Reculver Towers and Roman Fort Review: History & Visitor Guide

Reculver Towers and Roman Fort was a quick visit after a trip to Herne Bay. While there may not be a whole lot to look at, I still think it’s worth a quick visit. The history (which you can read below) is far more interesting. And I at least managed to take some nice photos too.

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My Photos of Reculver Towers and Roman Fort

These photos are free to use, all I ask is you link back to this page as credit.

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History of Reculver Towers and Roman Fort

Reculver, perched on the north Kent coast near Herne Bay, has been a strategic site for nearly two millennia. The Romans established a fort here in the late 2nd century AD, known as Regulbium, to guard the northern entrance of the Wantsum Channel, which once separated the Isle of Thanet from the mainland. The fort was part of the Saxon Shore defence system, built to repel seaborne raids.

After the Roman withdrawal, the site was repurposed in 669 AD as an Anglo-Saxon monastery, with a church constructed within the fort’s walls. This later became the parish church of St Mary’s, remodelled in the 12th century with the addition of its iconic twin towers. Though much of the church was demolished in 1805, the towers were preserved as a navigation aid for ships and remain a striking coastal landmark.

Today, Reculver offers a rare fusion of Roman military architecture, medieval ecclesiastical heritage, and natural beauty, with much of the original site lost to coastal erosion.

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10 Interesting Facts About Reculver Towers and Roman Fort

1. The Roman fort was nearly square, measuring 180 x 175 metres, with rounded corners and four gates.
2. Reculver was once surrounded by the Wantsum Channel, a sea passage up to 3 miles wide.
3. The site was one of the earliest Saxon Shore forts, built to defend against Saxon raids.
4. The twin towers were added in the 12th century and now serve as a navigation marker for ships.
5. The church was partly demolished in 1805, but the towers were saved by Trinity House, the lighthouse authority.
6. The fort’s walls were originally faced with greensand blocks, now mostly eroded.
7. The site includes remains of Roman barracks, bathhouses, and a headquarters building, though none survive above ground.
8. The name “Reculver” evolved from the Roman Regulbium, meaning “great headland”.
9. The site is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, protected for its archaeological significance.
10. Reculver has inspired artists and writers, including Samuel and Nathaniel Buck, who engraved it in the 18th century.

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Things to See and Do at Reculver Towers and Roman Fort

• Explore the Twin Towers
  Admire the 12th-century towers of St Mary’s Church, preserved as a dramatic coastal landmark.
• Walk the Roman Fort Perimeter
  Trace the outline of the Roman walls and gates, with interpretive signage marking key features.
• Visit Reculver Country Park
  Enjoy wildflower meadows, birdwatching, and cliff-top views in this protected nature reserve.
• Follow the Saxon Shore Trail
  Take a scenic walk along the coastline between Reculver and Herne Bay, rich in history and sea views.
• Cycle the Oyster Bay Trail
  Ride through the park and along the coast on a designated multi-user route.
• Join a Tower Open Day
  On select dates, climb inside the north tower for panoramic views and historical insights.
• Spot Coastal Wildlife
  Look out for nesting seabirds, butterflies, and marine life along the shore and cliffs.
• Visit the Local History Museum
  Learn more about Reculver’s Roman, Saxon, and medieval past through engaging exhibits.
• Enjoy a Picnic or Café Stop
  Relax at the nearby café or bring your own lunch to enjoy with sea views.
• Combine with Nearby Sites
  Pair your visit with Richborough Roman Fort, St Augustine’s Abbey, or Walmer Castle for a full Kent heritage day.

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Practical Information for Visiting Reculver Towers and Roman Fort

• Location: Reculver Lane, Reculver, Kent CT6 6SS
• Opening Times:
  • Grounds: Open access, daylight hours year-round
  • Tower interior: Select dates, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm (check English Heritage schedule)
• Entry Fees: Free
• Recommended Visit Duration: 45–90 minutes
  (Allow extra time for walks or tower access)
• Tickets: No booking required for general access
• Parking:
  • Charged public car park next to site (not managed by English Heritage)
• Accessibility:
  • Grounds accessible via sloped path; tower interior has limited access
• Dogs:
  • Welcome on leads
• Food & Drink:
  • Café and toilets available at Reculver Country Park (seasonal)
• Toilets:
  • Public toilets at Country Park
• Transport:
  • Car: Off A299 near Herne Bay
  • Bus: Stagecoach services from Herne Bay and Canterbury
  • Train: Herne Bay Station (4 mi)
• Nearby: Reculver Country Park, Herne Bay Pier, Richborough Roman Fort, Minnis Bay

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See my guide for more fun things to do in Kent

Guides on towns in Kent

• Margate
• Folkestone
• Whitstable
• Faversham
• Deal
• Broadstairs
• Dungeness
• Edenbridge
• Best Sandy Beaches in Kent
• Best Coastal Towns In Kent