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3 July - 05 July 2026
Experience the magic of Rochester Castle Live – a multi-day summer festival of music, arts, and memories set against the backdrop of historic Rochester, Kent. From July 3 to 5, 2026, thousands of music lovers will gather in the heart of Rochester to celebrate beloved sounds, connect with friends, and make new ones. Rochester Castle Live brings together live performances across multiple stages, featuring everything from chart-topping headliners to breakthrough emerging artists.
Over three sun-soaked days and starry nights, Rochester Castle Live offers a rich mix of genres: indie rock and folk harmonies, dance-pop anthems, soulful R&B tunes, and everything in between. Expect dazzling live sets and unexpected collaborations as each act lights up the stage. Whether you’re itching to sing along to classic anthems, groove to today’s biggest hits, or discover exciting new talent, there’s something for everyone under the open summer sky.
The festival takes place in the scenic setting of Rochester Cathedral's grounds, just steps away from the medieval Rochester Castle walls. This unique historic location creates an unforgettable vibe – picture ancient stone towers bathed in light while your favorite bands play on stage. Daylight brings out the cathedral's soaring arches and castle ramparts, and after dark the castle keep is illuminated to create a magical atmosphere. The blend of medieval surroundings and modern music makes each moment feel truly special.
There’s more to enjoy than just music. Stroll through the festival village discovering an array of food and drink stalls. Local street-food vendors and gourmet food trucks serve up everything from artisan pizza to global cuisine, and you’ll find plenty of local craft beers and colorful cocktails on offer. Take a break on the lawn with a plate of Kentish classics or cool off with a smoothie as live acts play on stage. You’ll even spot roaming entertainers – jugglers, stilt-walkers, and other whimsical performers bringing smiles to visitors of all ages. From family-friendly fun during the day to upbeat dance parties by night, the whole weekend is packed with surprises around every corner.
When you need a breather, soak in the history surrounding you. Rochester itself is a charming town of cobblestone streets and cozy pubs. Grab a coffee on the High Street or wander up to Rochester Castle for panoramic views of the festival. Inside Rochester Cathedral, admire the stunning Gothic architecture while the music buzz hums just outside. Backstage or off-stage, friendly staff and volunteers ensure the atmosphere stays safe and welcoming for everyone. Each element – from the friendly crowd and festival amenities to the historic backdrop – comes together to make Rochester Castle Live more than just a concert; it’s an experience you’ll remember forever.
Get ready to make memories that last a lifetime. Rochester Castle Live 2026 is more than a music festival – it’s a joyful celebration of community, creativity, and the pure joy of live music. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, you’ll feel right at home. Pack your dancing shoes, gather your favorite people, and prepare for an epic weekend under the Kentish sky. See you at Rochester Castle Live!
For public transport: Rochester is very easy to reach. Rochester Railway Station, just a short walk from the cathedral, is on Southeastern's mainline. Frequent trains run from London - about 35 minutes on the high-speed service to London St Pancras (via Stratford International) and around an hour to London Bridge or Victoria on regular routes. Trains also connect directly to Canterbury, the Kent coast (Whitstable, Margate, etc.) and Ebbsfleet International. Arriva buses link Rochester with nearby Medway towns (Chatham, Gillingham), and national coaches serve routes from London and elsewhere.
By car: Rochester sits about 40 miles east of central London. From the capital or the M25, take the M2/A2 into Kent. If coming via the M20 (from Dover/Folkestone), exit at Junction 6 onto the A229 northbound. In town, follow signs for the High Street or Rochester Castle. Note that Rochester Cathedral has no dedicated car park. Instead, park in nearby public car parks (e.g. on Corporation Street, Charles Street or near the station), all just a few minutes' walk from the festival site.
By air & sea: London City Airport is the closest (about 60 minutes by road). Gatwick and Heathrow are roughly 60-90 minutes away by car (via the M25/M23 and A2) and are well connected to London. Stansted and Luton are about 75-90 minutes by road. If arriving from Europe, the Folkestone Eurotunnel is around 45 minutes via the M20/A20/A2, and the Port of Dover is roughly 60 minutes east on the A2. Once in Kent, continue on the A2 toward Rochester.
Accommodation: There are many places to stay in and around Rochester. Within Rochester itself you’ll find boutique hotels, B&Bs, and country inns near the High Street and train station. Nearby Chatham, Gillingham or the Bluewater shopping area also offer a range of hotels and guesthouses. For a countryside stay, Kent has romantic cottages and farmhouse B&Bs (just factor in a short drive back). Festival weekends can fill rooms fast, so book early. Wherever you stay, you’ll be only a short trip from the festival site each day.
| Name | Star | Distance | Prices From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Abbey Hotel | 3.0 ml | £59.00 | Book | |
| The Beaumont | 4.7 ml | £53.50 | Book | |
| The Longmeadow | 4.8 ml | £95.00 | Book | |
| The Shurland Hotel | 5.1 ml | £49.00 | Book | |
| Tonge Barn | 5.2 ml | £79.99 | Book | |
| Hempstead House Hotel | 5.5 ml | £89.00 | Book | |
| Travelodge Medway M2 | 7.6 ml | £42.00 | Book | |
| Roslin Beach Hotel | 8.3 ml | £72.00 | Book | |
| The Camelia Hotel | 8.3 ml | £74.00 | Book | |
| Pebbles Guesthouse | 8.3 ml | £50.00 | Book | |
| Judd s Folly Hotel | 8.5 ml | £50.00 | Book | |
| Park Inn by Radisson Palace Southend-on-Sea | 8.6 ml | £62.30 | Book | |
| Ilfracombe House | 8.8 ml | £54.00 | Book | |
| King Charles Hotel | 8.8 ml | £35.00 | Book | |
| Westcliff Hotel | 8.8 ml | £57.00 | Book |
Rochester Cathedral, Garth House, Rochester, ME11SX
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