discover

Rochester Chatham Gillingham

Medway

2014/15

www.visitmedway.org

Events …24 May ‘Swing Back In Time’ at the Royal Engineers Museum

2 -3 Aug Kitchener’s Army Weekend

23 Aug Film Screening: ‘Oh What a Lovely War’

13 - 14 Dec War Time Christmas Weekend

1 May – 12 Sep Time Bleeds 30 Oct–27 Mar The Unseen Project: The Red Forest

www.re-museum.co.uk – 01634 822839

The Royal Engineers MuseumUnlimited entry for 12 Months*

New for 2014: Sappers’ Workshop - indoor children’s play area

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Medway is one of the south-east’s mostaspiring and developing destinations,marrying its celebrated heritage with arapidly emerging continental-stylecultural scene.

It is ideally located, close to London and within easy reach ofthe channel ports. Medway takes its name from themagnificent river that flows through it and comprises ofRochester, Chatham, Gillingham, Rainham and Strood.

Individually, the towns have their own place in history andunique identity – in particular Rochester with its iconic castleand cathedral and connections to Charles Dickens, andChatham with its maritime and military heritage and defences.Together, they provide a diverse and exciting shared storyvisitor experience.

The area is the south-east’s festival and events capital –hosting more than 30 days of free festivals and events eachyear. From bustling street festivals, open air concerts andtheatre performances to major international sporting events atMedway Park.

Medway’s extensive regeneration programme has changedthe area dramatically over the years. This is most evident atChatham Waterfront with the restoration of Sun Pier nowallowing regular leisure sailings, events and festivals to takeplace and Chatham Maritime with its attractive marina,shopping and leisure development.

As you browse through the pages of this guide, you will beamazed how much there is to see and do whatever your age oryour passion. We look forward to welcoming you to Medwayand helping you discover this maritime city in the making.

Councillor Howard DoePortfolio Holder for Housing and Community Services

Disclaimer: Inclusion of establishments in this publicationdoes not imply recommendation or approval. While everycare has been taken to ensure accuracy of the information,the publishers, their agents or employees cannot acceptresponsibility for any errors, omissions or subsequentamendments.

contentsWelcome to Medway

‘Swing Back In Time’ at the Royal Engineers Museum

Kitchener’s Army Weekend

Film Screening: ‘Oh What a Lovely War’

1 War Time Christmas Weekend

Time Bleeds 3 The Unseen Project: The Red Forest

Getting around 4Transport links and travel information for Medway

Maps of the area 5A quick visual guide of where the attractions can be found

Places to visit 6The must-see sights in Medway

A bit of inspiration 8A couple of ideas on how to make the most of your time

Over 1,000 years of history in one day 10Explore Medway on our tourism open top bus

10 reasons to visit 12A diverse and exciting destination

Retail therapy 13An eclectic mix of shopping opportunities

Food for thought 13Something on offer for all tastes

What’s new? 15There’s always an new attraction worth checking out

Dickensian Medway 17Discover the many links we have with the famous author

Festivals and events 18Over 30 days of free festivals - here are some highlights

Get active 21A wide range of sporting activities are here to enjoy

A breath of fresh air 23Wide open green spaces and riverside walks

Defence of the realm 24Medway’s rich heritage at the frontline of defence

Frontline Medway 25How we are remembering the outbreak of the Great War

From towers to tunnels 26Ancient castles, impressive houses and secretive tunnels

Meander on the Medway 28Making the most of the Medway estuary

Family fun 31Explore the child in all of us

Arts and culture 32Something to stimulate, inspire and entertain

Where to stay 34A selection of the many places to rest your head

Written and designed by Medway Council’s Tourism andCommunications Departments. Printed by The Marstan Press Limited, Kent.

© Medway Council 2014 Reference: G8698/2014

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A visit to Medway couldn’t be easier. We’re just 30 miles from London and 40 milesfrom the Channel ports and Eurotunnel.

Medway Visitor Information CentreMedway Visitor Information Centre in Rochester is the ideal first port of call fora warm welcome for visitors to the area. The centre is located in the heart ofhistoric Rochester, it is wheelchair accessible and offers a full touristinformation service, with gift shop, café with seating areas, art gallery andpublic conveniences.

Call into the centre to pick-up information on local attractions, books,postcards and souvenirs to take home. If you are looking for a place to stay, thecentre can provide advice and assistance with finding accommodation to suityour requirements and budget.

Medway Visitor Information Centre95 High Street, Rochester, Kent ME1 1LX

Phone: 01634 338141Fax: 01634 847891

Email: visitor.centre@medway.gov.ukWeb: www.visitmedway.org

By roadWhen travelling by road, there is easy accessfrom London and the Kent coast on the M2/A2and M20 motorways, linking with the M25. Thereare direct links from the A2/M2 toRochester/Chatham/Gillingham via the A289Medway Tunnel. If travelling by car, to find outabout town centre parking visitwww.medway.gov.ukRegular National Express coaches run fromLondon Victoria to the area. For moreinformation visit www.nationalexpress.com

By railMedway has five mainline rail stations – Strood,Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham and Rainham.All have frequent services from London mainlinestations. The high-speed train from St. Pancrastakes just 35 minutes to reach Medway. Railtravel from Europe to Medway is faster and easierby Eurostar. To plan your rail journeys phone08457 848950 or visit www.nationalrail.co.ukEbbsfleet International Station is only 20 minutesfrom Medway. For more information visitwww.eurostar.com

Public transport (buses)A majority of bus services in Medway areprovided by Arriva, although some services areprovided by ASD coaches, Nu-Venture andChalkwell. For details on bus routes throughoutMedway and timetables visitwww.medway.gov.uk/buses

Visit historic Rochester and Chatham by bus with ArrivaVisit historic Rochester, The Historic DockyardChatham and Dickens World with Arriva’s140/141 service that runs every 10 minutes,Monday to Saturday. The Arriva Inner MedwayTicket gives you flexibility to hop on and off atvarious places of interest along the route and ifyou’re staying longer, you can save bypurchasing a weekly ticket. Tickets can be purchased from the bus driver.

Explore Medway aboard an open top busFrom 26 July to 7 September 2014 the only opentop bus in Kent will offer a daily service to take youon a fascinating historical journey back in timevisiting castles, houses of history, maritime heritageall while listening to our pre-recorded commentary.For further details see pages 10 and 11.

For information on all public transport inMedway visit www.medway.gov.uk/buses orvisit the Travel Information Centre at ChathamWaterfront Bus Station.

Gettingaround

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Place of interest (detailed list below)

Open top bus route andstopping pointsChatham bus stationNational rail station

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Rochester Castle

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Medway Park

Ranscombe Farm Reserve

Diggerland

Upnor Castle

Capstone Farm Country Park

Riverside Country Park andBerengrave Nature Reserve

Places of interestEastgate House

Restoration House

The Central Theatre

Old Brook Pumping Station

The Brook Theatre

Fort Amherst

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Dickens World

Royal Engineers Museum, Library and Archive

The Great Lines Heritage Park

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Where are we? These maps will give you a quick guide to Medwayand the many places of interest you can visit. For

more detailed maps and routes please visit theMedway Map Service page on www.medway.gov.uk

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Why not explore Medway aboard our open top bus?

The Historic Dockyard ChathamThe Historic Dockyard Chatham is one ofBritain’s leading maritime heritagedestinations with historic warships, galleries,touring exhibitions and guided tours.

Dock Road, Chatham ME4 4TZPhone: 01634 823800Email: info@chdt.org.ukWeb: www.thedockyard.co.uk

Six Poor Travellers HouseA Tudor-founded charity housethat provided board and lodgingsfor six poor travellers, right upuntil the Second World War.

High Street, Rochester, ME1 1LXPhone: 01634 845609Web: www.visitmedway.org

Fort AmherstThe fort was built in 1756 to protect the

Royal Dockyard at Chatham from landwardattack. It houses a fascinating network of

tunnels and underground chambers.

Dock Road, Chatham, ME4 4UBPhone: 01634 847747

Email: info@fortamherst.comWeb: www.fortamherst.com

Placesto Rochester CathedralFounded in 604AD, RochesterCathedral is the second oldest inEngland. It’s been a place ofpilgrimage and worship for over1400 years.

The Precinct, Rochester, ME1 1SXPhone: 01634 843366Email: visits@rochestercathedral.org Web: www.rochestercathedral.org

Restoration HouseA city mansion, stayed in by CharlesII on the eve of his restoration andthe inspiration for Satis House inCharles Dickens’ Great Expectations.

Crow Lane, Rochester, ME1 1ERPhone: 01634 848520Email: robert.tucker@

restorationhouse.co.ukWeb: www.restorationhouse.co.uk

Upnor CastleUpnor Castle was built in 1559 todefend the Navy warships ofQueen Elizabeth I and the RoyalDockyard at Chatham.

High Street, Upper Upnor,Rochester, ME2 4XGPhone: 01634 718742Email: upnor.castle@

medway.gov.ukWeb: www.visitmedway.org

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Operates 26 July to 7 September. See pages 10 and 11 for more information

Dickens World – The Grand TourStep back in time for a 90-minuteguided journey of discovery through the Victorian England loved by Charles Dickens.

Leviathan Way, Chatham Maritime, ME4 4LLPhone: 0844 858 6656Email: enquiries@dickensworld.co.ukWeb: www.dickensworld.co.uk

Guildhall MuseumThe Guildhall, built in 1687, is one of thefinest 17th century civic buildings inKent and is now home to more than250,000 years of Medway’s history.

High Street, Rochester, ME1 1PYPhone: 01634 332900Email: guildhall.museum@medway.gov.ukWeb: www.visitmedway.org

Rochester CastleRochester Castle is one of bestpreserved and finest examplesof Norman architecture inEngland. Spectacular views ofthe area can be enjoyed fromthe castle’s keep.

