Explore Reculver Towers and Roman Fort
Reculver Towers, Reculver Lane, Herne Bay, Herne Bay, Kent, CT6 6SS
The imposing twin towers of the medieval church at Reculver dominate the skyline of Herne Bay, still serving as a navigation marker for ships at sea. This dramatic coastal site was once home to one of the earliest Roman forts built to defend the 'Saxon Shore'. It later became an Anglo-Saxon monastery and eventually the parish church for Reculver. The towers, added during a 12th-century remodelling, now stand amid the ruins of the Roman fort—much of which has been lost to coastal erosion.
During Heritage Open Days, visitors can enjoy special access to the interior of the North Tower between 11am and 3pm, with volunteers on hand to share the site's rich history. Please note that space inside the tower is limited and last entry is 15 minutes before closing.
On Saturday 20th September, a reenactor will be on site showcasing the craft of a medieval moneyer. Visitors can view historic coin dies, tools, and displays, and even assist the moneyer at work. This interactive experience brings medieval coin-making to life, offering a vivid glimpse into the economic activity of the era when Reculver was a thriving religious centre.
No booking required—just drop in and discover centuries of history at one of Kent’s most iconic landmarks.
Timings & Tours
- Monday 15 September:
- 1100-1500
- Tuesday 16 September:
- 1100-1500
- Friday 19 September:
- 1100-1500
- Saturday 20 September:
- 1100-1500 Special activities: Medieval Moneying
- Sunday 21 September:
- 1100-1500
Location & directions
Reculver Towers, Reculver Lane, Herne Bay, Herne Bay, Kent, CT6 6SS
- Directions:
- Reculver Towers and Roman Fort is located on Reculver Lane, Reculver, Kent, CT6 6SS, just east of Herne Bay. The site is easily accessible by car, with a charged public car park adjacent to the ruins (not managed by English Heritage). From the car park, access to the site is via a long sloping path, suitable for most visitors. The site is also popular with walkers and cyclists, situated on the Viking Coastal Trail. Public transport options include local bus services to Reculver from Herne Bay and surrounding areas. Toilets and a café are available at Reculver Country Park, next to the site.
- Contact on day:
- Hannah West
- Telephone number:
- +447747835969
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The site is accessible via a long sloping path from the adjacent public car park (charges apply). This path provides disabled access to the grounds, which are mostly level and grassy. Please note that the terrain may be uneven in places. Special access to the North Tower is available during Heritage Open Days. Entry involves climbing 84 steps across three levels, and may not be suitable for visitors with limited mobility, those uncomfortable with heights or enclosed spaces, or assistance dogs.
Additional information
A maximum of 10 people can enter the North Tower at one time. If the event is busy, this may result in a short wait outside. Please be patient with our volunteers, who will be working hard to ensure everyone enjoys a safe and informative visit. The site is exposed and can be windy. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dogs on leads are welcome around the exterior of the site, but are not permitted inside the towers. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout, but may be limited by the interior tower steps.
