Rochester Carol Concert
- Friday 5 December / 7.30pm
- Rochester Cathedral, ME1 1SX
- Tier 1 ticket price: £20
- Tier 2 ticket price: £15
Sing, support and save lives this Christmas
Join us for a magical evening at Rochester Cathedral for our annual Carol Concert on Friday 5 December, sponsored by GW Highways.
Experience the spirit of Christmas in the stunning Rochester Cathedral with a night of candlelight, choral harmony, and heartfelt reflections. From stirring music to powerful stories from our crew, every moment helps raise vital funds to bring lifesaving care to families across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex – when they need it most.
- Join in and sing traditional carols performed by the magnificent Rochester Cathedral Choir
- Matthew English, performing an inspiring festive favourites on violin
- A special moment of candlelit reflection – filling the cathedral with light and unity
- Heartfelt reflections from our crew, offering a glimpse into their lifesaving work
- Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the second oldest cathedral in England
- Treat yourself to some yummy mince pies and non-alcoholic mulled wine, available for donation
- Christmas cards and calendars on sale to support our lifesaving work
This Christmas, the gift of life is in your hands
Life can change in a heartbeat. Every ticket you buy helps us save lives when every second counts.
Performers
Matthew English’s musical journey began after a chance meeting with The Osmonds. He caught the attention of Jimmy Osmond while watching the band perform in 2012 and was gifted his first violin by Merrill and Justin Osmond at a charity gala in Leeds. Since then Matthew has been invited to play at a wide variety of events, festivals, corporate functions and venues nationwide. As well as being an accomplished musician he is a motivational speaker, campaigner and fundraiser. In January 2025, Matthew received a ‘One Big Thank You’ on the BBC’s One Show in recognition of the years playing for charities and in care homes.
Rochester Cathedral Choir frequently performs in concert, on Radio broadcasts and on recordings, as well as touring to the UK and abroad. The Choir is directed by the Director of Music Adrian Bawtree. Every year they bring energy and enthusiasm through their festive performance at our Carol Concert.
Matthew English
Rochester Cathedral Choir
Event sponsored by:
Every ticket you buy helps us reach more cardiac arrest patients. Every moment you share with us brings hope to families across our region. This Christmas, the gift of life is in your hands.
FAQs
What time do doors open?
Doors will open at 7pm, please plan your arrival accordingly, as entry will not be permitted before this time
What time does the concert start and finish?
The concert will start at 7:30pm and is expected to finish at 8.45pm.
Where is the venue located?
The concert will take place at Rochester Cathedral, The Precinct, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1SX
By Car
Rochester is well connected by road. From M20, exit junction 6 and take the A229 to Rochester. From the A2, take the “Rochester” exit just before the M2 starts.
By Train
Rochester Station is just a few minutes walk from the Cathedral. It has excellent connections with locations across Kent and trains run regularly throughout the day.
They run direct to the coast including Whitstable, Margate, Ramsgate, and Broadstairs. There are also trains direct to Canterbury and Ebbsfleet.
The Medway Valley Line is only a short walk across the river giving access to Maidstone and Tonbridge.
By Bus
A Arriva network of buses serve the local area covering Medway and beyond. Find out more about local bus services on this page.
Is there parking available?
There is no Cathedral Car Park, but there is plenty of council car parking available within a few minutes walk of Rochester Cathedral.
Please note: that the Christmas market will be running on the event date, car parks may be busier than usual.
Are tickets required?
We do not send out physical tickets, your ticket confirmation when booking your tickets will act as your tickets on the night.
Can I bring children?
Yes! Our carol concerts are family friendly. Please ensure they are always supervised.
Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs or those with mobility needs?
The Cathedral is a medieval building, so there are limitations, but efforts are made to make it accessible. Entry to the precincts is via the North Door, which is located at the side of the Cathedral, there is a slight ramp/slope and automatic door.
If you require accessibility seating and have not already informed us please contact events@aakss.org.uk. To those that ticked yes when booking, we will be in touch to discuss your requirements.
Will there be refreshments?
Yes, we will be serving non-alcoholic mulled wine and hot drinks on the night, available for a donation. We’ll also have mince pies available, kindly donated by local Rochester bakery, Lenny’s
Is there assigned seating?
Our seating acts as a first come first serve, within the tier you’ve purchased your tickets. Those that have requested accessibility seating will be allocated seats.
What should I wear?
There’s no formal dress code, but we suggest dressing warmly and comfortably. Festive attire is always welcome!
Can I take photos or videos?
Please refrain from any photography or recording during the performance.
Can I sing along?
Absolutely! Audience participation is encouraged on some of the classic carols which will be allocated in our concert programme— lyrics will also be provided.
What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals may be asked to wait for a suitable break in the performance before being seated, to avoid disruption.
Who do I contact for further information?
Please reach out to our friendly events team events@aakss.org.uk or give us a call on 01634 471900
