Esplanade Gardens is a large, linear open space next to the River Medway and near Rochester High Street.
It has:
- a formal garden
- a play area
- an outdoor gym
- an informal grass area
- spectacular views of the river.
Our project aims to improve visitor facilities in the gardens.
It's funded by contributions for a nearby development. We will receive funding in stages over the next few years.
Currently we are planning to:
- completely refurbish the play area
- resurface pathways that are in poor condition
- improve the plant beds and seating areas
- introduce new and updated signage.
Public consultation
We ran a consultation on improvements to be made to the play area.
Read the esplanade play area consultation slides.
The consultation closed at 11.59pm on Sunday 7 December 2025.
Drop-in events
We held drop-in events during November to find out more about our planned improvements to the Esplanade Garden play area in person.
Previous consultations
In 2022 we held a public consultation to get feedback from visitors on how the gardens are currently used and what improvements people would like to see to help us in our decision-making.
Residents and visitors who completed the 2022 survey will be kept up to date with the project and future proposals.
For further information and updates, contact the Greenspace Development team at yournew@medway.gov.uk.
View of Rochester Castle from the formal gardens.