Medway Guide 2010 by Medway Council

Medway 2010

Visitor Guide

www.visitmedway.org I

Dickens World, the indoor themed attraction at Chatham Maritime celebrating the life, work and times of Charles Dickens.

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Welcome

Experience the sights, sounds and smells of Dickensian England ~ Take the Great Expectations boat ride across the rooftops of London through atmospheric streets to the depths of London’s sewers ~ Be entertained by a cast of live costumed characters ~ Enjoy Peggotty’s Boathouse – a 4D cinema show ~ Play in Fagin’s Den ~ Meet some of Dickens’ characters in the Britannia Theatre animatronic stage show ~ Meet Scrooge’s ghosts in “The Haunted Man”

Medway is a vibrant, thriving destination offering enriching experiences with many stories to tell. It is a place steeped in history and rich in maritime heritage with Rochester’s splendid castle and cathedral and, in Chatham, a prospective World Heritage Site. The area is just 35 minutes by train from London and the same distance from the Channel ports. Over the centuries Romans, royals, writers and pilgrims have settled here. If you are looking for a place to visit on a short break, you will be surprised how much there is on offer in Medway. Whether you are interested in exploring the places that Charles Dickens loved and wrote about; visiting heritage and family attractions or attending our popular festivals and events - you will find an area packed with excitement, variety and fascinating stories. We look forward to welcoming you to this special place of ours. Cllr Jane Chitty Portfolio Holder for Strategic Development, Economic Growth and Tourism.

OPENING HOURS Open daily from 10.00am 10.00am to 5.30pm t (Seasonal variations closures may apply) (except Christmas Day,and seasonal variations apply)

Only 1 hour from central London. Next to The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Dockside Factory Outlet Centre and the Odeon multiplex. Dickens World, Leviathan Way, Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4LL enquiries@dickensworld.co.uk Tel: 01634 890421

Rochester Sweeps Festival

Welcome to Medway Military and maritime Heritage and history What’s new in Medway Literature Family fun In pursuit of nature Food and drink Culture Festivals and events Shopping Getting to Medway Maps Accommodation Welkom in Medway Wellkommen in Medway

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Written, edited and published by Medway Council’s Tourism Team, Gun Wharf, Dock Road, Chatham, Kent ME4 4TR. Inclusion of establishments in this publication does not imply recommendation or approval. While every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this guide, the publishers, their agents or employees cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions or subsequent alterations.

For more information visit www.dickensworld.co.uk

Front Cover: Upnor Castle, photograph courtesy of Wayne Huzzey. Photography inside: Enrico Seccatore, Chris Parker, Stuart Thomas and Visit Kent

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Welcome to Medway Five towns make a city Medway is the historic heartbeat of the north Kent coast, an aspiring place with an enviable situation.

Fort Amherst

Dickens World

Named after the River Medway, the area is made up of five towns Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham, Rainham and Strood – five towns now developing into a city. Each of the towns has their own place in history and offers a unique and interesting visitor experience.

Medway Visitor Information Centre Medway Visitor Information Centre in Rochester, is the ideal first port of call for visitors to the area. The centre is in the heart of historic Rochester. It is fully wheelchair accessible and offers a full tourist information service, art gallery, public toilets and a café serving hot and cold refreshments, with inside and outside seating areas.

Today, Medway is one of the southeast’s most assertive and fast developing places. Proud to be part of Kent, but also independent in spirit; a vibrant continental-style cultural scene is rapidly emerging in the area. The heart and soul of Medway is one of its most natural attributes the river. This has been recognised in the regeneration of the urban areas of Chatham, Rochester and Gillingham, where waterfront dining, marinas, residential and leisure complexes are fast emerging.

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Visitors can witness the physical transformation of Medway’s riverside from the top of one of the great monuments, especially Rochester Castle and Fort Amherst, Chatham. It is from here that the great landscape can be appreciated and the breadth and ambition of regeneration can be seen. The waterfront region of Chatham Maritime, with its attractive marina, shopping and new Quays development, sits alongside heritage attractions such as The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Upnor Castle and the defences of the Great Lines, Gillingham – on the UK shortlist as a World Heritage Site. To find out more visit www.chathamworldheritage.co.uk

Rochester Castle

Pop 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, we can give advice and assistance to find accommodation to suit your requirements and budget. Medway Visitor Information Centre 95 High Street, Rochester Kent ME1 1LX Phone 01634 338141 Fax 01634 847891 Email visitor.centre@medway.gov.uk Web www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

Medway Estuary

2010 marks an important year for Medway with new visitor facilities at Rochester Cathedral, a major new gallery opening at The Historic Dockyard Chatham and the completion of Medway Park, one of the south-east’s most exciting sporting complexes.

MEDWAY

For more information see pages 8 and 9. Upnor Castle Rochester Cathedral

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Military and maritime World-class heritage

Fort Amherst

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Chatham is a fascinating maritime destination with a history stretching back more than 400 years. Famous seafarers Hawkins, Drake, Nelson and Gillingham-born Will Adams would have known the area well. During the reign of King Henry VIII, the dockyard at Chatham emerged, which is today a major visitor attraction.

house a collection of international importance, telling the explosive history of Britain, its empire and the rest of the world since the 1700s. With interactive displays, military vehicles and exceptional artefacts including the Duke of Wellington’s map used at Waterloo, the museum is a genuine treat. Set in a picturesque village on the banks of the River Medway is Upnor Castle. The castle was built to protect Queen Elizabeth I’s warships moored in the river and also the dockyard itself. Despite a brave attempt, the castle proved ineffective in 1667 when the Dutch sailed up the river to attack the British fleet. Visitors can relive the Dutch attack in an exciting audiovisual experience at the castle.

The great naval dockyard in Chatham, produced many famous ships, including Nelson’s flagship HMS Victory. Set in 32 hectares (80 acres), this wonderfully preserved site, now The Historic Dockyard Chatham, is a maritime destination with numerous galleries and attractions to explore.

The best way to explore Medway’s defences and the sights on the river is aboard Britain’s last surviving coal-fired paddle steamer, the Kingswear Castle. Built in 1924 to a design of 1880, the Kingswear Castle offers regular afternoon, evening, full-day and private hire sailings during the summer months.

A new cultural venue opens during 2010 in the wonderfully restored No. 1 Smithery, with world-class maritime models, art and objects from two national museums, plus a Stanley Spencer art exhibition. Visitors will discover how warships were built in 1758, through the eyes of young apprentice William Crockwell on his first day at the dockyard, in the Wooden Walls gallery. Climb aboard three historic warships and make your own rope using traditional techniques with guides dressed in period costume at the Ropery. Don’t miss 3 Slip – The Big Store, where large military artefacts from 4

Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle

the dockyard’s own collection and from the nearby Royal Engineers Museum are on display. It’s housed in one of Europe’s largest and most awe-inspiring wide span timberroofed structures with a lift available to transport visitors to the spectacular mezzanine floor. Just a stone’s throw away, the military attractions of the Royal Engineers Museum and Fort Amherst can be found. The fort in

Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle

Attractions The Historic Dockyard Chatham Dock Road, Chatham, Kent ME4 4TZ Phone: 01634 823807/832800 Fax: 01634 823801 Email: info@chdt.org.uk Web: www.thedockyard.co.uk

Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle The Historic Dockyard, Dock Road, Chatham ME4 4TQ Phone/fax: 01634 827648 Email: info@kingswearcastle.co.uk Web: www.kingswearcastle.co.uk

Royal Engineers Museum Prince Arthur Road, Chatham Kent ME4 4UG Phone: 01634 822839 Fax: 01634 822371 Email: mail@re-museum,co.uk Web: www.remuseum.org.uk

Upnor Castle High Street, Upper Upnor, Rochester, Kent ME2 4XG Phone/fax: 01634 718742 Email: visitor.centre@medway.gov.uk Web: www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

Fort Amherst Heritage Park and Caverns Dock Road, Chatham ME4 4UB Phone: 01634 847747. Fax: 01634 830612 Web: www.fortamherst.com

Chatham, has a vast complex of underground tunnels and chambers that were used right up to the Second World War to defend the dockyard against landward attack. The Royal Engineers Museum is Kent’s only designated museum of national and international importance. It provides a fascinating insight into the debt owed and the part played by the engineers over the centuries. The many galleries

Royal Engineers Museum

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Heritage and history

Upnor Castle

Take a step back in time…

Temple Manor

of September, on selected days. Other heritage attractions to visit nearby include Temple Manor in Strood, a 13th century lodging house used to provide food and fresh horses by the Knights Templar on their crusades to the holy land. If it’s Victorian industrial history that takes your fancy then take a look at the Old Brook Pumping Station in Chatham.

Rochester Cathedral

When in Medway, you will be seduced by delightful Rochester, which was an important river crossing for the Romans and where the skyline is still dominated by the great keep of Rochester Castle.

Attractions Rochester Castle Castle Hill, Rochester, Kent ME1 1SW Phone/fax 01634 335882 Email rochester.castle@medway.gov.uk Web www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

The castle is one of the best preserved and finest examples of Norman architecture in England.

Rochester Cathedral

Rochester Castle has a chequered history, having been subjected to siege three times and partly demolished in 1215 by King John, who famously set fire to the pit props using the fat of 40 pigs. Today visitors can see the rebuilt round tower (rather than square), which was designed to better deflect missile attack and work against future attempts of undermining. Visit the castle as a prelude to the release of the forthcoming Hollywood film Ironclad based on the story of King John’s seige. Just across the road from the castle is Rochester Cathedral, the second oldest in England. As you wander around this beautiful and spiritual cathedral you will see a fine collection of medieval wall paintings and the first genuine fresco to be painted in an English cathedral for nearly 800 years. The cathedral’s ancient history is brought to life via new interactive

Garth House, The Precinct, Rochester, Kent ME1 1SX Phone 01634 843366 Fax 01634 401410 Email visits@rochestercathedral.org Web www.rochestercathedral.org

Guildhall Museum High Street Rochester Kent ME1 1PY Phone 01634 848717 Fax 01634 832919 Email guildhall.museum@medway.gov.uk Web www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

Rochester Castle

exhibits, revealing the untold stories of its ancient stones. Visitors can now explore the cathedral using new leaflets, translated in several languages. Interpretation panels at key locations compliment this by giving a broad overview of the historic site. New audio tours (available in several languages) with visual presentations are also available. For a broad and engaging tour, take a stroll with musician Jools Holland as he narrates. For the younger audience let Egburga Eagle show you around as she swoops in and out of the cathedral rafters or for a more relaxing and spiritual experience take the reflective tour.

