Rochester’s Huguenot Museum is the only museum dedicated to the history of Huguenots in Britain. The museum’s exhibits provide an insight into the lives and legacy of the Huguenots, who are considered to be among the earliest refugees to seek sanctuary in England.
The Huguenots were French Protestants, primarily Calvinist Reformed Christians, during the 16th and 17th centuries. Facing persecution in Catholic France due to their religious beliefs, a significant number of Huguenots sought refuge in England. They were known for their industrious skills, particularly in crafts and commerce, leaving a lasting impact on the societies they integrated into.
What to see at the Huguenot Museum
The museum was established by The French Hospital, a charity set up in 1718 to provide support to Huguenots and much of the museum’s collection comes from the hospital’s collection of artefacts.
The museum has well-designed displays that do an excellent job of explaining the history of an early diaspora that many people may have heard of but know very little about.
Visiting the Huguenot Museum
The Huguenot Museum is in the centre of Rochester’s historic High Street in a building that is shared with the tourist information centre. From here, it is only a one-minute walk to Rochester Cathedral and most other points of interest in Rochester, including Rochester Castle, are no more than a five-minute walk away.
Admission costs £5.50, which is a little high for such a small museum, but you can get in for half price if you have a National Art Pass.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Friday and sometimes also opens on Saturdays.
Allow 1–2 hours for your visit to the museum.
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