The Six Poor Travellers' House
The Six Poor Travellers House, 97 High Street, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1LX
The house was opened by Richard Watts Charities as directed by the will of Richard Watts’ will of 1579 which stated that accommodation should be provided for travellers passing through Rochester. The Poor Law Act of 1576 said that if you had less than fourpence you could be considered a vagrant, whipped and returned to your own parish so the travellers were also given fourpence.
Richard was an eminent citizen of Rochester who had associations with Upnor Castle, the Rochester Bridge Trust and H.M. Dockyard at Chatham. He also represented Rochester in Parliament. 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. Richard Watts died on 10th September 1579 and is buried in Rochester Cathedral.
In 1615 children moved into the house. They were taught to spin, weave or whatever was considered suitable according to their abilities. They were taught to read and write, and many were apprenticed to trades and craftsmen within the city.
Travellers continued to be received in the house until just after World War II had started. The Defence of the Realm Act prohibited casual wayfarers from entering this protected area due to security concerns. Consequently, the house was closed on 20th July 1940 and never opened for travellers again.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 20 September:
- 10am - 2pm
Location & directions
The Six Poor Travellers House, 97 High Street, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1LX
- Directions:
- The house is located on Rochester High Street, there is no on site parking but there are public car parks nearby.
- Contact on day:
- Martin Sissons or Carl Jones
- Telephone number:
- +447483121706
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
There are steps from the front door down to a narrow corridor and further steps to the courtyard garden which are not suitable for access by wheelchairs users.
Additional information
Please contact Richard Watts Charities on 01634 842194 with any enquiries.
- Max no of people per tour:
- 10
- Est. tour duration:
- 45 hour(s)
