Architectural Students Gain Inspiration from Dickens’ Writing Chalet

A New Future

For over 60 years, Charles Dickens’ Writing Chalet has been situated in the grounds of Eastgate House, Rochester. Here it was once visited and enjoyed by visitors of all ages from far and wide. However, over the past 50 years, there has been limited public access due to its deteriorating condition – a situation we are determined to change!

For a more detailed account of the Chalet’s history, visit www.geofframbler.blog/2024/06/04/dickens-writing-chalet

Together but Separate

Eastgate House and the Chalet were inspirational places for Charles Dickens. Eastgate House features in two of his novels (Pickwick Papers and The Mystery of Edwin Drood), and the Chalet was a place in which he was inspired to write. For their mutual benefit, the two need to be reunited for the benefit of visitors, in respect of Dickens as well as their architectural significance.

A New Partnership – Friends of Eastgate House and Medway Council

A Partnership is now being developed between the Friends of Eastgate House and Medway Council to restore the Chalet to a condition that will enable public access. The Chalet will pay homage to a writer known around the World, but it’s intended to create a space and place, which will inspire creative people today and tomorrow.

Architectural Students Gain Inspiration

Third-year students of architecture at the University of Westminster visited Rochester in 2024 to draw inspiration from Rochester’s diverse and historic architecture.

A number of students settled on understanding the design and structure of the Chalet, and to reflect on its future use.

1:20 model of the Dickens’ Writing Chalet made by 3rd Year students of architecture at the University of Westminster, 2024/25: Ayesha Shahzad, Ellie McSpadden and Marianthi Pitikari.

27 June 2025

The model of the Chalet is now on display at Eastgate House. It will be used in presentations as potential sponsors are sought to help restore the Chalet – and return it to being a cultural, educational and economic asset for Rochester and wider Medway – and beyond!