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Check-in
16Mar2026Select date
Check-out
17Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Main Road, Cooling, Rochester (Kent), United Kingdom
-
Near RSPB Northward Hill
Perfect
9.1
9.2
/10
4.8
4.7
/5

Accommodations

The Horseshoe & Castle offers five distinct accommodations: one double room, three king suites, and a self-contained stable cottage. The stable cottage includes a double bedroom, living room with sofa bed, kitchen area, and bathroom facilities, accommodating up to five guests. Each room is equipped with flat screen televisions and tea and coffee making facilities.

Dining

This hotel hosts a Five Course Gourmet evening, showcasing a fun filled menu with a twist on classic World War dishes. Afternoon tea packages are available for groups of 2-25, featuring a selection of sweet and savory bites. Additionally, the hotel's special events include an annual Oktoberfest and St Patrick's Party with live music and themed cuisine.

Filming Location

The Horseshoe & Castle is known for its history in film, having been a location for 'The Broken Arrow' directed by Chris Simmons. This aspect adds a unique appeal for movie enthusiasts, enabling guests to immerse themselves in a piece of cinematic history. Curious visitors may spot original filming locations during their stay.

Events and Weddings

The hotel offers the option to host wedding receptions, including a full canopy extension linked to the restaurant. This flexible venue provides a picturesque backdrop for special events and celebrations. In addition to weddings, the venue accommodates various other gatherings, ensuring diverse hosting capabilities.

Location

Located in Cooling, Kent, the hotel is nestled between two RSPB Nature Reserves and is surrounded by nautical history, including the nearby Chatham Dockyard. The area has ties to Charles Dickens, enriching the local historical landscape. Guests can easily explore the charm of Cooling, steeped in literary significance.

Highlights

Accommodations: Three king suites & stable cottage

Dining: Five Course Gourmet evening & Oktoberfest

Events: Flexible wedding reception venue

Location: Surrounded by RSPB Nature Reserves

Must-do experiences

  • Discover Rochester Castle and climb its towers for stunning views.
  • Savor the local specialty, Rochester pie, at The Cornershop Café.
  • Visit the Guildhall Museum for fascinating exhibits on local history.
  • Stroll through the historic Rochester High Street on weekends for markets.
  • Catch a performance at the historic Rochester Theatre Royal for culture.
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Select your room type

The Horseshoe & Castle offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
One-Bedroom House
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
King Room
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Private External Bathroom
2 persons
110 sq. feet 
Shower
Heating
King Suite
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The Horseshoe & Castle offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Children

  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At The Horseshoe & Castle, delightful culinary experiences await with a charming selection of British and seafood dishes. The inviting atmosphere is perfect for families and offers a variety of meal options to accommodate diverse dietary preferences.
The Horseshoe & Castle Rochester  Restaurant photo

The Horseshoe & Castle

British and Seafood
Ambiance
Family-friendly and traditional, featuring a cozy and welcoming setting for guests of all ages.
Key Offerings
Indulge in popular pub favorites, signature burgers, and a five-course gourmet meal available post-match. The diverse men's offerings include Halal, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Reservation
Recommended during busy hours.
Lunch: Monday to Thursday 12:00 - 14:30; Dinner: Monday to Thursday 18:00 - 20:30, Friday and Saturday 12:00 - 20:30, Sunday 12:00 - 17:00.