To discover the history of the area from pre-historic times to the present day, a visit to the Guildhall Museum, Rochester, is a must. Here you can see the terrible conditions endured by Napoleonic prisoners in the Hulks’ experience; learn about the life and work of Charles Dickens in the Dickens’ Discovery Rooms and view Rochester’s heritage quarter and the development of Rochester Riverside using cutting-edge camera technology. The best way to explore Rochester’s rich history is on a free 90-minute circular walking tour around the historic city with a guide from the City of Rochester Society. Tours take place from Good Friday to the end

Guided Walking Tours City of Rochester Society 6 Yalding Close, Frindsbury, Rochester Kent ME2 3XF Phone 01634 320598 Email info@city-of-rochester.org.uk Web www.city-of-rochester.org.uk

Temple Manor Knight Road Strood, Rochester Kent ME2 2AH Phone 01634 335882 Email visitor.centre@medway.gov.uk Web www.medway.gov.uk

The Old Brook Pumping Station Solomons Road Chatham, Kent ME4 4LA Phone 01634 362847 Web www.oldbrookpumping.co.uk Medieval Merriment

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

What’s new in Medway

The Great Lines Gillingham

The Quays at Chatham Maritime

Chatham Maritime – The Quays and Jetty 5 Chatham Maritime is a major, high-end, mixed use development that occupies a large site close to The Historic Dockyard Chatham. Two distinctive glazed residential towers now stand out as landmarks at Chatham Maritime, almost like lighthouses, positioned on the northern most tips of the peninsula’s two historic quays. In addition the Quays location also offers three kilometres of riverside walks and cycle ways.

Medway Park sporting excellence Medway Park in Gillingham, is the area’s new £11million centre of sporting excellence. Boasting international-standard facilities, including an athletics track, judo centre, gymnastics hall linked to Jumpers’ Rebound Centre and one of the largest sports halls in the region, Medway Park is a modern centre of excellence for community and elite sport. Medway Park has been funded by Medway Council, Communities and Local Government, Sport England and the University of Kent. The university has opened a new centre for sports science and sports therapy.

Medway Park will be completed in February 2010. Two months later it will play host to the first global sporting event to be staged in Medway – the Modern Pentathlon World Cup. This is the first in a string of major events that will be coming to Medway in 2010 and beyond.

Medway Park is also an approved training venue for 13 Olympic and eight Paralympic sports. For more information about Medway Park, visit www.medwaypark.com

Smithery No.1 The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Great Lines Heritage Park The Great Lines Heritage Park is 70 hectares of parkland in the centre of Medway. Following approval of a £2.2million grant from the government, 2010 will see a new entrance in Gillingham, linking the town centre and Medway Park. A new pedestrian bridge will link the Great Lines to Fort Amherst where there will also be a new public entrance to the park. Located on elevated ground above Chatham, the Great Lines Heritage Park offers spectacular views over the River Medway, Fort Amherst, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, and towards Rochester. The Royal Engineers Museum is in easy walking distance and the newly opened Lower Lines Park provides continuity and a great example of the restoration of a unique historic landscape.

The Historic Dockyard Chatham No.1 Smithery, a new museum gallery and cultural venue opens in summer 2010. An exciting fusion of museum, heritage and culture where world-class maritime models, art and objects from two national museums and an historic industrial building come together to provide an inspiring and thought provoking mix. Plus a stunning Stanley Spencer art exhibition. Royal Engineers Museum From spring 2010, two new display spaces will be opening with one area telling the story of the most recent conflicts involving the Royal Engineers in Iraq and Afghanistan with a glimpse into the life of the modern sapper of the 21st century. A gallery dedicated to the art of the bridge builder and the evolution of bridge building with a substantial model collection will open in September 2010.

Next door, Jetty 5 provides a mixture of restaurants, bars and leisure accommodation with external terraces and balconies overlooking the attractive marina. Rochester Cathedral Discover the ancient untold stories of England’s second oldest cathedral via three separate audio-visual tours with dramatic presentations projected on the cathedral walls. These tours are complimented with a range of new leaflets, translated into a number of different languages which help to orientate the visitor.

Medway sporting events 2010 Modern Pentathlon World Cup 8-11 April 2010

See the world’s leading modern pentathletes, including world and Olympic medallists, compete in five disciplines fencing, swimming, riding, running and shooting. Visit www.pentathlongb.org National Tetrathlon Championships 5-6 June 2010

Some of the country’s top multi-event athletes compete for national glory in the four-event version of modern pentathlon. Visit www.pentathlongb.org Kent International Judo 26-27 June 2010

One of the largest events in the judo calendar – the Kent International Open Judo Competition - will be moving to Medway Park from 2010. The event attracts almost 1,000 competitors from the UK and across northern Europe. www.medway.gov.uk/london2012 ETTA Butterfly Table Tennis Grand Prix - 23-24 October 2010

See 200 of the country’s top table tennis players compete in the Medway stage of the national table tennis grand prix series. www.etta.co.uk Medway Park Crusaders

Medway Park is also home to the national league basketball side, Medway Park Crusaders. For details of all fixtures visit www.kentcrusaders.co.uk.

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Literature Dickens’ city of great expectations

Restoration House

Dickensian Christmas

Dickens World

Medway is proud of its connections with arguably one of England’s greatest writers. Charles Dickens moved to the area when he was five and spent the happiest years of his childhood around Chatham.

Six Poor Travellers’ House

Attractions Swiss Chalet at Eastgate House

Dickens World

His father John, a clerk in the Royal Navy pay office, was transferred to Chatham in 1817. Some of Charles’ most vivid memories must have been of the dockyard area where his father worked. Historic Rochester inspired the author so much that he featured it in his work more than any city, other than London. Many of the buildings found on the historic High Street in Rochester carry plaques giving details of how Dickens incorporated the site into his novels and a gentle stroll around local sites and graveyards will reveal where he found the names of many of his characters.

Eastgate House

Restoration House Crow Lane Rochester Kent ME1 1RF Phone: 01634 848520 Fax: 01634 880058 Email: robert.tucker@restorationhouse.co.uk Web: www.restorationhouse.co.uk

Six Poor Travellers’ House High Street Rochester Kent ME1 1LX Phone: 01634 845609 Web: www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

Dickens’ Discovery Rooms

The author’s life, times and work can be explored at the Dickens’ Discovery Rooms in the Guildhall Museum, Rochester. Here you can find authentic Dickens’ related objects, view the sites of Dickens interest in and around Medway using touch-screen technology and watch a short film on the author’s connections with the area in the audio-visual theatre. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of Dickens on a self-guided walking trail (leaflet available from Medway Visitor Information Centre). Other heritage buildings used by Dickens in his work that can be found in Rochester include Six Poor Travellers’ House; a charity property visited by the author and featured

Britannia Theatre at Dickens World

in one of his Christmas short stories, and Restoration House, described by the author as Satis House, the home of Miss Havisham and Estella in Great Expectations. One of Dickens’ most treasured possessions, his chalet, can be seen in the gardens of Eastgate House, just off the High Street in Rochester.

From here, it’s the briefest of journeys to the exciting indoor visitor complex Dickens World at Chatham Maritime. Dickens World takes visitors on a fascinating journey of Dickens’ lifetime as they step back into Victorian England and are immersed in the urban streets, sounds and smells of the 19th century. With a host of captivating attractions, Dickens World features the Great Expectations boat ride; the Haunted Man walk-through experience; Dotheboy’s Hall Victorian School Room with touchscreen technology; a 4D highdefinition cinema show in Peggotty’s Boathouse and performances in the Britannia Theatre.

Charles Dickens

Guildhall Museum High Street Rochester Kent ME1 1PY Phone: 01634 848717 Fax: 01634 832919 Email: guildhall.museum@medway.gov.uk Web: www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

Dickens World Leviathan Way, Chatham Maritime Kent ME4 4LL Phone: 01634 890421 Fax: 01634 891972 Email: enquiries@dickensworld.co.uk Web: www.dickensworld.co.uk

Dickens 2012 Bicentenary 2012 will be the bicentenary of the birth of Britain’s greatest novelist and story teller. To mark this special occasion, a year-long programme of events and activities to commemorate the birth of Charles Dickens will be taking place. For more information visit the following websites: www.medway.gov.uk/tourism www.dickens2012.org

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

F amily Fun Action-packed days out… Fun days out for the family are all about a great shared experience that entertains adults as well as children. Medway has a quirky selection of family attractions. Diggerland is the ultimate adventure park experience offering buckets of fun and over 15 different rides and drives to choose from. It’s the only place where you actually get a chance to have a go at real construction machinery and drive JCBs dumper trucks, mini and giant diggers. Sit in the bucket of a JCB and get lifted up 25 feet and spun around; test your manoeuvring skills with the JCB robot as you drive around obstacles; dig for treasure on the Buried Treasure mission or ride the Joyrider, Diggerland Dogdems and much more. Don’t miss the Sky Shuttle and enjoy

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Strand Leisure Park

spectacular views of the park and beyond, from a height of 50 feet. From 2010, come along and try your driving skills out on the ‘Diggerland Mini Landrovers.’

Attractions Diggerland Medway Valley Leisure Park Roman Way Strood, Kent ME2 2NU Phone 0871 2277007 Fax 0901 2010300 Email mail@diggerland.com Web www.diggerland.com

To experience thrills at high speed with sharp bends, head for the 1200 metre Buckmore Park international kart circuit where Lewis Hamilton and many of Britain’s Formula One drivers learned their trade. Buckmore Park offers karting for ages four to 80. If you want to introduce your children into the exciting sport of karting, then check out the arrive and drive sessions available on selected days during the school holidays.

Buckmore Park Karting Ltd Maidstone Road Chatham, Kent ME5 9QG Phone 01634 661606 Fax 01634 686104 Email sales@buckmore.co.uk Web www.buckmore.co.uk

The Ice Bowl Ambley Road Gillingham Business Park Gillingham, Kent ME8 0PU Phone 01634 388477 Fax 01634 374065 Web www.theicebowl.co.uk

All-year round winter sports can be enjoyed at Chatham Ski and Snowboard Centre, where you can brush up your skiing and snowboarding techniques and have a chance to jump in a Sno-tube on the cresta run. If you fancy practising ice-skating skills and party on ice then head for the nearby Ice Bowl in Gillingham.

Chatham Ski and Snowboard Centre Alpine Park Gillingham, Kent ME7 3JH Phone 01634 827979 Fax 01634 814075 Web www.chathamskislope.co.uk

Strand Leisure Park A289 Pier Road Gillingham, Kent Phone 01634 573176 Web www.medway.gov.uk Buckmore Park International Kart Circuit

Diggerland

The Strand Leisure Park, Gillingham, is a great family outdoor attraction. Throughout the year there are tennis and netball courts, crazy golf and a par three golf course, miniature railway and a children’s play area. In the summer the outdoor swimming pool, with lazy river, provides great entertainment.

history and test your knowledge on a themed trail. Visit the 19th century Hulks’ Experience and witness the dreadful conditions endured by the prisoners moored on the River Medway – an inspiration to Dickens in the creation of Magwitch the escaped convict in Great Expectations.

