Free Entry
Exterior can be viewed during daylight hours
Address:
Reculver Lane, Reculver, Kent, CT6 6SS
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.
Nearby Reculver Country Park, Visitor Centre and events are not managed by English Heritage.
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: There is no access to the interior.
Drone flying: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions. Please see our drone filming guidelines for more details, or email our Filming team.
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.
Heritage Open Days
The towers are open for the first time in many years after an extensive conservation project. Meet the volunteer team to learn more of the history while exploring the interior of the towers.
Sunday 8th September 2024
Monday 9th September 2024
Tuesday 10th September 2024
Wednesday 11th September 2024
Saturday 14th September 2024
Sunday 15th September 2024
10am to 3pm each open day!