Castle Hill, Rochester, ME1 1SWPhone: 01634 332901Email: rochester.castle@

medway.gov.uk Web: www.visitmedway.org

Royal Engineers Museum,Library and ArchiveThe museum provides afascinating insight intoBritain’s explosive militaryhistory and the part oursoldier engineers have played in this.

Prince Arthur Road,Gillingham, ME4 4UGPhone: 01634 822839Web: www.re-museum.co.uk

Temple ManorA 13th century housebelonging to the KnightsTemplars - a religious order ofKnights. It provided lodgings,food and fresh horses for theKnights travelling to and from the crusades.

Knight Road, Strood ME2 2AHPhone: 01634 332901Web: www.visitmedway.org

The Old Brook Pumping StationListed as an ancient monument, thepumping station was incorporated intoChatham’s main drainage system from1929 until 1980.

Solomons Road, Chatham, ME4 4LAPhone: 01634 362847Web: www.oldbrookpumping.co.uk

visitWhatever your interest, Medwayis full of heritage and fun familyattractions to visit. Further detailsabout the attractions featured onthese pages can be found onwww.visitmedway.org

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You can follow in the footstepsof Dickens and see the placesthat inspired the author; enjoyMedway’s rich maritime andmilitary heritage and use theExplore Medway Open TopBus to travel through a 1,000years of history in one day!

On these pages you will find inspiringitineraries to help you make the mostof your visit to Medway.

inspirOne day in Medway Start your day visiting the two towns of Chatham and Gillingham

that have strong military and maritime connections.

l Morning: Relive the fascinating story of Britain’s military engineers through the

centuries at the Royal Engineers Museum. Get an insight into the life of the modern-

day sapper through the most recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, discover the

art of the bridge builder and view the many exciting galleries and exhibits.

Within a short distance of the Royal Engineers Museum is Fort Amherst. Built in

1756 to protect the naval dockyard from landward attack, the fort is an ideal

place to stop for a rest at its terraced café, offering spectacular views across the

River Medway. The fort houses a fascinating network of underground chambers

and tunnels, shelters, barracks, gun batteries and guardrooms. Daily tours of the

tunnels are available throughout the year.

l Lunch option: Take a light lunch at the fort’s own onsite café or venture onto

The Historic Dockyard’s Wheelwrights licensed restaurant.

l Afternoon: Discover more than 400 years of maritime history at The Historic

Dockyard Chatham, one of Britain’s leading maritime heritage destinations.

A fantastic range of galleries and attractions to explore, and a fabulous

programme of touring exhibitions at No.1 Smithery make this a must-see

attraction. Learn the skills of rope making on the Victorian Ropery Tour and be

gripped by stories of life aboard three historic warships and visit the Hearts of

Oak Gallery where new technology and interpretation techniques bring the

story of people, ships and processes to life in a vivid, engaging and exciting way.

l Optional extra: Why not take the wet and wild rapid Jetstream boat tour and

view our maritime heritage sites from the river including forts and wildlife along

the estuary. Tours operate from Sun Pier, Chatham on weekends only. For

details visit www.jetstreamtours.com

A bit of

Three days in Medway DAY ONEl Morning: Start your day by following in the footsteps of Dickens on a walking

tour with a local guide from either Footsteps in Time (costumed guided walks)

fourth Sunday each month (February to November) or the City of Rochester

Society on selected days at 2.15pm (April to October). Tours last about 90-minutes and are very informative on the subject of Dickens and his works.

l Lunch option: There are so many places to eat and drink in Rochester. You will find

an excellent selection of restaurants offering cuisines from around the world, cafés,

tearooms and pubs offering daily lunchtime specials.l Afternoon: Spend the afternoon visiting the many heritage visitor attractions in

Rochester. These include the Guildhall Museum, which is free to visit and home

to over 2,000 years of Medway history, Restoration House and Gardens, thehome of Miss Havisham and Estella in Great Expectations, and Six Poor Travellers

House, immortalised by Dickens’ Christmas short story The Seven Poor Travellers.

Further along the road is Eastgate House, a delightful Grade I listed Elizabethan

House where Dickens’ chalet can be seen in the gardens.DAY TWOl Why not discover Medway’s fascinating military and maritime connections.

See the itinerary for one day in Medway.DAY THREEl Morning: Catch the Explore Medway open top bus from the coach bays at the

back of the Medway Visitor Information Centre in Rochester. Tours for 2014 will

take place daily from 26 July to 7 September 2014, with first bus departing at

10am. Buy your all-day hop on/off ticket from the bus driver and enjoy theonboard Brian Blessed commentary about the places you can see and visit

en-route and get on and off at any stop that takes your fancy.l Lunch option: Hop off the bus at Chatham Maritime (Dickens World stop) where

you will find several restaurants or the Ship & Trades pub where you can enjoy

lunch on the waterside edge overlooking an attractive marina. l Afternoon: If you fancy some retail therapy, pop in to Dockside Outlet Centre

and browse around the many major leading brand stores offering greatdiscounts. Alternately, you many fancy watching the latest film at the Odeon

Cinema at Chatham Maritime (www.odeon.co.uk/chatham)

iration

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Tours start from the coach bays atthe back of the Medway VisitorInformation Centre in Rochester.However, if getting to this startingpoint is a problem, don’t worry asyou can join the bus at any of thestops featured en-route, simply buyyour all-day, hop on/off ticket fromthe bus driver. Costumed characterswill welcome you onboard to enjoythe pre-recorded commentary fromBrian Blessed about places you cansee and visit.

Take advantage of discounted entryat local attractions on production ofa valid bus ticket at the admissionsdesk. Details available on the bus,Medway Visitor Information Centreand online www.visitmedway.org

Service operates daily from 26 July to 7 September 2014.

l Adults £5.50l Concessions £4.50l Children £3l Family ticket £13(based on 2 adults/2 children or 1 adult/3 children).

Over of

There’s nobetter way toexplore whatMedway hasto offer thanon board ouropen top bus.

The route the bus takes around Medway is shown on the mapon page five, and you can hop on/hop off the open top bus atany of these points:Stop number 1 and 12Medway Visitor Information CentreThe bus tour starts and finishes here with the first bus departing at 10am, then runninghourly with the last bus departing at 4pm. The Medway Visitor Information Centre is inthe heart of historic Rochester and is the ideal first port of call for visitors to the area. It is agreat place to pick up information on local attractions or browse the souvenir and giftshop. The centre has a café serving hot and cold refreshments with an indoor andoutdoor seating area making it the perfect place to take a rest stop.

Stop number 2Boley HillTake in England’s second oldest cathedral and historic Norman castle that has stoodguard over the Medway since the 11th Century.

Stop number 3Rochester Station for Medway Little TheatreWhere regular shows, performances and local amateur dramas take place at Medway Little Theatre.

Medway Visitor Information CentreThe following heritage attractions are all within easy walking distance from theMedway Visitor Information Centre:l Rochester Cathedral;l Rochester Castle;l Guildhall Museum;l Restoration House;l Six Poor Travellers House;l Eastgate House and Dickens’ chalet.

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1,000 years history in one day

Stop number 4Chatham Waterfront Bus StationStep off here to visit Chatham town centre, Brook and Central theatres and 1st Bowl ten-pin bowling in the Pentagon Shopping Centre. The bus also stops here on its return journey.

Stop number 5Dock Road/Gun Wharf for Fort AmherstThis is the stop to visit Fort Amherst, built in 1756 to protect the naval dockyard fromlandward attack. Daily tunnel tours at 11am and 2pm.

Stop number 6Royal Engineers Museum, Library and ArchiveThis museum, library and archive provides a fascinating insight into Medway’s soldierengineers with exhibitions throughout the year. Closed Mondays.

Stop number 7Chatham Maritime for Dickens World and Dockside Outlet CentreDickens World celebrates the life, books and times of Charles Dickens while the DocksideOutlet Centre boasts leading retailers. Also on site is a nine screen cinema, restaurantsand bars.

Stop number 8The Historic Dockyard ChathamStep off here to explore the world’s most complete dockyard from the Age of Sail and abackdrop for popular TV drama, Call the Midwife.

Stop number 9Chatham Waterfront Bus Station for Upnor CastleUse your guided tour bus ticket to switch to the 197 service from Chatham Waterfront BusStation to Upnor Castle, at no extra charge.

Stop number 10Chatham Station for Ordnance TerraceOrdnance Terrace, was Dickens’ childhood home. The Dickens family lived here from 1817.

Stop number 11Eastgate House and Dickens’ ChaletStep off to explore the buildings that inspired Dickens including Restoration House.

Tours start from Medway Visitor Information Centre.

City of Rochester Society – Free toursA free walking tour around historic Rochester takes place everyWednesday, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from GoodFriday to the end of October. Tours take place at 2.15pm and last 90-minutes. Donations welcome.

Footsteps in Time - costumed character tours Join a costumed walking tour led by one of Dickens’ charactersand visit 13 locations that featured in the author’s works. Tourstake place at 12noon on the fourth Sunday of the month, February - November. £4 per person (under 6-year-olds free).

Walking tours around Rochester

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History and HeritageDiscover Medway’s history and

heritage by visiting some of the mostfascinating attractions that are just waitingto be explored. Explore more than 1,000years of history in Rochester with a visit tothe castle, cathedral, the historic housesand museums. The Historic DockyardChatham and Royal Engineers Museumoffer an insight into the area’s military andmaritime past.

Medway is a diverse and exciting destination with so much to see and do. It is steeped in history and rich in military and

maritime heritage. These pages will take you on a whistle-stop tour and give you a taste of what is on offer in Medway.

River and WaterwaysThe River Medway has long been

recognised as one of Britain’s mostimportant for leisure activities and has afascinating and illustrious maritimeheritage. The River Festival is just one ofthe many festivals and events that thattake place along Chatham Waterfront. Ifyou want to experience the river close uptry a river trip onboard the Edith MayThames sailing barge or the exciting newrapid Jetstream boat experience.