Family fun can also be found at local visitor attractions. At the Guildhall Museum in Rochester, follow a timeline through Medway’s

Clamber aboard three historic warships, look through a submarine’s periscope, twist a piece of rope to take home and have a

go at fighting a battle in the Museum of the Royal Dockyard at The Historic Dockyard Chatham. Step back and have fun at Dickens World at Chatham Maritime. ‘Speak when spoken to’ in the Victorian classroom, watch the 4D show on the author’s life experiences as he travels around the world and finish your trip on a dark boat ride by flying over the rooftops of London and down a sewer pipe.

Guildhall Museum

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

In pursuit of nature The North Kent Marshes and surrounding area Whether you are looking for relaxation or recreation, the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife spectacle of the North Kent Marshes will be an essential part of any visit to Medway. These expansive marshes have been immortalised by the work of Charles Dickens, who lived in Higham.

Buckland Lake Reserve, near Cliffe Wildfowl Reserve, Fishing and Diving Wildfowl Reserve Phone: 01959 525839 Fishing Phone: 01634 220005 Diving Phone: 07961 077241 Email: mail@bucklandlake.co.uk Web: www.bucklandlake.com Sixty-acre lake with footpaths, cliff top walks, bird hides and views over surrounding countryside. Carp, trout and mixed fishing lakes, diving centre with full training facilities. car parking and toilets. This is a developing project for wildfowl and for people, set in the amazing area of the North Kent Marshes. Planned circular walks, visitor centre and many activities. Open: Throughout the year. See website for details of opening hours and facilities or phone.

Cliffe Pools RSPB Reserve, Cliffe Phone: 01634 222480 Fax: 01634 222489 Email: northkentmarshes@rspb.org.uk Web: www.rspb.org.uk/reserves Come here for a spectacular landscape of open water and blue skies deep in the heart of Dickens country. Cliffe Pools is one of the most important places for wildlife in the UK with huge flocks of wading birds and waterfowl including avocets, dunlin and little egrets. Over 11km of trails including the Saxon Shore Way cross the reserve giving it great views of the pools and the River Thames which runs alongside. Open: Every day. Car park open 8.30am to 5pm daily except Christmas Day.

The Hoo Peninsula cycle route, or Heron Trail as it is also known, is a healthy way to explore an important part of this area. This circular trail covers 18 miles (29km) and will take you to Cliffe Pools RSPB reserve, along with Northward Hill RSPB reserve, near High Halstow. If you are on foot, the Saxon Shore Way provides a more traditional way of seeing this rich landscape at its best.

Copies of the map are available from Medway Visitor Information Centre, by emailing transport.planning@medway.gov.uk or by phoning 01634 331254

BUS 191 From Chatham Rail Station and Rochester (Mon-Sat 3 buses an hour)

Berengrave Nature Reserve, Gillingham Located one mile from Riverside County Park, this disused quarry pit not only has tremendous historical value but has also become a valuable home to many species of wildlife and provides a variety of habitats, including ponds, reed-bed and woodland. The glades, willow carr, open spaces and boardwalks weaving through the reserve give ideal places to observe the wildlife.

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and places of interest in Medway

Riverside Country Park, Gillingham Phone: 01634 337432 Fax: 01634 263827 Email: riversidecp@medway.gov.uk Web: www.medway.gov.uk Situated on the Medway estuary with a backdrop of meadows and marshes. Facilities at Riverside include a visitor centre and a cafĂŠ. There are a variety of habitats in the park, including mudflats and salt marsh, ponds and reed-beds, grassland and scrub, which provide a haven for wildlife. Open: 363 days, closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

C y c le ro u te s

Shorne Wood Country Park Phone: 01474 823800 Fax: 01474 823620 Email: country.parks@kent.gov.uk Web: www.kent.gov.uk/explorekent There are 300 acres of trails through ancient woodland, wetland and plenty of open grass for picnics and play. The amazing, visitor centre includes a cafe and shop and is a leading example of sustainable building. Wheelchair friendly paths and a sensory garden make the park enjoyable for all ages and abilities. Open: 9am till dusk every day, except Christmas Day.

Medway Council has a detailed cycle and tourism map available. The full coloured map shows all the on and off-road cycle routes in the urban areas of Medway and details of the Heron Trail, so you have no excuse for not knowing where to go.

BUS 176 From Chatham Rail Station (Summer Sundays) BUS 133 From Chatham Rail Station and Rochester (Mon-Sat hourly)

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Cycle routes in Medway

RSPB Northward Hill, near High Halstow Phone: 01634 222480 Fax: 01634 222489 Email: northkentmarshes@rspb.org.uk Web: www.rspb.org.uk/reserves Explore woodland and marshland trails and see the biggest heronry in Britain. Ten kilometres of trails are accessible, the woodland car park is sign-posted in High Halstow and the main car park is sign-posted off the Cooling Road. Enjoy fantastic panoramas across the marshland and Thames estuary. Open: Car parks and visitor trails accessible throughout the year.

Bus services For more information on bus services visit www.travelinesoutheast.org.uk or phone 0871 200 2233. Calls cost 10pence per minute from a BT landline, plus a 6pence set-up charge. Mobiles and other operators may vary. 14

Ranscombe Farm Reserve, Cuxton Phone: 01722 342730 Email: enquiries@plantlife.org.uk Web: www.plantlife.org.uk Ranscombe Farm is a 560-acre reserve of cornfields, ancient woods and downland. Set in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it has been a favourite haunt of wild flower enthusiasts for hundreds of years and is home to the most important site for cornfield flowers in Britain. Open: All year.

BUS 155 From Chatham Rail Station (Mon-Sat hourly)

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A229

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50p where sold

Capstone Farm Country Park, Gillingham Phone: 01634 338191 Fax: 01634 338192 Email: capstonefarmcp@medway.gov.uk Web: www.medway.gov.uk There are 280 acres of ancient woodland, orchards and meadows to explore. Facilities include a visitor centre, cafĂŠ, fishing lake and a full programme of events and workshops. The park is typical of the rolling landscape of the North Downs and many of the woodlands and hedgerows are hundreds of years old. Open: 363 days, closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Food and drink Food for thought… Rochester is Medway’s gourmet hotspot serving local ales, offering specialist shopping and fine restaurants. The restaurant choice is excellent with an outstanding selection of English, Continental and Asian restaurants, plus numerous cafes, tearooms and atmospheric pubs. Outside dining is encouraged during the summer on the historic High Street’s pedestrian areas. When visiting the city’s heritage attractions or after a shopping trip, do make the most of a visit by stopping for lunch, as many places to eat offer special lunchtime menus. If it’s dining on the waterfront that takes your fancy, then a visit to Chatham Maritime is a must. Here you can have a pub lunch overlooking an attractive marina. You can try out Mexican, Chinese or

Bavarian Beerfest The Historic Dockyard Chatham 28 and 29 August 2010 During the August bank holiday weekend the first Anglo Bavarian Style Beer Festival in the UK will be held at The Historic Dockyard Chatham. In keeping with the world famous Oktoberfest the event will feature German beerhall style bench seating and a selection of beer-swilling, foot stomping entertainment starring the UK’s best German Oompah band, The Amazing Bavarian Stompers. The Stompers will be supported by the country’s number one Chas ‘n’ Dave tribute band.

a more traditional meal at one of several places to eat at the Dickens World complex and Chatham Maritime’s new restaurant quarter. After your meal make the most of your afternoon by watching a movie at the Odeon cinema, wander around the cut-price designer shops at Dockside Outlet Centre or just sit by the riverside and watch the boats sail by. There are other places to eat, drink and explore while in Medway. A gentle drive through the more rural parts of the area will take you to picturesque villages and towns, where you will discover family-run

It’s a great chance to sample some traditional Bavarian beers, plus enjoy the fantastic selection of British beers, real ales, ciders, wines of the world, spirits and soft drinks. Try the food court serving a selection of regional delicacies, including bratwurst, hog roast and other mouth watering favourites. Organised by Kent-based Dream Workshop.

pubs specialising in local dishes and Kentish produce. Beer lovers should look out for brews in pubs produced by The Historic Dockyard’s own Nelson Brewery. Up to 100 barrels each week are produced by the brewery. All ales have nautical-themed names that pay

tribute to the surroundings in which they were brewed. If you would like to take home some local produce direct from the supplier to savour or try out in your own recipe, then visit Rochester’s farmers’ market on the third Sunday of the month.

To book phone 01634 338338 or visit www.whatsonmedway.co.uk. For more details about the beer festival visit www.ukbeerfest.com

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Culture

Castle Concerts

Soak up the atmosphere and get involved… Medway has long been the events capital of Kent. The traditional festivals to celebrate Charles Dickens’ connections with the area are world-famous, but are only part of an exciting arts and festival scene, which includes the Sweeps Festival and the Fuse Medway Festival – the region’s leading street arts extravaganza. The Medway calendar of culture begins with the Chinese New Year celebrations organised by the Chinese community. Hundreds of people proudly parade and entertain visitors in the centre of Chatham, dressed in colourful authentic costumes and accompanied by dragons and lions. Chinese New Year

Theatres and art galleries Rochester Art Gallery and Craft Case Medway Visitor Information Centre Ground Floor, 95 High Street, Rochester, Kent ME1 1LX. For details contact the Arts Development Team on Phone: 01634 338319 Email: arts@medway.gov.uk Web: www.medway.gov.uk/arts

The New Arts Centre

Francis Iles Galleries 103 and 104 High Street, Rochester ME1 1LX Phone: 01634 843081 Email: advice@artycat.com Web: www.artycat.com

At the Medway Little Theatre, in Rochester, there are regular performances of a quirky and intimate nature, while a wide range of productions, comedy nights and opera evenings are held at the Britannia Theatre, Dickens World.

The Central Theatre 170 High Street, Chatham ME4 4AS Box Office: 01634 338338 Email: theatres@medway.gov.uk Web: www.medway.gov.uk/theatres

The Brook Theatre Fuse Medway Festival 2009

The thriving and established arts scene in Medway offers a range of arts activities and events with a local, regional, national and international significance. Rochester Art Gallery and Craft Case, on the ground floor of Medway Visitor Information Centre, presents an exciting programme of high-quality contemporary art and craft exhibitions, workshops and events. Occasional exhibitions with a local significance can be found at Eastgate House, Rochester. The New Arts Centre in Chatham, offers a diverse programme of art exhibitions and activities with a community focus, delivered by

272 High Street, Chatham ME4 4BP Phone: 01634 812108 Email: mail@thenac.co.uk Web: www.thenac.co.uk

There is an enticing choice of theatre from the mainstream productions of Chatham’s Central Theatre to the more experimental offerings of The Brook Theatre, also in Chatham.

artists based in Medway. Take in the creative atmosphere over a coffee at The Deaf Cats Coffee Shop and Studios, or see local artists’ work at Nucleus Medway at Dickens World.

