Pictures of Rochester

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.