Dickensian Medway Medway’s most famous resident was

the great British author, Charles Dickens.Visit the places that were an inspiration tothe author in his works and experience morethan just Dickens at the twice-yearly Dickensfestivals in Rochester.

Free festivals and eventsCome and enjoy more than 30 days

of free festivals and events in Medway.The calendar includes the Chinese NewYear with colourful celebrations; theEnglish festival, the traditional May Daycelebrations at the Rochester Sweepsfestival, twice-yearly Dickens festivals,open-air theatre productions at the castlesand the River Festival to name just a few.

Major Sporting EventsMedway is developing a strong

reputation for hosting international,national and regional major

sporting events and competitions.Medway’s flagship centre of

sporting excellence can be found at Medway Park in Gillingham where you can enjoy top-class

sporting facilities.

Beautiful green spacesThe breath taking landscapes and

spectacular wildlife of the North KentMarshes are an essential visit to Medway.For nature lovers explore the walking andcycling trails at Capstone and Riversidecountry parks or enjoy the 18-mile circularHeron Trail cycle route that passes throughthe RSPB nature reserves on the HooPeninsula. The Strand Leisure Park inGillingham is popular with familiesthroughout the year.

Vibrant music sceneMedway hosts a series of open-air

music performances each year atRochester Castle, from pop, folk, soul and classical, as well as local bands andsingers performing all genres of musicacross Medway.

Culture QuarterEnjoy a wide variety of arts, crafts,

literary festivals and touring exhibitionsat the galleries and studios found acrossMedway. It is worth visitingwww.visitmedway.org for moreinformation.

Business and enterpriseFor business, Medway is an ideal

base to host a conference, workshop orexhibition, due to its proximity to Londonand Channel ports and Eurotunnel.

Easy to get toMedway is only 30 miles from

London and 40 miles from theChannel ports and Eurotunnel. Getting to

and around Medway couldn’t be easier byroad or rail as the area has excellent publictransport links. The high-speed train fromLondon St. Pancras International Stationtakes just 35 minutes to reach Medway.

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Retail

Food for thought

Historic Rochester offers a wide range ofindependent and specialist shops offeringa different type of shopping experience tofind that unusual gift or souvenir. It is alsoa place to admire yesterday’s curios,ranging from rare books that can be foundin the England’s largest second-handbookshop, to porcelain, arts and crafts todecorate your home.

Chatham is in the heart of Medway and thelargest of the town centres. There’s plenty ofshops to browse around and where you willfind the leading store names on the highstreet and at the Pentagon indoor shoppingcentre. Further leading retailers, offeringgreat discounts can be found at the nearbyDockside Outlet Shopping Centre atChatham Maritime. This shopping centre isnext to a delightful marina and theattractions of Dickens World and TheHistoric Dockyard Chatham. For an out-of-town shopping, take a trip to HempsteadValley Shopping Centre, located just off theM2 motorway (junction 4), which offers a

range of fashion, beauty, music and games,home ware and sporting accessories.

The town centres of Gillingham, Stroodand Rainham serve the local community.

Twice weekly markets take place inGillingham and Strood and on the thirdSunday each month locally producedgoods can be found at the RochesterFarmers’ Market.

Medway offers a mixture of shoppingexperiences that can be found inhistoric high streets, town centres andmodern indoor shopping centres.therapy

In Rochester High Street there’s a superbchoice of restaurants and bistros, servingdishes from around the world. Outsidedining is encouraged during the summerhere. There are quaint cafés with mouth-watering cakes and pastries to choosefrom and pubs offering traditional lunches.It is worth looking out for the daily specialsthat can be found on blackboards outsidethe various premises.

If it’s dining near the waterfront that takesyour fancy, then a visit to ChathamMaritime is a must. Here you can have apub lunch next to an attractive marina - tryout Mexican, Chinese, succulent steaks atthe many restaurants around Dickens

World. More restaurants and leisureentertainment can be found at MedwayValley Park, Rochester, just off the M2motorway (junction 2).

If gourmet pubs are more your thing thena gentle drive through the more rural partsof the area will take you to picturesquevillages and towns where you can discoverfamily-run pubs serving homemade dishesfor lunch and dinner. Beer lovers shouldlook out for local brews in pubs producedby the dockyard’s Nelson Brewery. Up to100 barrels a week are produced by thebrewery. All the ales have nautical themednames to correspond with thesurroundings in which they are brewed.

If you are visiting Medway for business orpleasure you are sure to be spoilt for choice

when it comes to places to dine.

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Eastgate House is a grade one listed building inthe heart of historic Rochester. This beautifulTudor townhouse was built in the late 1590s forSir Peter Buck, Clerk of the Cheque at Chatham’sRoyal Dockyard.

Throughout the centuries the house has been afamily home, a Victorian boarding school, andmost recently the town museum. Much loved byCharles Dickens, it features as Westgate in ThePickwick Papers and as the Nun's House in TheMystery of Edwin Drood.

Eastgate HouseRochester Opening summer 2015

Now, thanks to generous funding from HeritageLottery Fund, this treasured Medway landmark isbeing restored to its former glory and will soon beopen to the public once again.

Along with major repairs to the building, accessfor visitors will be improved with a new lift andthe re-instatement of a staircase, removed morethan a century ago. There will also be exhibitionsand displays telling the story of Eastgate Houseand those who have lived, worked and playedthere for more than 400 years.

Keep in touch with the project atwww.visitmedway.org/eastgatehouse

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Command of the Oceans The Historic Dockyard Chatham hasreceived a grant of £4.53m from theHeritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to support its£8.75m Command of the Oceans project.

Command of the Oceans will secure therepair and preservation of a range of TheHistoric Dockyard’s Scheduled AncientMonuments and its 18th Century Ship’sTimbers Archaeological find. It will createworld class galleries, interpretation andvisitor facilities to reveal the story andsignificance of the dockyard and itsdefences during the age of sail and deliver an appropriate sense of arrival forvisitors. Simply put, this investment will,through excellent storytelling andconservation, unlock the value ofChatham’s world-class heritage.

The Hugenot Heritage CentreThe Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) hasconfirmed a grant of £1.2million to set upthe Huguenot Heritage Centre inRochester. The Huguenot Heritage Centrewill tell the story of the Huguenots flightfrom persecution, how they integratedinto British society and the trades they

What’s new?If you’re returning to Medway or paying us your firstvisit there’s always something fresh to enjoy. Hereare a few of the exciting new attractions for 2014/15.

excelled in once they had settled. TheHuguenot Heritage Centre will open inSpring 2015 on the first and second floorsof the Medway Visitor Information Centrein Rochester’s High Street.

Rochester Cathedral –Hidden Treasures, Fresh ExpressionsWorks on Rochester Cathedral’s HiddenTreasures, Fresh Expressions project willsoon be underway thanks to the HeritageLottery Funded (HLF) bid of £3.55mgranted in 2013 and the generosity ofother funders contribution of over £1m.The project focuses on the Crypt, Libraryand the ‘hidden collections’ in thecathedral’s ownership. At the heart of theproject is the creation of a secureexhibition space within the medieval cryptfor the display of collections – a wealth oftexts, books, documents, charters,stonework, embroidery, plate, paintingsand historical artefacts that are currentlyhidden away from public view.

Rochester Cathedral believes in the abilityof people to bring the cathedral’s historyalive through inventive activities andinspiring events.

Eastgate House and GardensEastgate House is a nationally significantGrade I listed building in the heart ofhistoric Rochester. It was first built around1590 for Sir Peter Buck, Clerk of the

Cheque at the Royal Dockyard in Chatham,and later Mayor of Rochester.

Throughout its four hundred year historyEastgate House has been a family home, aVictorian boarding school and the townmuseum. It was also Charles Dickens’inspiration for The Nun’s House in TheMystery of Edwin Drood, and as WestgateHouse Seminary in The Pickwick Papers. Inthe gardens stands the Swiss chalet whereDickens worked on some of his mostfamous novels.

Eastgate House is now being restoredthanks to an exciting Heritage LotteryFunded (HLF) conservation project, andwill be fully open to the public in thesummer of 2015, with improved accessand visitor facilities.

River TripsExciting new river trips will be starting in April2014 from Sun Pier in Chatham. Summersailings will be available on the beautifullyrestored Edith May Thames Sailing Barge andvisitors can get a chance to get wet and wildon the exciting new Jetsteam boat ride (seedisplay advert on page 39).

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Christmas inRochester

Get into the festive spirit with a visit to Rochester this Christmas. Rochester is famous for its connection to the Great British

author, Charles Dickens and offers a uniquefestive shopping experience with a largeselection of independent shops and

places to eat and drink on the High Street.If you are looking for something extra

special to make your Christmasperfect - Rochester is where you

will find it.

For further details phone Medway Visitor Information Centre on 01634 338141

or visit www.visitmedway.org

2014 highlights forNovember/December include:f Christmas Light switch-on ceremony. f Rochester Christmas Market with festivefayre and Santa’s grotto 29-30 November,

5-7 and 12-14 December.f Dickensian Christmas – 6 and 7 December.

f Santa Fun Run. f Rochester Cathedral Christmas carols and services.

f Heritage attractions to visit – Rochester castle,cathedral and the Guildhall Museum.

f Independently owned shops, restaurants, bars and tea-rooms.

And much more…

Charles Dickens’ long association with Medway areabegan when the Dickens family moved to a small housein Chatham.Dickens’ father, John, was originally a clerk in the Navy Pay Office in PortsmouthDockyard. He was transferred to London in 1816 and then to Chatham in 1817.

Dickens’ most impressionable childhood days were spent in Medway and it was the placewhere he found inspiration for some of his work’s greatest characters and settings. Manyof the buildings found on Rochester’s historic high street carry plaques detailing how theauthor incorporated them into his novels. Take a gentle stroll around local graveyards andyou will discover where he found names of many of his characters.