Stanley Spencer’s breathtaking Shipbuilding on the Clyde paintings. A range of workshops and lectures on this great English artist will support the exhibition.

The commercial arts scene is highly developed at Rochester High Street’s art and craft galleries, with regular exhibitions, workshops and special events.

In the summer, Medway is able to exploit the settings of its great monuments. Rochester Castle Gardens are home to Medway’s famous Castle Concerts series and open-air theatre can be found at Upnor and Rochester castles and Fort Amhurst. The café culture of Rochester High Street and the new waterfront leisure complex at Chatham Maritime are the perfect places to round off a memorable evening.

In 2010, the Medway culture scene will welcome the new art gallery at No.1 Smithery in The Historic Dockyard Chatham. A stimulating programme of internationally renowned touring exhibitions will begin in July with an exhibition of

Old Town Hall, Chatham, ME4 4SE Box Office: 01634 338338 Email: theatres@medway.gov.uk Web: www.medway.gov.uk/theatres

Medway Little Theatre 256 High Street, Rochester ME1 1HY Phone: 01634 400322 Email: feedback@mlt.org.uk Web: www.mlt.org.uk For information about Fuse Medway Festival contact the Arts Development Team on 01634 338319, email arts@medway.gov.uk or visit www.fusefestival.org.uk

Rochester Sweeps Festival

Fuse Medway Festival 2007

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

F estivals and events

Ghost Ships, Mysteries & Disasters, 23 – 31 October (The Historic Dockyard Chatham)

In the run up to Halloween, this fun family event will celebrate spooky tales of the maritime kind. There’ll be things to make and do, spine-tingling stories and ghostly games for the brave at heart. Phone 01634 823807 or visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Bonfire and Fireworks Night – 6 November

Medieval Merriment

Steam festival

Dickens Festival – 4-6 June

Armed Forces Day – 27 June

(Rochester)

(The Historic Dockyard Chatham)

Through street entertainment, parades, song and dance, journey back to a time that is alive with the life and works of Charles Dickens, who spent five of his childhood years in Medway. He was a national legend when he returned for the last 13 years of his life.

A celebration day following the first national event in 2009, featuring a Marching Band and a Parade through the dockyard. Phone

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

(The Historic Dockyard Chatham)

Phone 01634 823807 or visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Rochester Sweeps Festival – 1-3 May (Rochester)

One of the largest May Day celebrations of its kind in the country. Medway’s annual Sweeps Festival recreates the joy and laughter enjoyed by chimney sweeps at their traditional festival during Victorian times. The festival begins with the Jack-in-the-Green Ceremony, the awakening of a mythical seven-foot-tall character. Celebrations continue in Rochester with a fantastic array of national and international folk bands, parades, stalls and Morris dancing sides. Phone 01634 338141 or visit www.whatsonmedway.co.uk

VE Day Ball– 8 May (7.30pm to midnight)

Phone 01634 823807 or visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Soldiers of the Queen Summer concerts

Soldiers of the Queen: Life in the Victorian Army – 5 & 6 June (Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham)

The life of a soldier in Queen Victoria’s Army goes on display, as military re-enactors display the fighting prowess of the British Empire. Phone 01634 822339 or visit

painting, martial arts demonstrations, arts and crafts stalls and much more.

A spectacular bonfire and firework display…and it’s all for free. Phone 01634

(The Historic Dockyard Chatham)

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

338141 or visit www.whatsonmedway.co.uk

In the newly opened courtyard in No.1 Smithery, for the duration of the school summer holidays, this jamboree is for visitors of all ages with puppet shows, children’s entertainers, arts and crafts, soft play, competitions and spectacular pirate parades. Phone 01634 823807 or visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Siege! – 7 & 8 August (Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham)

The early history of military engineering is one that is often forgotten by our visitors. It is easy to get caught up in all of the fantastic kit on display, the tanks, and the bridges. But where did it all begin? Explore the beginnings of military engineering with this Siege! weekend. Re-enactors from many eras will be laying siege to the Royal Engineers Museum for two days. Will it be able to hold out? Phone 01634 822339 or visit www.remuseum.org.uk

www.remuseum.org.uk

Medieval Merriment – 4 & 5 September

Rebellion – 5 & 6 June

(Rochester Castle)

Discover historic Rochester through the late Middle Ages. A living history event with archery, skirmishes, birds of prey and parades.

(Upnor Castle)

Step back in time to see how Upnor was used during the Kentish uprising of 1648 when the people of Kent rose up against the rule of the Army and Parliament. Re-enactors will portray the Kentish rebels preparing for war. Throughout the day soldiers will be drilling and making bullets, while the gentry make their plans to resist the New Model Army. Visitors will also be able to see displays featuring armour, weapons and artefacts from the period and information on the English Civil wars. Phone 01634 338141 or visit www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

Fuse Medway Festival – 12-26 June (Throughout Medway)

A free celebration of arts and creativity in Medway that is different, diverse and daring. From stunning live street theatre, to site specific and specially commissioned performances. Phone 01634 338319 or visit www.fusefestival.org.uk

(Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham)

Phone 01634 822339 or visit www.remuseum.org.uk

(The Historic Dockyard Chatham)

Get ‘in the mood’ and dance the night away in the historic No. 5 Covered Slip at our dazzling VE Day Ball. A themed evening dance complete with authentic Second World War artefacts and memorabilia. Book early to avoid disappointment! Event prices apply.

Modern Army – 3 and 4 July Join us as we showcase the work of the modern Corps of Royal Engineers. This year, the Museum is joined by 23 Engineer Regiment (Air Assault) who will be on hand to answer questions from the public and show off their kit.

Medway Festival of Steam and Transport – 4 & 5 April Hundreds of spectacular steam and transport exhibits! Vintage cars and classic motorbikes, commercial and military vehicles, steam traction engines and new for 2010 - Fireman Sam and friends - will meet and greet the children and have sing-a-longs with the whole family. Plus side shows, vehicle parades and the distinctive smell of steam. Event prices apply.

01634 823807 or visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

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

Castle Concerts – 14-17 July

Medway Modellers Showcase – 4 & 5 September

(Rochester Castle Gardens)

(Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham)

A fantastic series of concerts featuring big names from the past and present. Status Quo are already confirmed for 14 July and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra will close the series on the Saturday. Past acts include McFly, Van Morrison and The Sugar Babes. Phone 01634 338141 or visit www.whatsonmedway.co.uk

(The Great Lines, Chatham)

Pirate Play Days 24 July – 29 August

Once a year, every model builder’s dream descends on the museum. The Medway Model Club will be joining the Royal Engineers Museum to put on a truly grand show, and a weekend of fun that cannot be missed. Phone 01634 822339 or visit

Heritage Open Days – 9-12 September (Various heritage sites and attractions)

A variety of heritage sites in Medway will open to the public for free for this special weekend. Organised by English Heritage, City of Rochester Society, Medway Council and participating sites. Phone 01634 338141 or visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Salute to the ‘40s – 18 & 19 September (The Historic Dockyard Chatham)

Step back in time for a weekend of nostalgia and Life on the Home Front. Military re-enactors, wartime vehicles, period fashion and an exciting programme of wartime entertainment with humour, music and dance. Around every corner you'll encounter bombsite urchins, ‘spivs’, soldiers and sailors, coppers and Dockyard Mateys. New for 2010 - a trade village, themed street scene and even more entertainment for the whole family.

(Rochester)

Journey back to a Rochester that is alive with the life and works of Charles Dickens. Street entertainment, readings, song and dance will fill the streets that the author explored as a child and in his later years. It includes a candlelit parade, guaranteed snowfall and a carol concert in the afterglow shadows of the magnificent castle and cathedral. Phone 01634 338141 or visit www.whatsonmedway.co.uk

What’s On For information on the events featured on these pages and for others taking place throughout the year, visit Medway Council’s new What’s On website. www.whatsonmedway.co.uk

Dickens World

Lest We Forget – 23 & 24 October

Special events, theatre and opera performances, craft fayres and regular Jongleurs comedy nights take place throughout the year at Dickens World. For more information and bookings visit

(Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham)

www.dickensworld.co.uk

Phone 01634 823807 or visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

As Remembrance Day approaches, we begin to look back to those who gave their lives so we could live free. During the Lest We Forget weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to meet soldiers from the most iconic conflicts of the 20th century. It’s the perfect way to prepare for Remembrance Day. Phone 01634 822339 or visit www.remuseum.org.uk

www.remuseum.org.uk

The Tudors at Upnor – 23 October (Upnor Castle)

Young People’s Concert – 18 July

Will Adams Festival – 11 September

(Rochester Castle Gardens)

(Gillingham)

Local young bands and musicians take to the Castle Concerts stage in a free celebration of home-grown talent.

A one-day festival that celebrates the life and work of Gillingham-born Will Adams, England’s first Samurai. Activities include face

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

Dickensian Christmas – 4 & 5 December

Come and see for yourself the life and times of a Tudor Castle. You may even meet Queen Elizabeth I herself. Phone 01634 338141 or visit. www.whatsonmedway.co.uk

Diggerland Diggerland holds a number of special events throughout the season, please check our website for latest information and updates. www.diggerland.com

2010 Sport events at Medway Park - see page 9 for details.

Bavarian Beerfest – 28 & 29 August at The Historic Dockyard Chatham – see page 17 for details.

Disclaimer: Please note that circumstances can and do change and the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any subsequent amendment. As a charge will apply to some events featured on these pages or the dates shown may change it is advisable to phone or visit websites for further information. Some events at The Historic Dockyard Chatham are not included for return visits with the 12-month ticket but have separate ticketing and pricing arrangements.

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Shopping

Getting to Medway Dockside Outlet Centre

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in storeâ&#x20AC;Ś Medway offers a mixture of shopping experiences that can be found in historic high streets, town centres and modern indoor shopping centres. Step back in time in the ancient cathedral city of Rochester, a place cherished by Charles Dickens. Rochester is unique for the absence of the usual high street names and brands. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a place to admire yesterdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s curios, ranging from rare books that can be found in the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest second-hand book shop, to designer kitchenware, arts and crafts to decorate your home. The speciality shops are a pleasure to browse around. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a chance to buy locally produced goods every third Sunday each month from Rochester farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market. Chatham is in the heart of Medway and the largest of the shopping centres. You can spend the day browsing around the popular stores that can be found on the fully pedestriansed High Street, with a further 70 quality shops to explore in the Pentagon Shopping Centre. AMF Bowling is there if you fancy a break from your shopping trip.

