house exudes an intimate atmosphere enhanced by passionate volunteer guides who share stories and insights, bringing the history and character of the house to life.Gardens: A Surprising Urban Oasis
The gardens of Restoration House are far more extensive than expected for a city mansion, featuring three distinct areas with immaculate landscaping. Visitors can explore winding paths, arches, and shaded seating areas that provide a tranquil retreat from the town’s bustle. The gardens complement the house’s historic charm and offer peaceful spots to relax, often enjoyed alongside refreshments from the on-site tearoom.Preservation and Renewal Through the Ages
The house’s survival through centuries of change owes much to dedicated owners and restorers. After a period of decline and near ruin in the 20th century, including ownership by entertainer Rod Hull who invested heavily but went bankrupt, the house was rescued and restored by Jonathan Wilmot and Robert Tucker from 1994 onward. Their sensitive use of traditional materials like lime mortar and plaster has ensured the building breathes and remains protected from modern damage. Their stewardship has returned Restoration House to its former glory, making it accessible to the public and preserving its rich heritage for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Falklands Island Monument
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Laindon War Memorial
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Southchurch Hall
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Prittlewell Priory
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Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
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National Trust - Rayleigh Mount
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Rayleigh Windmill
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Experience the enchanting history and scenic beauty at Rayleigh Windmill, a heritage gem perfect for families and history buffs alike.
Barleylands Farm Park
24.3 km
Experience the charm of Barleylands Farm Park, where family fun meets educational adventures in the heart of the countryside.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
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Explore Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood, a nurturing haven for rescued animals and a must-visit for nature-loving tourists seeking compassion and education.
Havering Museum Ltd
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RHS Garden Hyde Hall
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Explore the enchanting RHS Garden Hyde Hall, a botanical paradise filled with stunning landscapes, diverse plant life, and delightful cafes.
Ingatestone Hall
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Experience the grandeur of Ingatestone Hall, a historic Tudor mansion offering a glimpse into England's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Mountnessing Windmill
31.8 km
Explore the unique charm of Mountnessing Windmill, a historic attraction offering captivating views and a glimpse into England's milling heritage.
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
32.5 km
Experience family fun and educational adventures at Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park in Brentwood, where animals and amusement come together.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
35.7 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Unmissable attractions to see
Eastgate House
0.2 km
Discover Eastgate House, a beautifully restored Tudor townhouse in Rochester with rich history and Charles Dickens’ iconic writing chalet in its tranquil gardens.
Six Poor Traveller House
0.3 km
Step into Tudor philanthropy and Dickensian charm at Rochester’s historic Six Poor Travellers House, a timeless sanctuary for travellers since 1579.
Rochester Cathedral
0.3 km
Explore Rochester Cathedral, England’s second oldest cathedral, a Norman and Gothic masterpiece with 1,400 years of history, art, and spiritual heritage.
Rochester Castle
0.4 km
Explore one of England’s finest Norman castles with towering keeps, epic siege history, and stunning views over the River Medway.
Guildhall Museum
0.5 km
Explore Medway’s rich history in a stunning 17th-century Guildhall with immersive exhibits from Roman times to Dickensian England.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham
2.1 km
Step aboard history at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, where centuries of British naval heritage come alive across 80 acres of ships, galleries, and craftsmanship.
The Leather Bottle
7.4 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Cobham, beloved by Charles Dickens, offering seasonal local cuisine, a cocktail lounge, and expansive gardens.
St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
7.4 km
Discover Cobham’s medieval gem, St Mary Magdalene Church, famed for its stunning architecture and England’s finest collection of medieval brasses.
Coalhouse Fort Park
10.0 km
Explore a Victorian riverside fortress steeped in history, surrounded by tranquil parkland and sweeping Thames views.
Tilbury Fort
11.7 km
Explore Tilbury Fort, a stunning 16th-century riverside fortress guarding London with star-shaped bastions, rich history, and scenic Thames views.
Canvey Wick
15.4 km
Discover Canvey Wick, a unique brownfield nature reserve in Essex, famed for its rare insects and vibrant habitats born from industrial past.
Fantasy Island
15.4 km
A vibrant seaside amusement park on Canvey Island offering thrilling rides, family fun, and scenic waterfront views.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
16.6 km
A monthly nostalgic dance party for over 30s featuring 80s and 90s classics at Greenhithe’s welcoming Royal British Legion.
Bluewater Shopping Centre
17.2 km
Kent’s premier shopping and leisure destination with over 300 stores, diverse dining, and unique entertainment in a stunning natural setting.
Brands Hatch
17.6 km
Experience the thrill and history of Brands Hatch, Kent’s iconic motor racing circuit with legendary corners and world-class events.
Essential places to dine
La Quinta Restaurant & Venue Hire - Benfleet Essex
20.1 km
Experience superb dining, lively entertainment, and warm hospitality at La Quinta, Benfleet’s premier restaurant and event venue.
The Dining Room
20.2 km
Cozy British and European dining with fresh, local ingredients and friendly service in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Leigh Bistro Restaurant
20.4 km
Charming family-run bistro serving fresh contemporary European cuisine in the vibrant heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Aspera
20.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a stylish and welcoming setting in Benfleet.
Toulouse Restaurant
20.9 km
Modern European dining with fresh local flavors and stunning estuary views on Westcliff-on-Sea’s Western Esplanade.
Oyster Creek Kitchen
21.0 km
Fresh seafood and coastal charm on the Westcliff waterfront, where attentive service meets seaside sophistication.