The Horseshoe & Castle Location

Main Road, Cooling, Rochester (Kent), United Kingdom
Map view
Main Road, Cooling, Rochester (Kent), United Kingdom
Nearby
Church
St James' Church Cooling
1300 ft
Restaurants
The Horseshoe & Castle
100 ft
Main Road Rochester
Explore Rochester (Kent)
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Cooling Castle
Cooling Castle
8 minutes' walk
A historic castle offering scenic grounds and rich heritage, perfect for a leisurely stroll and photography.
Northward Hill Nature Reserve
Northward Hill Nature Reserve
15 minutes' walk
A tranquil nature reserve home to diverse wildlife and scenic walking trails, ideal for bird watching enthusiasts.
U-475 Black Widow Russian Submarine
U-475 Black Widow Russian Submarine
10-minute drive
A unique naval exhibit, guests can tour this historic submariner experience, showcasing Cold War history.
Esplanade Gardens
Esplanade Gardens
30 minutes' walk
Beautiful coastal gardens featuring vibrant flowers and a stunning view of the water, great for family picnics.
Nature Walks
15 minutes' walk
Strolling through nature reserves offers tranquility; guided tours often available for informative experiences.
Biking Trails
10-minute drive
Scenic biking routes around Cooling. Rentals accessible nearby, suitable for all skill levels, ensuring fun outdoors.
Relaxing Spa Treatments
10-minute drive
Spa services nearby provide a relaxing retreat, offering massages and wellness treatments to rejuvenate guests.
Visit to the Historic Dockyard
15-minute drive
Exciting maritime history through interactive exhibits and historic ships; great for families and history buffs alike.
The Horseshoe & Castle
The Horseshoe & Castle
1 minute's walk
Local pub serving hearty meals and local ales, ideal for a cozy meal in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Pie Factory
10-minute drive
A casual eatery famous for its delicious homemade pies, with vegetarian options available; reservations advised.
The Spice Merchant
12-minute drive
Authentic Indian cuisine in a warm setting, offering delectable curries and tandoori dishes for spice lovers.
The River Café
15-minute drive
Riverside dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients and delightful views. Reservations recommended for dinner.
Medway Theatre
15-minute drive
A vibrant venue hosting plays, concerts, and comedy shows; a cultural hub for great live performances.
Rochester Castle Gardens
10-minute drive
Beautiful gardens often hosting family-friendly events and concerts throughout the summer, providing relaxing outdoor fun.
The Prince of Wales
10-minute drive
An energetic pub with regular live music, ideal for a lively night out with friends and a vibrant atmosphere.
Chatham Dockyard Events
15-minute drive
Check the calendar for seasonal events like fairs and markets offering entertainment for all ages, perfect for family outings.
Getting around
City Centre
Rochester (Kent)12 min  ·  4.8 mi
Airports
London City Airport (LCY)82 min  ·  33.8 mi
London Southend Airport (SEN)109 min  ·  44.9 mi
Train
Higham Train Station9 min  ·  3.5 mi
Strood Kent Train Station11 min  ·  4.4 mi
Bus
Bus stop29 min  ·  1.5 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 13:00-21:30
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel The Horseshoe & Castle guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
17

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Horseshoe & Castle from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 71 verified reviews
9.0/10
Perfect
95%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.1/10
Cleanliness
9.4/10
Comfort
9.3/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
9.1/10
Paid Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Staff
9.6/10
Value for money
8.4/10
Guest reviews
based on 201 reviews
9.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About The Horseshoe & Castle
Is it possible to walk from Cooling Castle to The Horseshoe & Castle? Are there any walking paths or streetlights along the way?
20 April 2024
The Horseshoe & Castle is approximately 600 meters from Cooling Castle Barn. However, the area is quite rural with no designated footpaths or lighting. Most guests prefer driving to the venue and bringing comfortable shoes or a torch for their return walk.
Is there a secure place to keep bicycles overnight at The Horseshoe & Castle?
15 March 2024
There is a space available for storing bicycles overnight. Guests are advised to ensure adequate security for their bikes during their stay.
Are there facilities like a microwave and refrigerator available for guests to use?
10 April 2024
Yes, the self-contained cottage features both a microwave and an oven, available for guest use during the stay.
Can early check-ins be accommodated at The Horseshoe & Castle?
5 May 2024
Early check-ins may be possible from 12:00 PM, depending on the availability of rooms after cleaning. It is not guaranteed, so it's best to check in advance.
Is food available on Sunday evenings at your venue?
3 March 2024
On Sundays, the kitchen closes at 5:00 PM; however, meals can be pre-ordered for single or double travelers. Arrangements can also be made for larger groups.
Is there availability for ground floor accommodations or a lift at The Horseshoe & Castle?
11 May 2024
A self-contained cottage is available, which accommodates four people and includes both ground floor and upstairs areas. However, it may not be available for specific dates.
What is the latest time allowed for check-out?
22 April 2024
Check-out times can be extended based on room bookings for the day. A late check-out incurs an additional fee of £25 per hour, subject to availability.
Is the kitchen in the cottage exclusively for guests who book it?
8 June 2024
Yes, the kitchen in the self-contained cottage is exclusively available for the guests who have booked it.
Are there options for twin-bedded rooms at The Horseshoe & Castle?
18 March 2024
Unfortunately, twin-bedded rooms are not available; all rooms are configured as doubles or kings.
What dining options are available for guests with dietary restrictions?
9 May 2024
The menu offers a variety of options, including vegetarian and other dietary selections. Rest assured, breakfast and other meals can accommodate specific dietary needs when informed in advance.
Is the self-contained cottage suitable for guests traveling with dogs?
1 June 2024
Yes, the self-contained garden cottage is dog-friendly and accommodates pets, making it a perfect choice for families traveling with their furry companions.

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