Many heritage buildings in Rochester arefeatured in the works of Dickens. Theseinclude the Guildhall Museum, RestorationHouse, Eastgate House and Gardens, SixPoor Travellers House and in his lastunfinished novel, Rochester Cathedral andprecincts. To discover more on thesebuildings and other places that inspired

Dickens in his novels a short-film isplayed continuously throughoutthe day at the Dickens DiscoveryRoom at the Guildhall Museum. A self-guided walking trail with map is available fromMedway Visitor InformationCentre for £1.

The best way to explore Rochester and itsconnections with Dickens is by taking aguided walking tour with a local guide. The City of Rochester Society offer free 90-minute walking tours (April-October) onselected days. No need to pre-book, justturn up and enjoy the tour. On the fourthSunday each month (February-November)costumed walking guided walking tours are

available with Footsteps in Time (a chargefor costumed tours apply).

Dickens was not only famous for his classicbooks but also his ghost stories. On thelast Sunday of each month join Count Von Dickens on a haunted ghost walkaround Rochester.

Only three miles from Rochester is theDickens World visitor attraction. DickensWorld in Chatham Maritime takes visitors ona fascinating journey of the author’s lifetimeas they step back in time on the Grand Tour.

Walking tour contacts:City of Rochester Society (90-minute freetours) – phone 01634 320598 or visitwww.city-of-rochester.org.uk

Footsteps in Time (costumed walkingtours) – phone 01634 818630 or visitwww.footstepsintimerochester.co.uk

Ghost walks – phone 01634 819746 orvisit www.visitmedway.org

DickensianMedway

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English Festival18 April 2015Riverside Country Park, GillinghamThis annual festival celebrating Englishculture, history and tradition with familyentertainment including Punch and Judyand donkey rides at The Seaside, farmanimals at The Countryside Experience anda range of tasty tradition treats throughoutthe festival. Phone 01634 338141 or visitwww.enjoymedway.co.uk

Medway Festival of Steamand Transport5-6 April 2015 The Historic Dockyard ChathamEnjoy the spectacular sights, sounds andsmells of steam locomotives, tractionengines and hundreds of amazing vintageand classic vehicles. New for 2014:Amazing Hot Rods, drag cars and trucks.The curious world of Steampunks. Animalencounters and Modelling Zone. Livemusic (folk, blues and sixties in 2014).Event admission applies. Phone 01634823807 or visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Rochester Sweeps Festival3-5 May 2014 / 2-4 May 2015 RochesterMedway’s Sweeps Festival recreates thejoy and laughter enjoyed by Victorianchimney sweeps at their traditional annualfestival. Festivities include national andinternational folk bands, parades, stallsand Morris dancing. Phone 01634 338141or visit www.enjoymedway.co.uk

Dickens Festivals30 May-1 June 2014 / 29-31 May 2015

RochesterThe festival celebrates the work and life of

one of England’s greatest novelist, CharlesDickens. Step back in time to the Victorianera and enjoy street entertainment,parades, song, dance, competitions,traditional funfair and much more. Phone 01634 338141 or visitwww.enjoymedway.co.uk

Medway River Festival12 July 2014 Chatham Waterfront and River Medway A spectacular free family event withactivities on the river including races andfloating processions; plus activities on thewaterfront and children’s entertainment,as well as trade and food stalls. Phone01634 338141 or visitwww.enjoymedway.co.uk

Fuse Medway Festival13-15 June 2014 Various locations throughout MedwayFuse Medway Festival transformsMedway’s streets and open spaces withfree arts events and people from all walksof life. Activities include theatrical showsand performances, circus acts and streetentertainers. Phone 01634 338319 or visitwww.fusefestival.org.uk

Castle Concerts 2014Rochester Castle GardensWednesday, 16 JulyLevel 42 with special guests ShakatakThursday, 17 JulyShane Filan plus support.

Friday, 18 JulyUB40 plus support (Sold Out)Saturday, 19 JulyRoyal Philharmonic Concert Orchestrawith Jo Appleby and Noah Stewart.

Four fantastic evenings of music take placeevery year at Rochester Castle. Enjoy some

Medway hosts more than 30 days of free festivals and eventseach year, more than anywhere else in the south-east.Featured here are just some of our most popular ones.Further details on these and other Medway festivals andevents can be found by visiting www.enjoymedway.co.uk

Festivals

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Major Sporting EventsMedway Sport, the council’s sportinglegacy team, runs an extensiveprogramme of activities in sport centresand community settings across Medway.For further details on forthcomingsporting events including our Festival ofSport see pages 20 and 21 or visitwww.medway.gov.uk/onyourmarks

Disclaimer: Please note that circumstances can anddo change and publishers cannot acceptresponsibility for any subsequent amendment. As acharge applies for some events featured or datesmay subsequently change, it is advisable to phone orvisit websites for further information. Some events atThe Historic Dockyard Chatham may be not includedfor return visits with the 12-month ticket but haveseparate ticketing and pricing arrangements.

Dickensian Christmas6-7 December 2014 / 5-6 December 2015 Step back in time and start the festive shopping season inDickensian style with some of Charles Dickens’ favouritecharacters that come to life as they wander aroundRochester’s historic high street. Highlights include The SevenPoor Travellers Parade, Grand Parade and a CandlelitProcession with carols in the snow.

Rochester Christmas Market29-30 November, 5-7 December and 12-14 December 2014The Christmas market is held in the iconic setting of the castle gardens. Festive lighting,Christmas tree and a programme of entertainment and music will entertain visitorswhile they browse the stalls to find festive gifts, souvenirs and stocking fillers.

Phone 01634 338141 or visit www.enjoymedway.co.uk

Christmas inRochester

For details on these festivals andevents and more taking place

throughout the year visitwww.enjoymedway.co.uk

Salute the 40s20-21 September 2014 / 19-20 September 2015The Historic Dockyard ChathamSoak up the atmosphere as Life on theHome Front is superbly re-created at thisnostalgic 1940s event with fantasticwartime entertainment, vintage fashionand re-enactors. See hundreds of militaryvehicles and Home Front displays and anamazing Spitfire air display. Eventadmission applies. Phone 01634 823807or visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

of your favourite music in the fabulousopen-air and intimate setting of thegardens of one of England’s most beautifulcastles. For further details about the 2014line-up visit www.thecastleconcerts.co.uk.This is a ticketed event where chargesapply. Phone 01634 338338 or visitwww.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Will Adams Festival13 September 2014 / 12 September 2015 Gillingham Park Experience a mix of Japanese culture andtraditions at this one-day free festival thatcelebrates the life and work of Gillingham-born Will Adams – England’s first Samurai.Activities include martial artsdemonstrations, face-painting, workshops,Tudor activities and authentic cuisine.Phone 01634 338141 or visitwww.enjoymedway.co.uk

Medieval Merriment6-7 September 2014 / 5-6 September 2015Rochester Castle GardensStep back in time and enjoy a weekend ofmedieval merriment at the castle.Activities include medieval fashion show,re-enactors, cooking displays and have-a-go archery, period stalls and traders bringhistory to life. Phone 01634 338141 orvisit www.enjoymedway.co.uk

and Events

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where internationalchampions clash

Medway Park is Medway’s flagship centre of sporting excellence.n International and national sporting event venue

n 12 multi-sports halls for badminton, tabletennis, basketball, five-a-side football and wheelchair sports.

n Athletics trackn Football pitchesn Squash courtsn Swim and dive pools

www.medwaypark.org.uk01634 336655

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Get activeFrom elite level sport, running routes and cycle routes,Medway has much to offer the active visitor.

Medway is passionate about sport andgetting active and offers a whole Festivalof Sport, something for everyonewhether you want to play, compete orspectate. It showcases excellence, offersopportunities for participation andinspires everyone to get involved.

It kicks off with the Medway Big Ride, abrand new cycling festival on Saturday, 17May. Bring your bike and enjoy all the freeactivities on offer. The festival finishes withthe Medway Mile on Friday, 25 July, a massparticipation one-mile run around historicRochester including activities andentertainment. You don’t have to be aresident to take part everyone is welcome.Make the most of your time in Medwayand join in our Festival of Sport.

The 80 days between 17 May and 25 Julyare packed with opportunities to trysomething new and enjoy sport as afamily or on your own. Visitwww.medway.gov.uk/festivalofsport tofind out more.

Medway is fast becoming known as adestination for hosting major sportingevents with spectators visiting Medway’stop class sports facilities and getting theopportunity to watch elite level sport.

The Modern Pentathlon World Cup in2010 was the first global sporting eventto be hosted in Medway. Thousands of

spectators enjoyed four days ofcompetition by the world’s leading multi-sport athletes, including world andOlympic champions.

Building on the success of the ModernPentathlon World Cup Medway was chosento host the Wheelchair Rugby LeagueWorld Cup in July 2013, widely heralded asthe most professional and successfultournament in the sport’s history.

Following the triumph of last year’sWheelchair Rugby League World Cup,England, Ireland, Scotland and Walesreturn for a Four Nations Tournament. So if you missed the World Cup thenmake sure you visit us to watch theseelite athletes in action. For more information visitwww.medway.gov.uk/majorsportsevents

Medway is also home to Gillingham FC,Kent’s only professional football leagueteam. Gillingham Football Club worksclosely with the local community,offering the opportunity to enjoy familyfootball with their ‘Kids for a Quid’promotion, which is available atdesignated matches.

So while you are visiting take theopportunity to come along and watchhigh quality football in Medway. To findout more about the Gills fixtures visitwww.gillinghamfootballclub.com

Annual memberships from only £624*

Deangate Ridge Golf ClubDuxcourt Road, Hoo, Rochester, Kent ME3 8RZ.www.deangateridge.co.uk01634 333966

Kent’s best-kept golfing secret

l 18 hole, par 71 course

l Exquisitely kept fairways and greens

set in rolling parkland

l 11 bay floodlit driving range

l Lessons for all abilities

l Twilight sessions available

l Clubhouse bar and restaurant

l Pay and play options available

l Home to Medway Open

l Pro-shop for all your golfing needs

A true test of golf designed byinternationally renowned architect

F.W. Hawtree, Deangate Ridge is a classic among the

Kent golf courses

*senior and age-group discounts22

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A breath offresh air

The breathtakinglandscapes and

spectacular wildlife of the North Kent Marshes

are an essential part ofany visit to Medway.