How to reach and get around Medway

Another great shopping experience to discover is the Dockside Outlet Centre at Chatham Maritime. Home to more than 40 leading retailers offering great discounts, Dockside is built within the frame of a Grade II listed building - a former dockyard boiler house. It is next door to a delightful marina, the Dickens World visitor complex, a nine-screen Odeon cinema, bars and restaurants. The new Chatham Quays development is now complete, extending the range of waterside eateries. The town centres of Gillingham, Strood and Rainham serve the local community. Twice-weekly markets take place in Gillingham and Strood town centres. Throughout the year visiting speciality and continental markets can be found in Rainhamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shopping precinct.

Getting to Medway couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be easier; whether you come by car or public transport. Medway is only 30 miles from central London and 40 miles from the Channel Ports and Eurotunnel. By road

There is easy access from London and the Kent coast on the M2/A2 and M20 motorways, linking with the M25 London Orbital. There are direct links from the A2/M2 to Chatham/Gillingham via the A289/Medway Tunnel. Regular National Express coaches run from London Victoria to the area. For more information visit www.nationalexpress.com Rochester High Street

Pentagon Shopping Centre

By air

Medway is just over an hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive from Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heathrow via M25/A2/M2 and can be reached in an hour from Gatwick via M23/M25/A2/M2 and Stansted via M11/M25/A2/M2. By sea/tunnel

The channel ports are only one hour away. Ferry services operate throughout the year from Calais, Dover and Ramsgate and Ostend. Medway can be easily reached via the A2/M2 from these ports. Eurotunnel gives quick access from the continent by car between Calais and Folkestone. Medway can be reached via the M20/A229. Gillingham High Street

Rochester farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market Every third Sunday each month

By rail

Medway has five main rail stations: Strood, Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham and Rainham. All have frequent services from London Victoria and Charing Cross. High-speed trains now also link Medway to Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s St Pancras International in just 35 minutes. Southeastern offers a range of value for money train fares. When travelling with family or friends, ask for a GroupSave ticket where four travel for the price of two adults and up to four kids go for ÂŁ1 each*. No need to pre-book, just turn up on the day and go. Visit southeasternrailway.co.uk * Terms and conditions apply

Explore historic Rochester and Chatham attractions by Arriva

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re visiting friends and family or here on a short break, you can visit the heritage attractions in Rochester, The Historic Dockyard Chatham and Dickens World visitor complex with Arrivaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medway Mainline services 140/141. The Arriva Inner Medway Ticket gives you the flexibility to hop on and off at various places of interest along the line of route and if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re staying in the area for longer, then you can save more if you get a weekly ticket. This service runs every 10 minutes, Monday to Saturday between Rochester and Chatham. Tickets can be bought from the bus drivers or from Medway Visitor Information Centre in Rochester. To visit the Royal Engineers Museum use Arriva Medway Mainline service 182. Buses run every 10 minutes during the main part of the day from Chatham bus station and Gillingham town centre. For more information about Medway Mainline services and all other services provided by Arriva in the Medway area visit www.medwaymainline.co.uk

For fresh local produce at affordable prices direct from farmers visit Rochester farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market. For dates and more information visit www.medway.gov.uk/tourism 22

24 Upnor Castle The Historic Dockyard Chatham St George’s Centre Royal Engineers Museum Fort Amherst The Brook Theatre The Central Theatre Old Brook Pumping Station Restoration House Dickens Swiss chalet Six Poor Travellers’ House Rochester Cathedral Guildhall Museum Rochester Castle Temple Manor Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle Dickens World Diggerland

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Attractions

Key

= Railway line

= Directional arrow to main access roads

= Coach park

= Bicycle parking

= Taxi point

= Rail station

= Pedestrianised area

= Park and ride/Saturday only

= Parking – more than 100 spaces

= Market

= One-way system

= Minor roads / relief roads

= Main access roads

KENT

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE - How to reach and get around Medway MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Hotels, inns, guesthouses, bed and breakfast

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Accommodation

Rooms: 100, all en-suite 4 MILES SOUTH OF ROCHESTER

How to book your accommodation In this guide you’ll find accommodation listed alphabetically under the name of the city, town or village where you wish to stay. Prices given are for bed and breakfast (B&B) per room, per night, unless otherwise indicated. All prices include VAT (at the current rate of 17.5 per cent) and service charges. Once you have chosen where you would like to stay, you can book your room by phone, fax or email (where available) directly with the establishment of your choice. If you wish to book same-night accommodation Medway Visitor Information Centre can do this for you. The centre will charge a refundable 10 per cent of the first night’s tariff. This charge will be deducted from your final bill at the end of your stay. Quality assured All the accommodation in this guide and on our website has been inspected either by the Automobile Association (AA), VisitBritain or has applied for a rating and is awaiting assessment. Hotels and guest accommodation (including B&Bs) are assessed using the same one to five stars criteria. The star rating reflects the overall quality of the experience.

★

Simple, practical, no frills

★★

Well-presented and well-run

★★★

Good level of quality and comfort

★★★★

Excellent standard throughout

★★★★★

Exceptional with degree of luxury

All self-catering accommodation and hostels have been quality assessed and they are also rated from one to five stars.

Key to symbols French spoken Dutch spoken German spoken ^ No smoking establishment o Evening meal by arrangement ˙ Dogs accepted ± Tea/coffee making facilities m Restaurant No smoking rooms available ; Central heating } Alcohol licence

Accessibility Much of the accommodation featured in this guide is able to cater for visitors with a range of disabilities. A number have ground-floor bedrooms. To ensure that your needs can be catered for you, contact the accommodation provider to discuss your requirements before booking. General advice If you experience a problem with accommodation, you should tell the proprietor/manager immediately. He/she should be keen to address your situation. If the problem remains unresolved please write to Quality in Tourism, Security House, Alexandra Way, Ashchurch, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 8NB Tel: 0845 300 6996 Email: qualityintourism@uk.g4s.com Web: www.qualityintourism.com

p > 3 Ò t s 9 ◊ Ω S

Cot available Indoor/outdoor swimming pool Children welcome (minimum age) Building of literary or architectural interest Credit cards accepted TV Phone in bedrooms Ground floor bedroom available Garden Parking Closest rail station

Key to additional symbols - self-catering t s ` D a œ ‡

Linen hire service Linen provided free Laundry facilities Washing machine and drying facilities Dishwasher Microwave in each unit Gas/electricity by meter

T Ç † Í = ‚ ∑

Games room Showers Public payphone Shop on site Chemical waste disposal Entertainment/recreation on park On working farm

;}-p>Òts9Ω MAP REF C5

Chatham ★★★ Hotel RAMADA ENCORE CHATHAM Western Avenue, Chatham Historic Dockyard, Chatham ME4 4NT Tel: 01634 891677 Fax: 01634 895152 Email: reservations@encorechatham.co.uk Web: www.encorechatham.co.uk Ramada Encore Chatham is a fantastic hotel located in the heart of Chatham Maritime. We offer excellent food and drink S Chatham 1 mile and free WiFi in the Hub. All rooms are vibrant, fresh and modern with Wet Rooms, wooden floors, flat screen TVs and tea and coffee making facilities. Come and experience our welcoming hospitality and friendly service.

★★★★★ Gold Award Chatham COLLEGE ROAD B&B 7 College Road, Historic Dockyard, Chatham ME4 4QX Tel/fax: 01634 828436 Contact: Carol & Graham Chambers Email: gmchambers@btopenworld.com Web: www.chathambandb.com Luxury accommodation situated inside the Old Historic Dockyard. Five minutes from Dickens World. Our twin room S Chatham 3/4 mile has a private sitting room for your privacy. 1 Jan-31 Dec Closed Christmas Twin/double £60.00, Single £40.00 Rooms: 3, 2 en-suite, 1 with private bathroom ^±;->t9◊Ω 3/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM MAP REF B5

Chatham ★★★ B&B NORMANDY HOUSE 143 Maidstone Road, Chatham ME4 6JE Tel: 01634 843047 Email: david.rands@blueyonder.co.uk Web: www.bedandbreakfastchatham.co.uk A family run Bed and Breakfast establishment, within a short drive from Chatham and historic Rochester. S Chatham 1/2 mile Open all year except Christmas and New Year. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/Double £45.00-£50.00, Single £25.00-£30.00 Rooms: 3, with guest bathroom ^±;->tΩ 1/2 MILE SOUTH OF CHATHAM MAP REF B5

1 Jan-31 Dec Room rate at weekends from £49.95, Mid-week from £79.95 Rooms: 90 all with en-suite 1 MILE FROM CHATHAM

±m^}->ÒtsΩ MAP REF B5

Chatham ★★ Hotel ST GEORGE HOTEL 7/8 New Road Avenue, Chatham ME4 6BB Tel: 01634 841012 Fax: 01634 812109 Email: reception@george-hotel.co.uk Web: www.george-hotel.co.uk Family run hotel at the heart of Medway. Close to Rochester and Chatham town centres and all local S Chatham 1/4 mile attractions. Within easy reach of all motorways. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £65.00, Single £44.00,Family room £76.00 Rooms: 45, all en-suite ^ ± m ; } - > Ò t s 9Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM MAP REF B5

★★★ B&B Gillingham ABIGAILS 17 The Maltings, Rainham, Gillingham ME8 8JL Tel: 01634 365427 Email: davidjpenfold@talktalk.net Contact: Pamela Penfold Welcoming family establishment. Near major motorways, station. Award winning small water garden. Hearty breakfasts. Colour TV. Off road parking. S Rainham 1/3 mile Concessional rates available. Rural views. Quiet. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin £55.00, Single £28.00, Family £55.00 Rooms: 3, all with en-suite ^± ;>t◊Ω 4 MILES EAST OF CHATHAM MAP REF B5

Chatham ★★★ Guest accommodation THE SHIP & TRADES Maritime Way, Chatham Maritime ME4 3ER Tel: 01634 895200 Fax: 01634 895201 Email: shiptrades@shepherd-neame.co.uk Web: www.shipandtradeschatham.co.uk Converted from a former dockyard building the Ship & Trades enjoys a waterside location with views of the marina. S Chatham 1 mile 11 en-suite bedrooms, bar and separate dining room. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double from £80.00, Single from £60.00 Rooms: 11, all en-suite ±o ;-}>3ÒtsΩ 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 1 MILE FROM CHATHAM / GILLINGHAM MAP REF B5

Gillingham ★★★★ B&B RAMSEY HOUSE 228A Barnsole Road, Gillingham ME7 4JB Tel: 01634 854193 Friendly family home close to A2/M2, Chatham and Rochester. London 50 minutes by train. Quality accommodation. Long-term guests welcome. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/Double £55.00, Single £30.00-£35.00

Whatever your taste or budget, you’ll find accommodation to suit your needs and your pocket.

