Charles Dickens' Writing Chalet

31/01/2026

A significant update in the history of Charles Dickens writing chalet pertaining to its placement at Cobham Hall / Park.

This blog has had a significant update following the discovery of new documents. It was first posted June 2024 “One of the most remarkable houses of literature” or a Victorian Prefab? “Miracle of S…

16/12/2025

06/12/2025

For one day only. Mini-Chalet on display at the ex Visitors Centre. Books for sale with an offer for a double purchase.

05/12/2025

Follow our journey & see how we go about restoring this beautiful piece of history!

“Remember, to the last, that while there is life, there is hope.” - CD

05/12/2025

Do not miss out the chance to look around Eastgate House, Rochester during the Christmas season & grab a show while you are there! A Christmas Carol tickets are still available for the 13th & 14th December!

02/12/2025

A self-guided Dickens tour of Rochester using ‘What3Words’ app/website. It can be used ‘in the field’ or in the armchair. Profits to go into a fund to promote the restoration and repurposing of Charles Dickens writing chalet. The booklet available in the cathedral shop, or by post. £9+pp. Email [email protected].

17/09/2025

Good day for mini-chalet - ‘met’ other models at the ‘Medway in Miniature’ exhibition. Day ended with the news that the National Lottery Heritage Fund has given the go ahead to proceed with a Stage 1 application for funding. Assistance to be given on to exploring arrangements for asset transfers.

17/09/2025

Mini-Chalet having a day out at the Medway in Miniature exhibition at Medway Archives Centre.

26/08/2025

Elizabeth Gaskell was a contributor to Dickens's periodical Household Words. Through his periodicals Dickens gave new writers the opportunity to get their work published. Elizabeth Gaskell was not the only woman who had their work published in his publications. Perhaps the restored Chalet could inspire future generations of writers and creators?

'You know that I can tell stories better than any other way of expressing myself' Elizabeth Gaskell, 1853

https://elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk/whats-on/

20/08/2025

Come along view the Chalet and hear of our hopes & plans for its restoration and repurposing.

19/08/2025

Mini Chalet was introduced to the Lord Mayor of Canterbury. Councillor Keji Moses. After opening the annual conference of the Dickens Fellowship the Mayor added her support for restoring the Chalet. In her address she recognised that “[Dickens’] stories continue to resonate because at their core, they remind us that transformation is possible, that kindness matters, and that the human spirit endures.”

The photographer was Lucinda Hawksley – great, great, great granddaughter of Charles Dickens - who offered all support she could to help restore and repurpose the Chalet.