Reculver Towers and Roman Fort

Free Entry

Exterior can be viewed during daylight hours

Address:

Reculver Lane, Reculver, Kent, CT6 6SS

Before You Go

The imposing twin towers of the medieval church at Reculver dominate the skyline of Herne Bay, acting as a navigation marker for ships at sea. This was the site of one of the earliest Roman forts built against Saxon raids on the 'Saxon Shore'. It later became the site of an Anglo-Saxon monastery before becoming the parish church for Reculver. The tall towers were built in a remodelling of the church in the 12th century.

Much of the site has been lost to coastal erosion, but alongside the twin towers are the ruined remains of the early Roman fort. 

The site has undergoing a major restoration project click on the link to see a film about what we have done to look after this incredible site Conservation in Action: Reculver Towers and Roman Fort - YouTube

Read more about the history of Reculver Towers and Roman Fort.

What's On?

Join our volunteers for special access to the interior tower on the following dates, places are limited and last entry is 15 minutes before closing:

11am-3pm on Thursday 10th April

11am-3pm on Saturday 12th April

11am-3pm on Thursday 17th April

11am-3pm on Saturday 19th April

Before You Go

Parking: There is a charged public car park next to the site, not managed by English Heritage.

Access: There is disabled access to the grounds, via a long slope from the car park.

Facilities: There are toilets and a café available at Reculver Country Park  which is not managed by English Heritage - see the Visit Reculver website for more details.

Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome.

Other Information: Special access to the interior available 11am-3pm on Thursday 10th April, Saturday 12th April, Thursday 17th April, Saturday 19th April. Last entry is 15 minutes before closing.

Drone flying: Please see our Drone guidance

Plan a Great Day Out

After exploring the ruined 12th century church and remains of a Roman 'Saxon Shore' fort, why not continue the Roman theme at Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre, evocatively situated amid the East Kent marshes.  In AD 43 it overlooked a sheltered channel where the invading Roman forces first came ashore. 

Just outside the medieval walls of Canterbury is St Augustine's Abbey, one of the most important sites in English history. Marking the rebirth of Christianity in southern England, the abbey was founded by the saint himself. 

End your day at the coast at Walmer Castle and Gardens.  Discover how the castle honoured the bicentenary of the Battle of Waterloo and enjoy homemade refreshments at the Lord Warden's Tearoom.

Guidebook: Richborough and Reculver

Price: £3.50