Star ratings made easy

A place to stay…

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Chatham ★★★★ Hotel BRIDGEWOOD MANOR HOTEL Bridgewood Roundabout, Walderslade Woods, Chatham ME5 9AX Tel: 01634 201333 Fax: 01634 201330 Email: bridgewoodmanor@qhotels.co.uk Web: www.qhotels.co.uk Situated at the edge of historic Rochester with links to the M2 (J3) and the M20 (J6). Modern conference hotel -100 well appointed bedrooms, restaurant, 2 bars, leisure/spa/pool. S Chatham 3 miles 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £75.00-£135.00, Single £125.00

Rooms: 3, 1 with en-suite 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM EDGE OF TOWN CENTRE

S Gillingham 1 mile

^ ± ; > (5) t Ω Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby MAP REF B5

Hotels, inns, guesthouses, bed and breakfast

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

The King Charles Hotel is a privately owned modern hotel, with a cosy restaurant and first class conference and banqueting facilities. We have 98 bedrooms, all with en-suite S Gillingham 1 mile bathrooms, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer, telephone, broadband point and satellite television. We are ideal as a base for exploring South East England and London, and we offer extremely competitive group rates. Please phone for details. We have a civil wedding licence, with three bridal suites available. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £58.00, Single £47.00, Family room from £63.00

Rooms: 98, all en-suite 1 MILE SOUTH OF GILLINGHAM

˙±m;}->Òts9◊Ω MAP REF B5

★★★★ Inn Cooling THE HORSESHOE AND CASTLE Main Road, Cooling, Rochester, Kent ME3 8DJ Tel: 01634 221691 Contact: Kevin or Susan Boyle/ Vanessa Lewis Email: horseshoe.castle@btconnect.com Web: www.horseshoeandcastle.co.uk Rural freehouse with restaurant close to historic Rochester on the Hoo Peninsula with easy access to motorway (M2) and Cooling Castle Barn (500m). Walkers and cyclists welcome. S Higham/Strood 6 miles 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/Double £70.00-£90.00, Single £40.00, Family Room £100.00 Rooms: 1 private bathroom, Coach 4 en-suite ^ atoAcorn ± mWharf } ;Coach - > Park tÒ 9◊Ω 1/4 MILE 5, FROM CHATHAM parking: free nearby 8 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP REF A4

★★ Silver Award B&B Higham FIELD VIEW 32 Walmers Avenue, Higham, Nr Rochester ME3 7EH Tel: 01474 822330 Contact: Hazel Bigwood Email: hazelbigwood@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.field-view.co.uk Comfortable family run B&B with spectacular views over the river Thames. Easy access to A2. Situated on A226 between Rochester and Gravesend. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/Double £50.00, Single £30.00

Rooms: 2, with shared bathroom ^±;t9◊Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 4 MILE FROM ROCHESTER MAP REF B3

★★★ B&B Rochester GUINEA LODGE BED & BREAKFAST 435 Maidstone Road, Rochester ME1 3PQ Tel: 01634 306716 Contact: Barbara and Robin Self contained bungalow attached to family residence, kitchen/diner, double bedroom/lounge, single bedroom en-suite. Continental breakfast. Easy access to Rochester, S Rochester 3 miles motorway and rail links. 7 Jan-23 Dec Twin/double £45.00- £50.00, Single £35.00, both bedrooms £60.00 Rooms: 2, en-suite ^±;>t9◊ 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 3 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP REF B4

★★★ Silver Award B&B Gravesend EASTCOURT OAST Church Lane, Chalk, Nr Gravesend DA12 2NL Tel/Fax: 01474 823937 Email: mary@eastcourtoast.co.uk Contact: Mary & Ian James Comfortable home in quiet location. Ample parking. Rochester 10 mins. Ideal touring Kent/London. Coastal ports 50 mins. Attractions Brands Hatch, Bluewater S Gravesend 2 miles Shopping Mall 15 mins. 1 Jan-24 Dec Twin/double £50.00-£60.00, Single £35.00, Family room £70.00-£75.00 Rooms: 3 ^±;->t◊Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 2 MILES EAST OF GRAVESEND MAP REF A3

★★ Silver Award B&B Rochester CHURCHFIELDS 6 Churchfields Terrace, St Margaret’s Street, Rochester ME1 1TQ Tel: 01634 400679 Email: info@churchfieldsbandb.co.uk Web: www.churchfieldsbandb.co.uk Contact: Siân Fowler Comfortable town-house within five minute walk from historic Rochester. River views. Not suitable for children S Rochester 1/2 mile under 12. Welsh spoken. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin £58.00-£60.00, Single £28.00-£30.00 Rooms: 2 ^ ± ; >(12) t Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 1/4 MILE FROM CENTRE OF ROCHESTER MAP REF B4

Rochester ★★ Metro Hotel MEDWAY MANOR HOTEL 14-16 New Road, Rochester ME1 1BG Tel: 01634 847985 Fax: 01634 815772 Email: info@medwaymanor.co.uk Web: www.medwaymanor.co.uk Contact: Edward Jansz Grade II Listed building. 150 metres from Rochester’s main railway station only 45 minutes from London. Ideal to explore London without paying premium prices. S Rochester 200 yards 1Jan-31Dec Twin/double £62.00, Single £45.00, Family room £80.00 Rooms: 30, all en-suite ˙± ;}->Òts9◊Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 1/4 MILE FROM CITY CENTRE MAP REF B4/5

★★★★ Silver Award B&B Rochester THE COTTAGE 66 Borstal Road, Rochester ME1 3BD Tel: 01634 403888 Contact: Mrs P Spindlow Victorian cottage in quiet location. 10 mins walk from city centre, easy street parking, gluten free diets catered for. Non smoking establishment. 1 Jan-31 Dec Double £38.00, Single £25.00

★★★★ B&B Rochester NORTH DOWNS BARN Bush Road, Cuxton, Nr Rochester ME2 1HF Tel/Fax: 01634 296829 Email: alisonevans14@btinternet.com Web: www.northdownsbarn.co.uk Contact: Alison Evans Spacious converted barn on village edge in beautiful valley on the North Downs Way. Close to M2, M20, S Cuxton 1 mile Rochester, Bluewater and Ebbsfleet. Open all year. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £60.00-£65.00, Single £35.00, Family room £70-£75.00 Bedrooms: 3, 2 en-suite, 1 with private bathroom ^±;->t◊Ω 3 MILES SOUTH WEST OF STROOD MAP REF B4

★★★ Hotel Gravesend INN ON THE LAKE A2, 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 S Gravesend 3 miles establishment. With excellent transport 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 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM rooms having direct access to theCoach lakes. parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby

Higham 1 mile

Rochester 1 mile

Rooms: 1, with private bathroom ^o˙±;->t◊ 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 1/2 MILE SOUTH OF ROCHESTER MAP REF B4/5

Gillingham ★★★ Hotel KING CHARLES HOTEL Brompton Road, Gillingham ME7 5QT Tel: 01634 830303 Fax: 01634 829430 Email: reservations@kingcharleshotel.co.uk Web: www.kingcharleshotel.co.uk

1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/Double £69.50, Single £59.50, Family room from £99.00 ★★ Hotel Rochester GORDON HOUSE HOTEL 91 High Street, Rochester ME1 1LX Tel: 01634 831000 Fax: 01634 847034 Email: info@gordonhousehotel.net Web: www.gordonhousehotel.net Contact: Mei Shome Historic building in central Rochester and ideal for exploring this lovely city. All rooms en-suite and ample parking. Opposite cathedral and close to castle. Full restaurant facilities. S Rochester 1/2 mile 1 Jan-31 Dec Double from £70.00, Single from £60.00, Family room from £85.00

Rooms: 14, 11 en-suite, 3 with private bathroom ± ^ m ; } - > 3 Ò t s ◊ Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby CENTRE OF ROCHESTER MAP REF B4

Rochester ★★ Guest house RIVERVIEW LODGE 88 Borstal Road, Rochester ME1 3BD Contact: Mr Sheikh Tel: 01634 842241/07956 279628 Email:msheikh97@aol.com Web: www.riverviewlodge-rochester.co.uk Pleasant, clean and comfortable accommodation, friendly atmosphere. Panoramic river views, walking distance historic centre. Easy access M2/M20/M25/rail. Parking, wireless S Rochester 1 mile internet. Substantial continental breakfast. Cards accepted. 1Jan-31Dec Twin/double £47.00, Single £22.00-£32.00, Family room £57.00-£67.00 Rooms: 16, 9 with en-suite ^ ± ; - > (1) 3 Ò t 9 ◊ Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 3/4 MILE FROM ROCHESTER MAP REF B4/5

Cliffe Woods, nr Rochester ★★★★ Silver Award B&B ORCHARD COTTAGE 11 View Road, Cliffe Woods, Rochester ME3 8JQ Tel:01634 222780 Email: enquiries@orchardcottagekent.co.uk Web: www.orchardcottagekent.co.uk Self contained cottage overlooking orchards. Guest TV/ lounge and breakfast rooms. Easy access motorways. Ideal for business, families, wedding guests and S Higham 1 3/4 miles exploring the Kent countryside. 1 Jan-31 Dec Double/Twin £65.00-£75.00, Single £40.00-£45.00, Family room £80.00 Rooms: 2, with private bathroom ^±;->◊Ω 3 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP REF A4

Rochester ★★★★ B&B GREYSTONES 25 Watts Avenue, Rochester ME1 1RX Tel: 01634 409565 Email: greystonesrochester@googlemail.com Web: www.greystonesbandb.org.uk Contact: Bill or Bev Comfortable quiet Victorian family run B&B within easy walking distance of Rochester castle, cathedral and High St. Beautfully appointed rooms, wireless internet available in each. S Rochester 1/2 mile 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £60.00- £70.00, Single from £38.00, Family from £85.00 Rooms: 8, 3 en-suite, 1 private bathroom ^±;->t9◊Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 1/2 MILE FROM ROCHESTER MAP REF B4

Rochester ★★ Hotel THE ROYAL VICTORIA & BULL HOTEL 16-18 High Street, Rochester ME1 1PX Tel: 01634 846266 Fax: 01634 832312 Email: enquiries@rvandb.co.uk Web: www.rvandb.co.uk A 400 year old coaching inn in the centre of historic Rochester. Ideal for visiting the city and surrounding area. Superb new bar and restaurant. S Rochester 1/2 mile 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £57.50-£72.50, Single £52.50-£57.50, Family room £79.50-£90.00. Rooms: 24 en-suite, 4 with private bathrooms ±m o Wharf ; }Coach - > Park 3 Ònearby tsΩ 1/4 MILE 28, FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn CENTRE OF ROCHESTER MAP REF B4