Padrino Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
21.1 km
Classic Italian dining with warm hospitality and flavorful pizzas in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea.
Prowse Restaurant
21.1 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality meet seaside charm at Prowse Restaurant in Westcliff-on-Sea.
Piccolo
21.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively dining by Southend’s beautiful seafront at Piccolo, a beloved Westcliff-on-Sea restaurant.
Great Tides Restaurant & Bar
21.4 km
Modern European dining with stunning sea views and a vibrant bar atmosphere on Westcliff Parade, Westcliff-on-Sea.
Il Mondo Southend
21.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea at Il Mondo Southend.
Aurum Restaurant
21.8 km
Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
La Petite Petanque
21.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
San Fairie Ann
21.9 km
Eclectic Modern European dining with vibrant live music and unique events in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
The Royal Hotel
21.9 km
Historic charm meets modern dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s iconic Royal Hotel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts for All Home Decor
20.0 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
Latham Street
20.2 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion reimagined with style and care at Latham Street in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Store Thirty3
20.2 km
A charming gift shop on Elm Road offering unique local treasures in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea’s vibrant coastal town.
A Touch Too Wild
20.4 km
Elegant bespoke ladies' couture and formal wear boutique in the charming seaside town of Leigh-on-Sea.
La Luna Boutique
20.7 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
Eliza Boutique
21.4 km
Discover timeless style and personalized service at Eliza Boutique, Westcliff-on-Sea’s independent ladies’ fashion destination.
Argosy Toys & Gifts
21.8 km
Discover a treasure trove of toys and gifts at Argosy Toys, a cherished independent shop in Westcliff-on-Sea since 1947.
By the Sea Vintage
21.9 km
Discover curated retro fashion and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant Alexandra Street.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
21.9 km
Discover authentic luxury fashion with curated unworn and pre-owned designer pieces at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea.
Books-on-Sea
22.0 km
Rare and secondhand literary treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea's town centre.
Santas Surprise Letter
22.0 km
Discover festive magic and unique personalized Santa letters at Santas Surprise Letter, Southend-on-Sea’s charming holiday gift shop.
ideal gift shop
22.2 km
Discover unique and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea’s welcoming Ideal Gift Shop on London Road.
Africa Crafts Centre
22.2 km
Discover authentic African crafts and vibrant textiles in Southend-on-Sea’s beloved cultural gift shop.
Southend Rock & Gifts
22.2 km
Discover charming seaside souvenirs and unique gifts at Southend Rock & Gifts, nestled on the vibrant Marine Parade.
The Happy Sole
22.2 km
Discover the charm of Westcliff-on-Sea at The Happy Sole, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Kitchen
20.1 km
A lively cocktail bar and tapas spot in Leigh-on-Sea, famed for creative drinks, generous small plates, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ten Green Bottles
20.2 km
A cozy, quirky bar tucked away in Leigh-on-Sea’s Rectory Grove, offering great drinks, live music, and a friendly vibe.
Peggy’s Music Bar Ltd
21.0 km
Experience vibrant music nights and a welcoming vibe at Peggy’s Music Bar, Leigh-on-Sea’s hotspot for DJs and social fun.
View Bar
21.7 km
Friendly seaside bar with great views, well-priced drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere on Southend’s Clifftown Parade.
The Trading Room Bar & Kitchen
21.7 km
A vibrant pub and kitchen in Westcliff-on-Sea offering hearty roasts, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Cliff
21.8 km
A lively, inclusive LGBT+ pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great cocktails, karaoke nights, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Alex
21.9 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great vegan options, casual British fare, and a vibrant social scene.
The N & M Club
21.9 km
Historic social club on Southend’s cliff top offering live entertainment, real ales, great food, and stunning sea views in a welcoming atmosphere.
Legbas - Private Hire Speakeasy Bar
21.9 km
An exclusive, vintage-inspired speakeasy bar in Southend-on-Sea’s Royal Hotel basement, perfect for private celebrations and crafted cocktails.
Aloha Lounge
22.0 km
Experience a vibrant tropical oasis in Southend-on-Sea with exceptional cocktails, island-inspired cuisine, and warm, welcoming vibes at Aloha Lounge.
The Terrace Bar & Restaurant
22.0 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar with lively entertainment and a spacious terrace near Southend’s iconic seafront.
Infinity Showbar
22.0 km
A vibrant hub for karaoke, drag shows, and late-night parties in Southend-on-Sea’s lively Alexandra Street nightlife district.
Twelve Brunch & Cocktails
22.0 km
A lively hotspot in Southend-on-Sea where brunch delights meet expertly crafted cocktails in a trendy, vibrant setting.
The Hush Bar
22.0 km
A lively and affordable bar in Southend-on-Sea with a welcoming vibe and vibrant music scene for all-night socializing.
The Prim and Proper Cocktail Bar
22.0 km
Basildon’s premier mobile cocktail bar delivering expert mixology and stylish service to your private events and celebrations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Loft Basildon
20.6 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
The Moonraker Club
21.1 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
21.2 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
Sunrooms2
22.0 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
Foundation
22.0 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
MYST Club
22.0 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
22.3 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife at MooMoo Clubrooms, where themed rooms and lively beats create unforgettable party nights.
Just Vibez
22.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
The Lounge Jazz Club
24.4 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
CQ LOUNGE
34.0 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
LA Lounge
36.2 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
Faces NightClub
36.9 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
37.0 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
American Express Invites Lounge
37.0 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
37.3 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