The Hoo Peninsula cycle route, known asthe Heron Trail, is a great way to explore animportant part of this area. The 18-milecircular trail takes in both the Cliffe Poolsand Northward Hill RSPB reserves.

The Riverside and Capstone Farm countryparks are ideal places to get active andexplore as a family with their walking andnature trails, cycling routes and children’splay areas. Both have on-site visitorcentres that provide excellent advice andeducational resources and it’s worthchecking out the programme of regularworkshops and events that take placethroughout the year.

Capstone Farm Country ParkCapstone Road, Gillingham, ME7 3JGPhone 01634 338191 or visitwww.medway.gov.uk

There are 280 acres of ancient woodland,orchards and meadows to explore.Facilities include a visitor centre, café,fishing lake and full programme ofworkshops and events.

Ranscombe Farm ReserveSundridge Hill, Cuxton, Rochester, ME2 1LAPhone 01634 292062 or visitwww.plantlife.org.uk

Set in a 600 acre nature reserve andworking farm on the slopes of the NorthDowns Area of Outstanding NatureBeauty. Trails offer breathtaking views ofthe surrounding countryside.

Riverside Country Park andBerengrave Nature ReserveLower Rainham Road, Gillingham, ME7 2XHPhone 01634 337432 or visitwww.medway.gov.uk

Riverside Country Park is situated on theMedway estuary with a backdrop ofmeadows and marshes. Facilities includea visitor centre, café and full programmeof workshops and events. Just one milefrom Riverside is Berengrave NatureReserve. This disused quarry pit not onlyhas tremendous historical value, but alsohas many species of wildlife andprovides a variety of habitats.

RSPB Nature ReservesCliffe Pools and Northward HillPhone 01634 222480 or visitwww.rspb.org.uk/reserves

Cliffe Pools sits alongside the Thamesand is the place to enjoy bird watchingacross the saline pools. Just four milesup the road is Northward Hill RSPBreserve, home of Britain’s largest herony,which is accessed via an attractivewoodland walk.

Cycle routesMedway Council’s cycle map shows all on and off-road cycle routes in the urban areasof Medway and includes the Heron Trail. For a copy of the map emailtransport.planning@medway.gov.uk or phone 01634 331254.

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Set in 80 acres, The Historic Dockyard Chatham is apopular visitor attraction and film location,including the setting for the popular TV dramaseries Call the Midwife. This spectacular maritimeheritage attraction offers visitors a variety of thingsto see and do as they wander around the heritagesite exploring several galleries, climb aboard historicwarships and learn about the skills of the traderequired to be a first class shipbuilder. In 2013, TheHistoric Dockyard Chatham opened the Hearts ofOaks Gallery. Building on the most loved elementsof the former Wooden Walls of England Gallery, newtechnology and interpretation techniques bring thestory of people, ships and processes to life in a vivid,engaging and exciting way.

The Royal Engineers Museum offers afascinating insight into the work of theengineers over the centuries and houses acollection of international importance,telling the explosive history of Britain andits empire. Explore interactive displays,military vehicles and exceptional artefacts,including the Duke of Wellington’s map,used at the Battle of Waterloo.

Further along the road is Fort Amherst. Thefort was built in 1756 to defend the navaldockyard from landward attack, and itcontinued to serve this purpose up until theend of World War Two. A fascinating mazeof underground tunnels and chambers canbe explored at the fort on a guided tour.

Spectacular views of the River Medway can be enjoyed from the Great LinesHeritage Park. On the banks of the RiverMedway, Upnor Castle was built on theorders of Queen Elizabeth I to defend hernaval warships moored at Chatham butproved ineffective when the Dutch sailedup the river in 1667 to attack the Britishfleet at anchor.

Shipbuilding has long been a focalindustry along the banks of the RiverMedway. It grew in importance when

the Royal Dockyard was founded atChatham more than 400 years ago and

has forged Medway’s proud maritime heritage.

Defence ofthe realmFor centuries Medway has been

at the frontline of defending theEnglish from invasion.

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FrontlineMedway

In 2014 Medway commemorates 100 years since theoutbreak of World War One, 75 since the outbreak of

World War Two and 70 since D-Day.

Medway has played a significant role on the frontline of England’s defences for centuries. The following exhibitions, eventsand activities will be taking place during 2014. For admission pricesand times visit the attractions websites for details.

Time Bleeds First World War Family Activities27 - 30 May 2014 Royal Engineers Museum, Libraryand Archives, GillinghamWhat happens if we forget?.Uncover the contents of the pockets ofa First World War Royal Engineersgreatcoat and unravel his story. Discoverwhat it meant to have a ‘Fumsup’ goodluck charm and craft your own to gain alasting memory of his story. www.re-museum.co.uk

Stories from the Great War24 May to 11 January 2015 Guildhall Museum, RochesterWhat happened in Medway duringWorld War One? This brand newexhibition illustrates the local aspects ofthis terrible conflict by investigating thestories behind the events and people ofthe period - those well-known (such asGillingham's own fighter 'ace' JamesMcCudden VC) and not so well-known.On display will be many objects lent byMedway residents to help tell thosestories, and help us all remember.www.visitmedway.org

Valour, Loss and Sacrifice Temporary Exhibition26 July - 30 November 2014 The Historic Dockyard ChathamAn exhibition portraying the significantrole played by Chatham Dockyard, its

workers and the Chatham Port Divisionof the Royal Navy in the ‘Great War’,shown through the eyes of those whoserved. Four years of sacrifice and losswill be depicted using objects andartefacts drawn mainly from The HistoricDockyard’s own collection. Included inthe dockyard normal admission price.www.thedockyard.co.uk

First World War FamilyActivities 29 July - 29 August 2014Royal Engineers Museum, Libraryand Archives, Gillingham‘Royal Engineers Go to War’ Join us as wereveal the extent of Royal Engineersinvolvement in the First World War.Discover interesting facts about differentspecialisms such as transportation,tunnelling, surveying, chemical warfare,camouflage and the postal service. Findout how the war affected people’s livesin Medway. www.re-museum.co.uk

Kitchener's Army Weekend2 - 3 August 2014 Royal Engineers Museum, Libraryand Archives, GillinghamYour Country Needs You? Join livinghistorians to recreate the 'recruiting boom'at Brompton Barracks in August 1914 andmake history come to life! Find out if youcould meet the strict specifications forjoining the army in 1914 by coming face toface with a Royal Engineers recruitingofficer. Take part in basic trainingtechniques and discover what specialismsyou could have been trained in. www.re-museum.co.uk

Oh! What a Lovely WarFilm screening23 August 2014 Royal Engineers Museum, Libraryand Archives, GillinghamJoin us for a special film screening of Oh! What A Lovely War, portraying some ofthe more famous and infamous incidentsof the First World War. Mark Connolley,Professor of Modern British History atUniversity of Kent, will introduce the filmand give a short presentation of hisresearch into some of the eventsportrayed in the film. Suitable for age 16+. www.re-museum.co.uk

A First World War Centenary event 22 September 2014 The Historic Dockyard ChathamCommemorating the loss of the ThreeRoyal Navy Cruisers (HMS Aboukir, HMS Hogue and HMS Cressy). ACommemorative Church Service, anafternoon Beat Retreat Ceremony withthe Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marinesand opportunities to share family historystories. www.thedockyard.co.uk

War Time Christmas13 - 14 December 2014 Royal Engineers Museum, Libraryand Archives, GillinghamFind out how Christmas was celebratedduring the Second World War throughdemonstrations of cooking Christmasfavourites with rationed food, makingtraditional festive decorations, browsethe in-house vintage market, listen toChristmas Carols and watch ‘MedwayLindy Hoppers’ dancing in the style ofthe 1940s. www.re-museum.co.uk

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Houses of historyEach house of history has its own story totell, from the rich and famous, Kings andQueens, heroic men of war and one ofBritain’s best loved novelists and story-teller, Charles Dickens.

Rochester Cathedral is the second oldestcathedral in England and has been a placeof worship and prayer for over 1,400 years.The glorious Norman architecture of thenave and parts of the crypt, as well as one ofthe finest Romanesque facades in England,make it an inspirational place to visit. Audio-visual tours in several languages bring to lifethe untold stories of its stones.

As you wander through historic Rochester,a cluster of historic houses of history canbe found. Eastgate House a delightfulElizabethan house, which is of greatarchitectural and historic significance, builtin 1590 for Sir Peter Buck, once Aldermanand Mayor for the City of Rochester andClerk to the Cheque at Chatham Dockyard.The house featured in the works of CharlesDickens as a school for young ladies and inthe author’s unfinished novel, The Mysteryof Edwin Drood. In the gardens of thehouse stands Dickens’ Swiss Chalet, usedby the author as his study at his home atGad’s Hill Place.

Just a short stroll from Eastgate isRestoration House, an imposing red-brickcity mansion, so named after Charles IIstayed here on the eve of his restoration to the throne. It was also used as the homeof Miss Havisham and Estella in Dickens’Great Expectations. The house and gardensare open to the public on selected daysduring the summer.

In the heart of Rochester’s historic HighStreet stands the Six Poor TravellersHouse – a charity founded propertyimmortalised by Dickens in one ofChristmas short stories. A few doors awayfrom the house is La Providence, adelightful Victorian square with propertieswith accommodation to provide homes forpeople of Huguenot descent.

From towers Discover the centuries of history and heritage

that Medway has to offer. Other houses of history that can be seen inRochester, just a short stroll from the HighStreet include Minor Cannon Row,comprising of seven charming 18th centuryhouses at the rear of the cathedral and SatisHouse on Bakers Walk which is the propertyDickens borrowed the name from andattached it to Restoration House for hisnovel Great Expectations.