˙±m;}->Òts◊Ω MAP REF B3

Rooms: 80, all en-suite 3 MILES FROM GRAVESEND

★★★ Guest house Gillingham THE BALMORAL 59 Balmoral Road, Gillingham, Kent ME7 4NT Tel: 01634 853682 Email: bookings@thebalmoral-guesthouse.co.uk Newly refurbished and under new management. The Balmoral offers comfort and affordibity in the heart of Medway. Ideal for work and leisure. Longer stays welcome. S Gillingham nearby 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/Double from £36.00, Single from £28.00. Family Rooms from £42.00 Rooms: 10 all with en-suite Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach ^Ò ;>◊ 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Park±nearby GILLINGHAM TOWN CENTRE MAP REF B5

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Hotels, inns, guesthouses, bed and breakfast

Self-catering

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

★★★★ B&B Rochester WINDWHISTLE River View Drive, Chattenden Farm, Lodge Hill Lane, Rochester ME3 8NY Tel: 01634 252859 Email: windwhistlebandb@hotmail.co.uk Contact: Kevin and Gill Beale Friendly family atmosphere in rural surroundings. Panoramic views of Rochester and river Medway. Rochester S Strood 2 1/2 miles 3 miles, Canterbury 40 minutes, London 50 minutes. 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £59.00, Single £35.00, Family room £75.00 Rooms: 1, large room with private shower ^o˙±;>t9◊Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 3 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP REF B4

★★★ Hostel Doddington PALACE FARM HOSTEL Palace Farm, Down Court Road, Doddington, Sittingbourne, Kent ME9 0AU Tel: 01795 886200 Contact: Liz & Graham Cuthbert Email: info@palacefarm.com Web: www.palacefarm.com Flexible comfortable accommodation with private ensuite rooms. Continental breakfast inc. Ideal for singles, families and groups. S Teynham 4.5miles Situated in village with pub. Wifi internet available. 1 Jan-31 Dec from £15.00 per night. Rooms: ^>± Ònearby -9∑ 1/4 MILE 6FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park

Rochester ★★ B&B THE SUNDIAL 18 Ranscombe Close, Strood, Rochester ME2 2PB Tel: 01634 721831 Email: sean@company8234.freeserve.co.uk Very comfortable quality accommodation with attractive courtyard. Friendly atmosphere. TV with freeview channels. Close to M2/20 motorways. S Strood 2 miles Local restaurants and entertainment centre close by. 1 Jan-31 Dec Double from £50.00, Single from £25.00 Rooms: 3, 1 with en-suite ± >-t◊Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 2 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP REF B4

★★★★ B&B Strood THE WHITE COTTAGE 41 Rede Court Road, Strood, Rochester ME2 3SP Tel: 01634 719988 Contact: Mrs V Morris Private area in picturesque cottage bungalow. Spacious and clean rooms. Pleasant gardens and all guests have own bathroom. Excellent breakfast. Very friendly atmosphere. S Strood 1 1/2 miles 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £45.00, Single £26.00, Family room price on application Rooms: 2, with private bathroom ^ ± ; > (6 months) t 9 ◊ Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 2 MILES NORTH OF STROOD MAP REF B4

★★★★ Self-catering Snodland Sandhole Barn C/o South Cottage, 235 Sandy Lane, Sandhole, Snodland, ME6 5LG Tel: 01634 241988 Email: me.scutt@btinternet.com Comfortable, well-equipped ground floor accommodation with private garden and parking. Quiet location near Leybourne Lakes, ideal for walkers and water sports. S Snodland 1 mile Rochester 7 miles. Excellent base for touring. Low season 3 nights £300, 7 nights £400 Peak season 7 nights £500 Accommodation: Unit sleeps Coach 2-4 persons s ` Park t œnearby DaÇ 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM parking: free at Acorn Wharf^Coach 7 MILES FROM ROCHESTER MAP REF C4

★★★★ Silver Award B&B Rochester SALISBURY HOUSE 29 Watts Avenue, Rochester ME1 1RX Tel: 01634 400182 Contact: Roger and Janet Reader Victorian family house within easy walking distance of castle, cathedral,historic High Street and station. Large comfortable well appointed rooms. S Rochester 1/2 mile 1 Jan-31 Dec Twin/double £65.00, Single £40.00, Family room £80.00 Rooms: 2, both en-suite ^±;->t◊Ω 1/4 MILE FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby 1/2 MILE FROM CITY CENTRE MAP REF B4/5

Self-catering accommodation Avery Way, Allhallows,Rochester Kent ME3 9QD Tel: 01634 270385 Fax: 01634 270081 Email: lisa.michalowicz@bourneleisure.co.uk Web: www.haven.com Low season (exc. School holidays and banks Holidays) 3 nights £165.00-£345.00, 7 nights £235.00-£435.00 Peak season 3 nights £369.00-£415.00, 7 nights £559.00-£615.00

Allhallows is Medway's best kept secret. A picturesque Park with stunning views over the Thames Estuary, easy to get to from London, this Park has a real “let's get away and relax” feel. Allhallows is the perfect way to spend time with family/friends– There really is something for everyone young and old alike. Historic Rochester and Canterbury are tempting day trips nearby although with so much to do on the Park you may struggle to fit it all in!

Rochester STABLE COTTAGES

★★★ Self-catering Rochester THE CHIMES 6 Hawkwood Close, Rochester ME1 1HW Tel: 01634 842923 Email: normachambers@hotmail.co.uk Contact: Norma Chambers The Chimes is a modern non-smoking mews cottage, moments away from Rochester High Street and 3 minutes S Rochester 100 yards from Rochester Station. There is a large modern living room, bathroom, kitchen, double bedroom and optional sofa bed. Off provided. 1/4street MILEparking FROM isCHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn Wharf Coach Park nearby The Chimes is an ideal base for all Rochester festivals. 1 Jan-31 Dec £65.00 per night. 3 nights £180, 7nights £360

Allhallows ★★★★ Caravan Holiday Park ALLHALLOWS LEISURE PARK

12 MILES FROM CHATHAM

★★★★

Fenn Croft, Newlands Farm Road, St Mary Hoo, Rochester ME3 8QS Tel: 01634 272439 Email: info@stable-cottages.com Web: www.stable-cottages.com Contact: Debbie Symonds 1 Jan-31 Dec Small cottages 7 nights £300.00-£550.00, 3 nights £225.00-£350.00. Large cottages 7 nights £600.00-£1,000.00, 3 nights £350.00-£475.00

MAP REF C7

Cliffe ★★★★ Self-catering GREBE COTTAGE 27 Thatchers Lane, Cliffe, Nr Rochester ME3 7TN Tel: 01959 524205 Fax: 01959 523523 Email: bucklandlake@hotmail.com Web: www.grebeholiday.co.uk Modern well equipped three bedoom cottage with extensive views, sleeps six. Gas central heating, garage and garden. Open all year. Situated in Dickens country near historic Rochester, S Higham 4 miles Saxon Shore Way, River Thames and Medway. Wildfowl reserves, walking, cycling, touring, diving and fishing. Easy access A2/M2, Canterbury and London. Sorry, no dogs allowed. Low season £275.00 per week. Peak season £550.00 per week

a œ Ç D >(3) s ^ t

1 cottage for 6 people 6 MILES FROM ROCHESTER

MAP REF A4

Self-catering cottages These charming oak beamed cottages are fully central heated, luxuriously furnished idyllically set in twenty 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 the exclusive use of cottage occupants. Tucked away down a private lane this secure site with electric gates offers peace of mind rarely found. Conveniently located with easy access to all motorways and ports. Situated 15 minutes from 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 for walking, 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, bathroom with 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.

Strood 9 miles 1 cottage for 2 people CENTRE OF ROCHESTER ★★★ Hostel Chatham YHA MEDWAY Capstone Road, Gillingham ME7 3JE Tel: 0870 7705964 Fax: 0845 371 9649 Email: medway@yha.org.uk Web: www.yha.org.uk Delightful converted oast house opposite country park. Ideal for families. Home cooked meals made using local produce. Canterbury 25miles, London 40 minutes by train. 1 Jan-31 Dec Adults from £13.95per adult per night

^sD>tœÇΩ MAP REF B4

S Chatham 2 1/2 miles S

170 Caravans sleeping 6-8 people 10 MILES FROM ROCHESTER

-˙pts`DœtTÍ†‚}^ MAP REF A6

Rooms: for 2-5 people - sCoach ` tPark H œnearby }Ç† 1/4 MILE 12 FROM CHATHAM Coach parking: free at Acorn ^ Wharf 2 1/2 MILES FROM CHATHAM MAP REF C5

6 cottages for 5-8 people 6 MILES FROM ROCHESTER

Strood 6 miles -˙ps`DœtTÇ MAP REF A5

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Bienvenue dans la Medway Medway – Rochester, ville historique et Chatham, ville maritime

Nouveautés pour 2010 Smithery No.1 – ‘Historic Dockyard’, Chatham Un nouvel espace culturel ouvrira en 2010 dans la ‘No. 1 Smithery’ qui a été merveilleusement restaurée, comprenant des maquettes maritimes de classe mondiale, des objets d’art et autres provenant de deux musées nationaux, plus une exposition des oeuvres de l’artiste Stanley Spencer. Consultez : www.thedockyard.co.uk

Bienvenue dans la Medway, destination touristique en plein développement, une des plus dynamiques du sud-est de l’Angleterre, située à 48km seulement de Londres. Rochester, ville historique Rochester est célèbre par ses liens avec le romancier Charles Dickens, qui vécut dans la région dans son

enfance et y revint plus tard quand il était un auteur à succès. Dickens passa la période la plus impressionnable de son enfance dans la région, et la ville historique de Rochester est celle qui inspira le plus le romancier et qui figure plus que toute autre ville en dehors de Londres dans ses oeuvres. En vous promenant le long de la Grand-rue de Rochester, vous verrez les bâtiments qu’il décrivit. Visitez aussi la salle de découverte de Dickens du musée du Guildhall pour en savoir plus sur sa vie et ses oeuvres. Les autres sites à visiter à Rochester incluent la deuxième cathédrale d’Angleterre par l’ancienneté, le magnifique Château de Rochester, l’un des exemples d’architecture normande les mieux conservés du pays, et deux immeubles historiques figurant dans les récits de Dickens, la Maison des Six Pauvres Voyageurs et Restoration House.

Chatham, ville maritime La zone maritime de Chatham est actuellement potentiellement un site du Patrimoine mondial. De nombreux navires célèbres furent construits dans le chantier naval historique de Chatham, dont le navire amiral de Nelson, le HMS Victory. De nos jours le chantier naval est un site touristique fascinant où sont présentés 400 ans de patrimoine maritime dans plusieurs galeries, trois navires historiques et une corderie avec des démonstrations quotidiennes des méthodes traditionnelles par des ouvriers en costume d’époque. A côté du chantier naval se trouve le complexe fantastique de ‘Dickens World’. Il s’agit d’une attraction sous couvert, basée sur la vie, les livres et l’époque de Charles Dickens. Le visiteur y accomplit un voyage fascinant à travers le monde de Dickens en remontant dans l’Angleterre du 19e siècle et découvrant ses rues, ses bruits et même ses odeurs.

