Rochester & Medway, Kent

Medway's position on the main road to Europe, which brought Romans, royals and writers here down the centuries, also makes it the perfect place to visit. Whether you're interested in exploring the area's maritime or military connections, to see the place Charles Dickens loved and wrote about, to visit heritage and leisure attractions or major festivals and events, you'll find an area packed with things to see and do.

Find out more at the offical site for Rochester and Medway here

Historic Rochester

Step back in time with a visit to the cathedral city of Rochester and see the buildings that were an inspiration to Charles Dickens and featured in his works. The area's connections to the author can be discovered at the Guildhall Museum's Dickens Discovery Rooms where authentic items are on display and a multi-lingual touchscreen highlights the sites of Dickens interest in and around the area. In the audio-theatre a short film on the author's life, times and works is shown continuously throughout the day. Dickens' connections can also be explored on foot on a free walking tour with a local guide (on selected days throughout the summer) or by purchasing a self-guided trail with map 'In Dickens' Footsteps' from the Visitor Information Centre for 50p.

There are many other attractions to visit in Rochester such as England's second oldest cathedral, Rochester Castle with the tallest Norman keep in the country, Restoration House (the home of Miss Havisham in Great Expectations) and The Six Poor Travellers House, immortalised by Dickens in one of his short stories for Christmas.

The best way to explore Medway is on the river aboard the Kingswear Castle Paddle Steamer. Regular afternoon and full sightseeing cruises operate during the summer months between Rochester and The Historic Dockyard Chatham.

Rochester's Unique High Street

Rochester High Street is unique for the absence of the usual brand names. Here you will find family-owned businesses selling antiques, paintings, handbags and accessories, plus the country's largest second-hand bookshop 'Baggins'. When looking for something to eat and drink, take a pick from the superb choice of independent bistros and restaurants, cafes and tearooms and local pubs offering real ales and value for money lunches.