Published: Tuesday, 7th March 2023

Do you touch wood for luck, avoid walking under ladders, have a lucky gnome in your garden or even a green man?

Explore the world of fairies and folklore at Medway’s magnificent Grade I listed townhouse, Eastgate House.

The new temporary exhibition, which opens on Saturday, 11 March, reflects many of the customs, stories and beliefs which would have been passed down through generations at Rochester’s Tudor mansion. The exhibition will include hand-made fairy houses which have been created by learners at Medway Adult Education.

There is also a free Fairy Doors trail for children to take part in too.

Visitors will be able to view the exhibition until Sunday, 28 May. Eastgate House is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm, last admission 4.15pm. Admission fees apply.

There will also be two special events taking place to celebrate the exhibition.

Children of all ages can take a trip down the rabbit hole at Eastgate House this Easter with the return of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Young visitors can enjoy a magical hour of interactive theatre on Saturday, 1 and 15 April and on Sunday, 16 April. Performances will take place throughout the day. Tickets cost £12 for adults and £6 for children. To book, visit Eastgate House or phone 01634 332700.

Visitors can enjoy a deliciously sinister selection of tales from the original Grimms stories at Eastgate House on Saturday, 13 May. Really Grimm Fairy Tales will be performed at 2pm and 3.30pm, and tickets are on sale now at Eastgate House. Tickets cost £12 and the performance is suitable for children aged 12 and above.

Fascinating information about the origins of fairy tales

Cllr Howard Doe, Deputy Leader of Medway Council and Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said: “Eastgate House is one of the most distinctive buildings in Rochester and I would encourage residents to visit and find out more about the heritage of this impressive townhouse. The fairies and folklore exhibition will include fascinating information about the origins of fairy tales, hopping in Kent and tales about the house itself which are related to folklore. I am also pleased that we will be hosting some not-to-be-missed performances of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Really Grimm Fairy Tales - Eastgate House certainly provides the perfect backdrop.”

Find out more about Eastgate House

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