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Chatham has a rich naval history, having built ships for the Royal Navy for over four centuries. The shipbuilding activity ceased in the 1980s, but Chatham has since reinvented itself as a maritime heritage destination. The neighbouring town of Rochester also shares a military past. Although neither town offers resort amenities or beaches, they are both worth a visit for their maritime heritage.
For information on Chatham accommodation options and attractions, refer to local listings for hotels, guest houses, and cottages. Chatham boasts the Historic Dockyard, which stands as Europe's most significant maritime heritage destination. The 80-acre site, dating back more than 400 years, was one of Britain's most crucial naval bases. It now showcases warships, exhibitions, and some of the country's best naval architecture.
The Historic Dockyard features three warships: a destroyer, a submarine, and a Victorian-era sloop. Additionally, it offers various displays that trace the history of the yard. Visitors can even observe men creating rope in the traditional manner at the Ropery.
Rochester lies on the main route to London from the Channel ports and on the banks of the River Medway. Its strategic location led the Romans to build a fort here over 2000 years ago. William the Conqueror also recognized the town's significance, causing him to construct the existing castle shortly after his victory at Hastings. The castle underwent enhancements over the next century, resulting in the imposing structure that exists today.
Rochester Castle is among the best-preserved and finest examples of Norman architecture in England. The castle's large keep, one of the tallest in the country, stands 113 feet high, 70 feet square and has walls up to 12 feet thick.
Rochester is also home to England's second-oldest cathedral, established in 604AD, which has been a place of pilgrimage for over 1,400 years. The town is also famous as the home of Charles Dickens, who lived in the town for 12 years and was born in Chatham in 1817. An exhibition of his works can be found in the town.
Whether your preferred activity is sunbathing or something more strenuous, you'll likely find it at the coast. Activities range from gentle strolls to the next bay, swimming and snorkelling, or more energetic pursuits like sailing, surfing, windsurfing, and kite sailing. For listings of attractions, refer to local resort pages.
For details of local pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops, check the listings section. Future updates will include restaurants and shops.
Feature articles about the coastline and news items about life in the coastal area will be provided in this section. User contributions are welcome.
A gallery of images featuring the coastal area, the towns of Chatham and Rochester, and their attractions will be added here. Stay tuned.