Just across the river in Strood standsTemple Manor. A 13th century house builtto provide lodgings and fresh horses for theKnights Templars as they joined or returnedfrom their crusades to the Holy Land.

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to tunnels

Castles and ruins No one can miss the great square keep ofRochester Castle as it towers above the RiverMedway. It was on this site that the Romansoriginally built the first fort to guard the bridge thatconnected the London to Dover route. The castlewas partly demolished in 1215 at the hands of KingJohn, who famously attacked it burning the pitprops using the fat of 40 pigs, to recapture it fromthe rebel noblemen. The rebuilt circular tower,contrasts with the three remaining square ones as areminder of one of the bloodiest sieges in history.

Further along the banks of the River Medway,Upnor Castle was built to protect Queen ElizabethI’s warships moored at Chatham. Despite a braveattempt, the fort proved ineffective in 1667, whenthe Dutch sailed up the river to attack the Britishfleet at anchor. An audiovisual experience relives

this dramatic raid in detail at the castle. As a resultof the Dutch raid, the first fort near Gillingham wasbuilt. Cookham Wood Fort was begun in 1669 tohold guns on two tiers that would fire at hostilevessels entering at Gillingham Reach.

Fort Amherst was built in 1756 to defend the navaldockyard from landward attack. The fort has afascinating and thrilling complex of undergroundtunnels, chambers that were extended in the early19th century by French prisoners of war to create avast underground stores, guardrooms and barracks.Guided tours of the tunnels are availablethroughout the year.

As you explore Medway in more detail, you willdiscover many other forts dotted along the riversedge. Hoo Fort, Fort Luton and Fort Darnet all withtheir own interesting stories to tell.

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Getting out on the water is a unique way toexperience what makes the Medway estuaryone of Britain’s most important maritimeheritage destinations.

The river continues to support animmensely diverse ecosystem, providingthe perfect habitat for thousands ofbreeding and wintering birds. These birdsare so important that the estuary isprotected by both national andinternational designations.

Along the river there is a fascinating arrayof yacht clubs, marinas and boatyardsoffering a wide range of mooring facilities.Boat owners can explore the estuary andexperience the spectacular maritimeattractions throughout Medway. Publicpier access is available in Rochester and atSun Pier Chatham.

People have lived and worked on oraround the river for thousands of years. Asa result it is rich in both archaeological andhistorical remains including prehistoricdroveways (used to move cattle); Romanpottery kiln sites, Anglo Saxon fish trapsand numerous military installations goingback centuries, and two historic dockyards.

Many defences can be seen from the riverthat were important to the dockyards,these include Upnor Castle, built on theorders of Queen Elizabeth I to protect thenaval warships at Chatham and FortAmherst situated on a hill built in 1756 toprotect the dockyard from landwardattack, and continued to serve this purposeup until the end of World War Two.

Exciting new river trips will be operatingfrom Chatham’s Sun Pier during thesummer months.

In July, plenty of action on the river can beseen from Chatham Waterfront at theannual Medway River Festival. This is aspectacular family event with activities onthe river including races, floatingprocessions; plus activities on thewaterfront for the whole family to enjoy.

Whether you are looking to relax in theglow of incredible beauty, or get active onwater or land, the River Medway hassomething for everybody.

Meander on

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Edith MayThames Sailing BargeA fully restored example of the iconicThames sailing barges that would ply theirtrade under canvas alone. Regular sailingsfrom Sun Pier Chatham take place duringthe summer on the river.

Web: www.edithmaybargecharter.co.uk

Jetstream ToursTwist is a 9m aluminium jet boatthat has been specially adaptedto suit the River Medway. Thewet and wild experience startsfrom Sun Pier, Chatham and lasts90-minutes with onboardcommentary on the local area.See our display advert on page39 for further details.

Web: www.jetstreamtours.com

Light Vessel 21(LV21)

A 40 metre steel-hulled lightship beingtransformed into a floating cultural facility.It has been designed to provide a range of

services promoting and supporting thecreative industries in the area.

Web: www.lv21.co.uk

Medway Queen Preservation SocietyThe paddle steamer Medway Queen has now returnedhome to Gillingham and is currently being fitted out. For details on the works progress to date and how to getinvolved in the restoration project visit the website.www.medwayqueen.co.uk

the Medway

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www.medway.gov.uk/strand 01634 333925

• riverside walk • café • miniature railway • play area •

• netball • basketball • crazy golf • 5-a-side football •

• tennis • outdoor swimming pool with lazy river* •

• paddling pool* • pitch and putt golf course •

*Seasonal opening

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Come rain or shine,there are plenty of

family fun attractionsin Medway to inspire,amuse and captivate

the whole family.

The Strand Leisure Park in Gillingham is agreat family fun outdoor attraction.Throughout the year there are tennis andnetball pitches, crazy golf and a pitch andputt nine hole golf course, a miniature railway and children’s play areas. During the summer months, the outdoorswimming pool with a lazy river providegreat family entertainment.

Sporting fun for families is available atMedway’s sports centres and green spaces.Further details on getting active inMedway can be found on pages 20 and 21.

There are buckets of fun to be had atDiggerland, the ultimate adventure park where adults and children get the opportunity to drive real dumpertrucks, as well as more than 15 other rides to choose from. Try the exciting new Big Digger Experience, where you can getbehind the controls of a giant Komatsu

Excavator for a 90-minute one-to-onesession with an expert instructor.

To experience high speed with sharpbends then Buckmore Park Kart Circuit isa place to head for. It’s where LewisHamilton and many of Britain’s recentForumula One drivers learned their trade.

An all-round entertainment experience canbe enjoyed at Medway’s ten-pin bowlingalleys in Rochester’s Hollywood Bowl andat the MFA Bowl Chatham. Offering familyrates and special children deals, on-siterestaurants and amusement areas.

Special activities for children, includingworkshops and events can be enjoyed atMedway’s heritage attractions andcountryside parks. It is worth checking thewebsites of these venues when planning avisit to the area. For further details visitwww.visitmedway.org

Diggerland Phone: 0871 2277007 Web: www.diggerland.com

Buckmore Park Kart Circuit Phone: 01634 201562Web: www.buckmore.co.uk

MFA Bowl ChathamPhone: 0843 2908930Web: www.mfabowl.com

Hollywood Bowl RochesterPhone: 0844 243007Web: www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk

Family fun

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Arts and cultureMedway’s art and culture will stimulate

your senses and imagination.

Medway hosts more than 30 days of free festivals and eventseach – more than anywhere else in the south-east.

The well-established traditional festivals celebrating CharlesDickens’ connections with the area, Dickens Festival andDickensian Christmas, are world famous, but are only one partof the festival scene, which includes the English Festival,Sweeps, Fuse and River Festival to name a few.

The Medway calendar of culture begins with the Chinese NewYear celebrations organised by the Chinese community inChatham town centre – with lion and dragon dancing in thestreets and people dressed in colourful traditional costumes. In July, the Castle Concerts offer several evenings of music in thespectacular castle gardens. During the summer open air theatreproductions take place at Rochester and Upnor Castles.

There is an enticing choice of theatre from the mainsteamproductions at Chatham’s Central Theatre to the moreexperimental offerings of the Brook Theatre, also in Chatham.Regular performances of a quirky and intimate nature can befound at Medway Little Theatre in Rochester and a wide rangeof productions, comedy nights and tribute evenings can beenjoyed at the Britannia Theatre, Dickens World.

Medway’s arts scene has deep-reaching roots, with Billy Childish,Zandra Rhodes and Jeff Banks having nurtured their talents inthe area. Arts centres and galleries can be found in Chatham andRochester town centres. Regular touring exhibitions can befound at No.1 Smithery at The Historic Dockyard Chatham and atthe Medway Visitor Information Centre’s art gallery and craftcase. The commercial arts scene is highly developed inRochester’s High Street’s art and craft galleries, exhibitions andworkshops that take place at Francis Iles Galleries andNucleus Art Centre.

There are many things visitors on a tight budget can do for free.Visit the cultural attractions in Rochester such as the Six PoorTravellers House and Guildhall Museum, attend a free festival oron selected days between April to October join a free guidedwalking tour around historic Rochester with a local guide fromThe City of Rochester Society.

The Rochester Literature Festival brings together writers,performers, musicians, producers and film-makers together toproduce a series of events, performances, workshops andproductions. For more information visitwww.rochesterlitfest.com

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Throughout the year many exhibitions,workshops, talks and special weekend events

take place in Medway.

The Historic Dockyard Chathamwww.thedockyard.co.uk

Marvellous Monsters14 May - 1 June 2014Zog story telling with a musical difference and take a 'MonsterSafari' – a trail across the site. Some elements are at a smalladditional cost.

Doc. Yard’s ‘Techsplorers’ and Pirate Play Days 26 July - 31 August 2014A range of hands-on family activities for budding engineers.Science show delivered by Doc. Yard and his assistant Bunsen.Large demonstrations and participatory elements.

Wicked Webs and Spider Spells25 October - 2 November 2014Pumpkin carving, storytelling and a spooky spider trail aroundthe site.

War GamesJune - September 2015 A V&A Museum of Childhood touring exhibitionA dynamic and provocative exhibition that illustrates the diverseways that play and toys recreate and represent warfare –Revealing the ‘secret history’ of toys used as tools of war andespionage, and bringing to light the dramatic impact thatconflict has had on children’s play and toy manufacturing.Featuring toy soldiers, toy weapons, board and computer gamesand much more.

Royal Engineers Museum, Library and Archive, Gillinghamwww.re-museum.co.uk

‘Swing Back In Time’ at the Royal Engineers Museum24 May 2014Dust off those dancing shoes and join us at the Royal EngineersMuseum for an evening full of energetic swing dancing incelebration of World Lindy Hop Day and as part of the annualMuseums at Night festival. This evening looks to be anentertaining and fun night appealing to dancers and non-dancers alike.