‘Shopping’ dans la Medway La Grand-rue de Rochester est unique par son absence de chaînes de commerces et son abondance de magasins familiaux, y compris boutiques d’art et d’artisanat, de souvenirs, de bijoux et librairies. La Grand-rue de Chatham est le plus grand centre commercial de la région et on y trouve les principales chaînes de magasins le long de la rue piétonnière et dans le spacieux centre commercial couvert, le ‘Pentagon’. Pour les bonnes affaires en matière de marques de créateurs en confection, il y a le centre de magasins d’usines, le ‘Dockside Factory Outlet Centre’ à Chatham Maritime.

Medway Park – Centre régional d’excellence sportive Le ‘Medway Park’ de Gillingham, est le nouveau centre d’entraînement sportif de la région qui a coûté £11millions. C’est également un centre d’entraînement homologué pour 13 sports olympiques et 8 sports paralympiques, et l’équipe des Jeux paralympiques de Barbade a déjà signé un accord pour sa préparation pour les Jeux de 2012 dans la Medway. Consultez: www.medwaypark.com Cathédrale de Rochester Histoires anciennes et inconnues L’histoire ancienne de la cathédrale reprend vie dans de nouvelles expositions interactives, révélant les histoires inconnues contenues dans ses vieilles pierres. Les visiteurs explorent la cathédrale avec des guides audio et des dépliants, traduits en plusieurs langues. Consultez: www.rochestercathedral.org

recevrez tous conseils sur les hébergements mentionnés en pages 26-31 et des renseignements sur les endroits à visiter et les choses à voir et à faire. Vous trouverez un plan d’accès à la Medway en pages 24 & 25. Pour tous autres renseignements et assistance, contactez: Medway Visitor Information Centre 95 High Street , Rochester, Kent ME1 1LX Tel +44 (0) 1634 338141 / Fax +44 (0) 1634 847891 Email visitor.centre@medway.gov.uk Web www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

A votre agenda pour ne pas les manquer! Vous trouverez ci-dessous quelquesuns uns des événements clés se déroulant dans la Medway. Pour plus de manifestations et tous renseignements, voir pages 20 & 21 ou visiter: www.whatsonmedway.co.uk Medway – Transports à vapeur (The Historic Dockyard Chatham) – 4 & 5 avril

Rochester Sweeps Festival (fête des ramoneurs) – 1er-3 mai

Festival Dickens (Rochester) – 4-6 juin

Concerts au Château (Rochester Castle) – 14-17 juillet

Siège! (Musée des ‘Royal Engineers’ – Musée des Sapeurs) – 7 & 8 août

Folies médiévales (Château de Rochester) – 4 & 5 septembre

Préparez votre visite Le Centre d’Information pour les Visiteurs de la Medway est votre premier point de contact. Vous y

Noël de Dickens (Rochester) – 4 & 5 décembre

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

Willkommen in Medway Medway – Das historische Rochester und das maritime Chatham

paralympische Sportarten – das Paralympic Team von Barbados hat bereits den Vertrag unterzeichnet und wird hier in Medway für die Sommer-Paralympics 2012 trainieren. Besuchen Sie die Webseite www.medwaypark.org.uk

Willkommen in Medway, dem Reiseziel in Englands Südosten, das zu den selbstbewusstesten und entwicklungsfreudigsten überhaupt gehört und nur 48 km vom Zentrum Londons entfernt liegt. Das historische Rochester Rochester ist berühmt für seine Beziehung zum Romancier Charles Dickens, der als Kind in der Region lebte und später als erfolgreicher Schriftsteller zurückkehrte. Dickens verbrachte die Zeit seiner Kindheit, die ihn wohl am stärksten beeinflusste, in der Gegend, und die historische Stadt Rochester inspirierte ihn so sehr, dass er sie in seinen späteren Werken wohl stärker verewigte als irgendeine andere Stadt Großbritanniens – vielleicht mit Ausnahme Londons. Auf einem gemütlichen Spaziergang über Rochesters High Street können Sie all die Gebäude entdecken, über die er geschrieben hat. Im Dickens’ Room des Guildhall Museums erhalten Sie die Gelegenheit, mehr über Leben und Werk des berühmten Schriftstellers zu erfahren. Zu den anderen Sehenswürdigkeiten, die es in Rochesters zu besuchen lohnt, gehören die zweitälteste Kathedrale Englands, die beeindruckende Burg

von Rochester - eines der wohl am besten erhaltenen Beispiele normannischer Architektur des Landes - sowie zwei historische Gebäude, die in Charles Dickens’ Romanen 'The Six Poor Travellers House' und 'Restoration House' eine Rolle spielen. Maritime Chatham Die maritime Umgebung von Chatham steht kurz davor, als UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe anerkannt zu werden. Viele berühmte Schiffe wurden in der historischen Werft von Chatham gebaut, darunter die HMS Victory, Lord Nelsons Flaggschiff. Heute ist die Werft zu einer faszinierenden Besucherattraktion geworden, in der es über 400 Jahre maritimes Erbe zu entdecken gilt: in mehreren Ausstellungen, auf drei historischen Schiffen und in der alten Seilerei mit täglichen Vorführungen, bei denen die Ausführenden in zeitgenössischer Kleidung das alte Handwerk der Tauherstellung zeigen. An die historische Werft

grenzt der aufregende neue Besucherkomplex Dickens World an. Diese Allwetterattraktion widmet sich dem Leben, Werk und Zeitalter von Charles Dickens. Besucher werden auf eine beeindruckende Zeitreise durch das Leben des Schriftstellers geführt und erleben das viktorianische England beim Schlendern durch die Straßen des 19. Jahrhunderts mit all seinen Geräuschen und Gerüchen. Einkaufsvergnügen in Medway Die High Street von Rochester ist gerade wegen der Abwesenheit der üblichen großen Ladenketten so einzigartig. Statt ihrer gibt es individuelle Läden in Familienbesitz, die Kunst und Kunsthandwerk, Souvenirs, Schmuck oder Bücher anbieten. Chathams High Street bietet dagegen ein riesiges Einkaufsangebot, hier finden Sie alle wichtigen Ladenketten zusammen in der Fußgängerzone oder im Pentagon-Einkaufszentrum. Attraktive Rabatte auf Designer-

Mode erhalten Sie im Dockside Factory Outlet Centre im Chatham Maritime.

Neu in 2010 Smithery No.1 - The Historic Dockyard Chatham Ein neuer Veranstaltungsort für kulturelle Ereignisse wird 2010 eröffnet – das wunderbar renovierte No.1 Smithery mit seinem Angebot an erstklassigen Modellschiffen, Kunst und Ausstellungsobjekten aus zwei Nationalen Museen und der Stanley Spencer Kunstausstellung. Besuchen Sie die Webseite www.thedockyard.co.uk Medway Park – Ein regionales Zentrum für den Spitzensport Der Medway Park in Gillingham ist die neue Trainingsstätte für Spitzensport in der Region, die für 11 Mio. £ erstellt wurde. Sie dient auch als anerkannte Trainingsstätte für 13 olympische und acht

Rochesters Kathedrale jahrhundertealte Geheimnisse Eine interaktive Ausstellung lässt die faszinierende Geschichte der Kathedrale lebendig werden und lüftet dabei so manches Geheimnis der alten Gemäuer. Die Besucher gehen mit einem Audioguide und einer Broschüre, die in mehreren Sprachen verfügbar ist, auf Entdeckungsreise. Besuchen Sie die Webseite www.rochestercathedral.org Für die Planung Ihres Besuches Planen Sie das Medway Visitor Information Centre in Rochester als erste Anlaufstelle Ihrer Reise ein. Hier berät man Sie gerne zu allen Fragen über Sehenswürdigkeiten und Aktivitäten sowie zu allen Unterkunftsangeboten, die Sie auf den Seiten 26-31 finden. Die Landkarten auf den Seiten 24 und 25 zeigen Ihnen die Anreise nach Medway.

Die wichtigsten Veranstaltungen für Ihren Kalender! Im Folgenden finden Sie eine kleine Auswahl von Veranstaltungen, die in Medway stattfinden. Weitere Veranstaltungen und Informationen finden Sie auf den Seiten 20 und 21 oder unter www.whatsonmedway.co.uk Medway Steam and Transport (The Historic Dockyard Chatham) – 4. & 5. April – Dampfmaschinen und Lokomotiven

Rochester Sweeps Festival 1.-3. Mai – Schornsteinfegerfestival in Rochester

Dickens Festival (Rochester) – 4.-6. Juni – Dickens-Festival

Castle Concerts

Wenn Sie weitere Informationen und Hilfe benötigen, wenden Sie sich gerne an: Medway Visitor Information Centre 95 High Street Rochester Kent ME1 1LX Tel +44 (0) 1634 338141 / Fax +44 (0) 1634 847891 Email visitor.centre@medway.gov.uk Web www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

(Rochester Castle) – 14.-17. Juli – Konzertreihe in der Burg

Siege! (Royal Engineers Museum) – 7. & 8. August Historische Nachstellung der Belagerung

Medieval Merriment (Rochester Castle) – 4. & 5. September Mittelalterliche Unterhaltung in der Burg

Dickensian Christmas (Rochester) – 4. & 5. Dezember – Weihnachten wie zu Dickens’ Zeiten

MEDWAY 2010 VISITOR GUIDE

THEHISTORIC

DOCKYARD

Mix business with leisure at Rochester Hotel facilities include: heated indoor pool, spa, steam & sauna room, gymnasium, fitness assessments, treatment rooms and tennis court.

D ATE SITU HE IN T IC OR HIST YARD K DOC

CHATHAM

IT’S A

8 conference rooms, many of which are centred around the hotel’s classic courtyard. An Event Manager to ensure 100% commitment, efficiency and peace of mind, with added flexibility.

OTELS BRIDGEWOOD MANOR ####

Bridgewood Roundabout, Walderslade Woods, Chatham, Kent ME5 9AX Phone: 01634 201333 Fax: 01634 201330 E-mail: bridgewoodmanorevents@qhotels.co.uk

www.QHotels.co.uk

ADVENTURE SEE HISTORY: BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS The largest concentration of iconic buildings, historic ships, museum galleries and attractions in the UK. Events throughout the year.

& DON’T MISS

Open Tuesday to Sunday. Free Admission

AT CHATHAM SINCE HMS VICTORY SUMMER 2010

Guildhall Museum, High Street, Rochester, Kent ME1 1PY Phone: 01634 848717 Email: guildhall.museum@medway.gov.uk www.medway.gov.uk/tourism Registered Charity No. 292101. Fully Accredited Museum

thedockyard.co.uk or call 01634 823807