Watts Almshouses Heritage Open Day

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, would have undoubtedly caused a stir.

The Story of Watts exhibition (also available online) will provide a flavour of how the Charity has evolved over the last 446 years from its formative years in The Six Poor Travellers' House. This year the Charity has expanded its catchment area from ME1 and ME2 to the whole of Medway, yet another milestone in its history.

Residents, trustees, and staff will be on hand to guide you around the site, provide a brief history and chat about current services. You can relax in the Common Room with refreshments and cake. We look forward to welcoming you.

Access information - there are steep steps to the Board Room and exhibition, which is not accessible by wheelchair or easily accessed with a pushchair. There is step free access to the Common Room and refreshments. Most of the tour route is flat (with a camber in the road). Access to the open flat could be restricted depending on which flat is available for viewing on the day. If you have any questions regarding access, please call Fleur Gannon 01634 842194 or email fleur.gannon@richardwatts.org.uk. There is limited parking on site. Dogs on leads are welcome, although they may not be allowed in the open almshouse, dependant on the resident’s preference.

Tour details - tours will run through the day as and when a volunteer guide is available and will start up until 1.15pm. Please be prepared to wait. There is no guarantee that you will get on a tour if you arrive at 1.15pm as people may already be waiting. We suggest arriving between 10am and 12.45pm if you would like to take the tour.