Bridge Building Father’s Day Competition14 - 15 June 2014Spend time with the family and take part in a fun bridge buildingcompetition. Using a variety of materials, see who can use theirengineering skills to build the strongest bridge to carry all theirfamily across the pretend River Medway.

Berlin Wall Art Family Activities28 - 31 October 2014Discover why the wall was popular with artists from all over theworld and what styles and techniques they were using to createstreet art. Even the youngest of visitors will have plenty ofinspiration to contribute to the Museum’s expressive mural.

The Unseen Project30 October 2014 - 27 March 2015The Unseen Project is an experimental photo-series which usessome of the last infrared colour film ever produced. The workexplores the boundaries of our perception, allowing us to see thingsoutside our normal visual spectrum. Including the 1986 Chernobylnuclear power station (Ukraine) explosion which contaminated thesoil, water and atmosphere creating ‘The Red Forest’ that has takenover the abandoned villages and towns nearby.

Fort Amherst, Chatham www.fortamherst.com

Tunnel ToursDaily 11am and 2pmCome and discover how the tunnels were used duringNapoleonic times for shelter, storage and defence.

Ghost ToursFirst Friday of every monthEnjoy a lantern-lit ghost tour around Kent’s most paranormallyactive location Not suitable for children under eight-years-old.

Paranormal InvestigationsSpend a night in one of the most paranormally active places inKent with resident medium Richard Ware. Over 18s only. Visitwebsite for dates and prices.

Halloween HorrorsOctoberEnjoy the Halloween experience in the labyrinth caves and old fort.

Rochester Art GalleryMedway Visitor Information CentreHigh quality programme of touring contemporary art and craftexhibitions take place throughout the year.

The Central and The Brook TheatresA full schedule of regular evening entertainment at Medway’stheatres in Chatham visit www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Britannia Theatre, Dickens WorldFor a full schedule of regular evening entertainment, musicnights and parties taking place visit www.dickensworld.co.uk

Britannia Theatre, Dickens WorldPhone: 0844 858 6656 Web: www.dickensworld.co.uk

The Central and Brook TheatresPhone: 01634 338338 Web: www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Medway Little Theatre, RochesterPhone: 01634 400322 Web: www.danwillis.freeserve.co.uk

No.1 Smithery, The Historic Dockyard ChathamPhone: 01634 823800 Web: www.thedockyard.co.uk

Nucleus Arts Centres (Chatham and Rochester)Phone: 01634 812108 Web: www.nucleus-arts.com

Francis Iles GalleriesPhone 01634 843222 Web: www.francis-iles.com

Star ratings made easy H Simple, practical,

no frills

HH Well presented and well run

HHH Good level of quality and comfort

HHHH Excellent standard throughout

HHHHH Exceptional withdegree of luxury

All self-catering accommodationand hostels have been qualityassessed and they are also ratedfrom one to five stars.

34

Looking for a place to stay?Whatever your taste or budget, you’ll find

accommodation to suit your needs.

How to book your accommodationIn this guide the accommodation islisted alphabetically by area. Pricesgiven are for bed and breakfast (B&B)per room, per night, unless otherwiseindicated. All prices include VAT (at thecurrent rate of 20 per cent) and servicecharges. Once you have chosen whereyou would like to stay, you can bookyour room by phone, fax or email(where available) directly with theestablishment of your choice.

Quality assuredAll the accommodation in this guideand on our website has beeninspected either by the AutomobileAssociation (AA), VisitBritain or hasapplied for a rating and is awaitingassessment. Hotels and guestaccommodation (including B&Bs) areassessed using the same one to fivestars criteria. The star rating reflectsthe overall quality of the experience.

AccessibilityMuch of the accommodation featuredin this guide is able to cater for a rangeof disabilities. A number have groundfloor bedrooms. To ensure that yourneeds can be catered for, contact theaccommodation provider to discussyour requirements before booking.

Medway Visitor Information CentreIf you need advice or assistance withseeking a suitable place to stay inMedway, this can be obtained fromthe Medway Visitor InformationCentre in Rochester by calling 01634338141. Further information aboutaccommodation in the area withcontact details and links to individualestablishments own websites (whereapplicable) can be found atwww.visitmedway.org

General adviceIf you experience a problem withaccommodation, you should tell theproprietor/manager immediately. He/she should be keen to addressyour situation. If the problem remainsunresolved please write to Quality inTourism, Security House, AlexandraWay, Ashchurch, Tewkesbury,Gloucestershire GL20 8NB.Phone: 0845 3006996Email: qualityintourism@uk.g4s.comWeb: www.qualityintourism.com

Where to stay

Key to additional symbols - self-cateringt Linen hire services Linen provided free` Laundry facilitiesD Washing machine and drying facilitiesa Dishwasherœ Microwave in each unit‡ Gas/electricity by meterT Games room

Ç Showers† Public payphoneÍ Shop on site= Chemical waste disposal‚ Entertainment/recreation on park∑ On working farmd Fresh waterw Toilets

Key to symbols

French spoken Dutch spoken German spoken

^ No smoking establishmento Evening meal by arrangement˙ Dogs accepted± Tea/coffee making facilitiesm Restaurant

No smoking rooms available; Central heating Alcohol licence

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- Cot availablep Indoor/outdoor swimming pool> Children welcome (minimum age)3 Building of literary or architectural interestÒ Credit cards acceptedt TVs Phone in bedrooms9 Ground floor bedroom available◊ GardenΩ ParkingS Closest rail station WiFi The VisitEngland Breakfast Award

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Hotels, inns, guesthouses, bed and breakfastChatham HHHH HotelBRIDGEWOOD MANOR HOTELBridgewood Roundabout, Walderslade Woods, Chatham,ME5 9AX Tel: 01634 201333 Fax: 01634 201330

Email: bridgewoodmanorreservations@qhotels.co.ukWeb: www.qhotels.co.ukSituated at the edge of historic Rochester with links tothe M2 (J3) and the M20 (J6). Modern conference hotel -100 well appointedbedrooms, restaurant, 2 bars, leisure/spa/pool. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double from £75-£135, single from £125

S Chatham 3 miles

Rooms: 100, all en-suite Free ± m ; - p > Ò t s 9 Ω

4 MILES SOUTH OF ROCHESTER MAP B - D13

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Chatham HHHH HotelHOLIDAY INN ROCHESTER-CHATHAMMaidstone Road, Chatham, ME5 9SFTel: 0871 9429069 Fax: 01634 673673

Email: reservations-rochester@ihg.comWeb: www.holidayinn.co.ukModern and friendly 24hr service hotel. Health Club/indoor pool.Restaurant, bar and lounge.Families welcome. Accessible rooms and conference facilities.Ideally located for historic areas of Kent.1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double and family rooms from £60 (subject to availability) single £65-£75

S Chatham 31/2 miles

Rooms: 149, en-suite and air conditioned ± m ; - p > Ò t s 9 ◊ Ω

31/2 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP B - D12

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S Chatham 1 mile

Rooms: 90, all en-suite ± m ^ - > Ò t s Ω

1 MILE FROM CHATHAM MAP A - N1

Chatham HHH HotelRAMADA ENCORE HOTELWestern Avenue, Chatham Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4NTTel: 01634 891677 Fax: 01634 895152

Email: reservations@encorechatham.co.ukWeb: www.encorechatham.co.ukFantastic hotel based in the heart of the Chatham Historic Dockyard area, close to Rochester. All rooms are vibrant and modern with wet roombathrooms.

1 Jan-31 Dec Room rate at weekends from £49.95, mid-week from £79.95

S Rainham 1/3 mile

Rooms: 3, all en-suite ^ ± ; > t ◊ Ω

4 MILES EAST OF CHATHAM MAP B - K12

Gillingham HHH B&BABIGAILS HOTEL17 The Maltings, Rainham, Gillingham, ME8 8JL.Tel: 01634 365427

Email: davidjpenfold@talktalk.netContact: Pamela PenfoldWelcoming family establishment, quiet cul-de-sac, rural views to rear. Near motorways, station, shops, pubs and restaurants. WiFi, privatebathrooms, four-poster bed. Off-road parking.

1 Jan-31 Dec Twin £55, single £30, family £55.

S Higham 13/4 miles

Rooms: 5, all en-suite ^ ± ; - > t 9 ◊ Ω

3 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP B - D5

Cliffe Woods, nr Rochester HHHH Silver Award B&BORCHARD B&B11 View Road, Cliffe Woods, Rochester, ME3 8JQ.Tel: 01634 222780

Email: enquiries@orchardcottagekent.co.ukWeb: www.orchardcottagekent.co.ukSelf contained accommodation overlooking orchards. All rooms TV/WiFi, en-suite. Easy access to motorways. Ideal for business, familieswedding guests and exploring the Kent countryside.

1 Jan-31 Dec Double/twin £70-£80, single £45-£50, family room £95.

Gillingham HHH HotelKING CHARLES HOTELBrompton Road, Gillingham, ME7 5QTTel: 01634 830303 Fax: 01634 829430

Email: reservations@kingcharleshotel.co.ukWeb: www.kingcharleshotel.co.uk

The King Charles Hotel is a privately owned modern hotel,with a cosy restaurant and first class conference and banqueting facilities. We have 98bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer,telephone, wireless internet and satellite television. We are ideal as a base forexploring south east England and London, and we offer extremely competitive grouprates. Please phone for details. We have a civil wedding licence, with three bridalsuites available.1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double from £30, family room from £65

S Gillingham 1 mile

Rooms: 98, all en-suite ˙ ± m ; - > Ò t s 9 ◊ Ω

1 MILE SOUTH OF GILLINGHAM MAP A - O5

Gravesend HHH HotelINN ON THE LAKEA2, Shorne, Gravesend, DA12 3HB.Tel: 01474 823333 Fax: 01474 823175

Email: reservations@innonlake.co.uk

Web: www.innonlake.co.uk

Set in 12 acres of woodland, the Inn on the Lake Hotel,offers a friendly and comfortable stay in a modern, family run establishment. With excellenttransport links to London, the Channel Ports and the Medway towns, as well as the M2,M20 and M25 motorways, the stunning views across the two lakes are surprisingly tranquil and relaxing, with many of our rooms having direct access to the lakes.

