Pictures of Rochester

in the county of Kent

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About Rochester

Since before Roman times there has been a settlement here, at the ford across the River Medway. The walled town developed beside the bridge which carried Watling Street, the Dover Road and slight traces of the old walls remain. The town has an illustrious history and has a wealth of historical buildings. It also has connections with Charles Dickens who makes mention of two of the town's buildings in Pickwick Papers and Great Expectations. Dickens once lived at Gad's Hill, to the north west of Rochester.

The graceful spire of Rochester Cathedral rises high above the town, the building is mostly Norman and was begun in 1077. The beautiful carved wooden ceiling to the nave dates 15th-century and of the Cathedrals other treasures there is a magnificent white marble monument to the first Lord Henniker, who died in 1806, it is by John Bacon the Younger (1777-1859) and is in the Victorian Romantic style. Rochester is a splendid Cathedral, full of reminders of an ancient past and a constant source of fascination. Rochester Castle was built in the 12th-century. It has a 125ft high Keep and is a fine example of Norman military building.

This is a spacious town that has much to offer the visitor. It is a lively place where picturesque past and present sit comfortably side by side. Delightful river walks provide a constant reminder of Rochesters past links with river and sea. There are excellent shopping facilities, many pleasant inns and restaurants and spacious parks and gardens. Buildings to see include; The Guildhall, Restoration House, The Corn Exchange, Eastgate House Museum and Watts Charity Hospital. It is though, Rochester Castle and the rare beauty of it's great Cathedral that will linger long in your memory.

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Hotels & Accommodation in Rochester

	King Charles Hotel Brompton Road, Gillingham, Kent, England (1.4 miles, 2.3 km, direction E) The King Charles Hotel is a privately owned, modern, 98 bedroom hotel. It features a cosy, comfortable restaurant and first class conference and banqueting facilities. The Hotel is set in the hear... More info and book online.. Price from £44.00
	The Ship & Trades Maritime Way, Chatham Maritime, Chatham, Kent, England (1.9 miles, 3.1 km, direction NE) One of the jewels in Shepherd Neame's crown, The Ship & Trades is a spacious and stylish pub. With restaurant and accommodation overlooking one of the yacht basins. The upstairs level has marvellous... More info and book online.. Price from £66.00
	Holiday Inn Rochester-Chatham Maidstone Road, Chatham, Kent, England (2.7 miles, 4.3 km, direction S) The Holiday Inn Rochester-Chatham is a modern, well equipped hotel. Leisure Club includes indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, steam room and Gym. Restaurant Bar & Lounge. 24 hour room service. All bedroo... More info and book online.. Price from £90.00
	Bridgewood Manor - A QHotel Bridgewood Roundabout, Walderslade Woods, Chatham, Kent, England (3.1 miles, 5.0 km, direction S) Modern hotel, built around a classical courtyard with Gothic influences, which are reflected in the beautiful woodwork. Ideally located for exploring historic Rochester and visiting Chatham Maritime's... More info and book online.. Price from £50.00
	Inn On The Lake A2 Shorne, Shorne, Gravesend, Kent, England (4.3 miles, 7.0 km, direction W) Privately owned, modern 78 rooms hotel with a fine restaurant and first class conference and banqueting facilities. Ideal as base to explore South East England. The hotel has direct access from the ... More info and book online.. Price from £50.00

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Nearby travel help

Rochester Station	(0.2 miles, 0.3 km)
Strood Station	(0.8 miles, 1.2 km)
M2 Junction 2	(1.6 miles, 2.6 km, direction W)
M2 Junction 1	(2.8 miles, 4.5 km, direction W)
London City Airport	(20.8 miles, 33.5 km, direction W)
Rochester to London	(28.5 miles, 45.9 km, direction W)
London Gatwick Airport	(33.8 miles, 54.5 km, direction SW)