1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double from £59.50, family room from £99

S Gravesend 3 miles

Rooms: 80, all en-suite ˙ ± m ; - > Ò t s ◊ Ω

3 MILES FROM GRAVESEND MAP B - WEST OF A8

High Halstow HHHH Self-cateringDECOY FARM COTTAGES

Decoy Hill Road, High Halstow, Rochester, Kent, ME3 8SRTel/Fax: 01634 256185 / 07946 088646Email: decoyfarmcottages@jkm-international.co.ukContact: Kim Myatt

Three cottages in converted barn on a working farm.Views across Northward RSPB nature reserve to Thames Estuary. Quiet rural location yet close to Rochester and motorways.

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights £175-£520, 7 nights £225-£695

S Strood 8 miles

Rooms: 3 cottages for 2 to 6 people ^ s ` t œ Ç

ROCHESTER MAP B - H8

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Rochester B&B (Awaiting grading)

MEDWAY LITTLE TOWN HOUSE14 Love Lane, Rochester, ME1 1TNTel: 01634 408034 Contact: Linda or John Russell

Email: medwaylittletownhouse@hotmail.co.ukWeb: www.medwaylittletownhouse.co.ukCentral location, modern townhouse with antique original décor. Double en-suite and double with private bathroom. Outstanding river viewswith balcony. Breakfast. Off road parking. Evening meals available. Cards accepted.1 Jan-31 Dec Single from £40, double from £70. Festival weekends min stay 2 nights.

S Rochester 1/2 mile

Rooms: 2 with en-suite and private bathroom. o ˙ ± ; - > Ò t Ω

CENTRE OF ROCHESTER MAP A - B7

Rochester HH Silver Award B&BCHURCHFIELDS6 Churchfields Terrace, St Margaret’s Street,Rochester, ME1 1TQ Tel: 01634 400679

Email: sian-smiles@supanet.comWeb: www.churchfieldsbandb.co.uk Contact: Siân Fowler

Comfortable town-house within five minute walk from historic Rochester. River views. Not suitable for children under 12. Welsh spoken.Wireless internet. Walkers welcome.1 Jan-31 Dec Twin £58-£60, single £28-£30

S Rochester 1/2 mile

Rooms: 2 ^ ± ; >(12) t Ω

1/4 MILE FROM CENTRE OF ROCHESTER MAP A - A8

Rochester HHH Silver Award B&BTHE COTTAGE

66 Borstal Road, Rochester, ME1 3BDTel: 01634 403888 Contact: Beryl Dover

Email: pinkhousecottage@gmail.comWeb: www.thecottagerochesterbandb.weebly.comVictorian cottage in quiet location.10 minutes walk tohistoric centre and restaurants. Easy street parking. Garden room en-suite available.Wireless internet.

2 Jan-15 Dec Double from £48, single from £32

S Rochester 1 mile

Rooms: 2, with private bathrooms ^ ˙ ± ; >(12) t ◊ Ω

1/2 MILE SOUTH OF ROCHESTER MAP B - D10

Rochester HHHH Silver Award B&BSALISBURY HOUSE29 Watts Avenue, Rochester, ME1 1RXTel: 01634 400182 Contact: Roger and Janet Reader

Victorian family house within easy walking distance of the castle, cathedral, historic High Street and station.Large comfortable well-appointed rooms.

1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £75, single £45, family room £90

S Rochester 1/2 mile

Rooms: 2, both en-suite ^ ± ; - > t ◊ Ω

1/2 MILE FROM CITY CENTRE MAP A - B8

Rochester HH B&BTHE SUNDIAL

18 Ranscombe Close, Strood, Rochester, ME2 2PBTel: 01634 721831

Email: sean@company8234.freeserve.co.uk

Very comfortable quality accommodation with attractivecourtyard. Friendly atmosphere. TV with freeview channels. Close to M2/20 motorways. Local restaurants and entertainment centreclose by.

2 Jan-15 Dec Double from £50, single from £25

S Strood 2 miles

Rooms: 3, 1 with en-suite ± > - t ◊ Ω

2 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP B - C9

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Rochester HH HotelGORDON HOUSE HOTEL

91 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1LXTel: 01634 831000 Fax: 01634 847034

Email: info@gordonhousehotel.netWeb: www.gordonhousehotel.net Contact: Mei ShomeHistoric building in central Rochester and ideal forexploring this lovely city. All rooms en-suite and ample parking Opposite cathedral and close to the castle. Full restaurant facilities.

1 Jan-31 Dec Double from £58, single from £48, family room from £85

S Rochester 1/2 mile

Rooms: 14, 11 en-suite, 3 with private bathroom ± ^ m ; - > 3 Ò t s ◊ Ω

CENTRE OF ROCHESTER MAP A - C6

Rochester HHH Self-cateringTHE CHIMES

6 Hawkwood Close, Rochester, ME1 1HWTel: 01634 842923 Contact: Norma Chambers

Email: normachambers@hotmail.co.uk

The Chimes is a modern non-smoking mews cottage,moments away from Rochester High Street and 3 minutes from Rochester Station. Off-street parking is provided. Sleeps 2.

1 Jan-31 Dec £80 per night. 3nights £240, 7 nights £540

S Rochester 100 yards

1 cottage for 2 people ^ s D > t œ Ç Ω

CENTRE OF ROCHESTER MAP A - F9

Rochester HHHH B&BGREYSTONES

25 Watts Avenue, Rochester, ME1 1RXTel: 01634 409565

Email: greystonerochester@gmail.comWeb: www.greystonesbandb.org.uk Contact: Bill LangComfortable quiet Victorian house within easy walkingdistance of Rochester’s castle, cathedral and High Street. Beautifully appointed roomseach with wired and wireless internet access.

1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £65-£75, single from £40, family room from £90

S Rochester 1/2 mile

Rooms: 6, 3 en-suite ^ ± ; Ò - > t 9 ◊ Ω

1/2 MILE FROM ROCHESTER MAP A - B8

Self-catering accommodation

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Doddington HHHH HostelPALACE FARM HOSTEL

Palace Farm, Down Court Road, Doddington, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME9 0AUTel: 01795 886200 Contact: Liz and Graham Cuthbert

Email: info@palacefarm.com Web: www.palacefarm.comFlexible comfortable accommodation with private ensuite rooms. Continental breakfast inc. Ideal for singles, families and groups. Situated in village with pub. Wi-Fi internet available.1 Jan-31 Dec from £16 per person, per night

S Teynham 4 miles

Rooms: 10 ^ > ± Ò - 9 ∑

141/2 MILES FROM CHATHAM MAP B - SOUTH OF R13

Snodland HHHH Self-cateringSANDHOLE BARNc/o South Cottage, 235 Sandy Lane, Sandhole, Snodland,ME6 5LG Tel: 01634 241988Email: me.scutt@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.sandholebarnkent.co.uk

Comfortable, well-equipped ground floor accommodation with private garden and parking. Quiet location near Leybourne Lakes, ideal forwalkers and water sports. Rochester 7 miles. Excellent base for touring.Low season 3 nights £350, 7 nights £425 Peak season 7 nights £525

S Snodland 1 mile

Accommodation: Unit sleeps 2-4 persons ^ s ` t œ D a Ç

7 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP A - A13

Rochester HHHH Self-catering cottagesSTABLE COTTAGES S Strood 6 miles

6 cottages for 5-8 people - ˙ p s ` D œ t T Ç

6 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP B - I 3

These charming oak beamed cottages are fully central heated, luxuriously furnished idyllically setin 20 acres of secluded farmland on the Hoo Peninsula with panoramic views of the Thames.

There is a heated indoor swimming pool, steam room, mini-gym and games room for theexclusive use of cottage occupants.

Tucked away down a private lane this secure site with electric gates offers peace of mind rarelyfound. Conveniently located with easy access to all motorways and ports. Situated 15 minutesfrom historic Rochester. London, Canterbury and the coast are all 45 minutes away.

We are close to a RSPB reserve and the Saxon Shore way making this the perfect base forwalking, bird watching, sightseeing or just getting away from it all.

Two four bedroom cottages with two en-suites sleeping eight people and four two bedroom cottages sleeping 5-6 people, fully equipped kitchen, lounge, dining table and chairs, bathroomwith bath and shower.

There are two fully equipped utility rooms on site, ample parking, a garden with barbeque, children’s toys etc. Guaranteed a warm welcome by Jason and Debbie Symonds

who live on site.

Fenn Croft, Newlands Farm Road, St Mary Hoo, Rochester, ME3 8RETel: 01634 272439 Email: info@stablecottages.comWeb: www.stablecottages.com Contact: Debbie Symonds

1 Jan-31 DecSmall cottages 7 nights £325-£650, 3 nights £275-£375.Large cottages 7 nights£700-£1,000, 3 nights £425-£575.

QMedway has a selection of hotels

and accommodation providerswho provide accessible rooms

and servicesFor more information about accessible rooms in

Medway, please ring the Medway Visitor Information Centre on 01634 338141 or contact us

by email visitor.centre@medway.gov.uk

Please be advised that you may need to contact theaccommodation establishment directly if you

have specific requirements. A selection of places tostay can be found on www.visitmedway.org

38

CastleCONCERTS

CastleCONCERTS

16-19 JULY ROCHESTERCASTLE GARDENS

www.thecastleconcerts.co.ukBox office: 01634 338338

#castleconcerts

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Adults £31.50 Children £21.50 Family (2+2) £100

Private hire and other trips available, see jetstreamtours.com for more details and bookings

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