Let's jump straight in - your friendly local electrician's guide to the local areas of Rochester and Chatham!
If you're looking for some fun and interesting things to do in Chatham and Rochester, you've come to the right place. As a local electrician, I know the area well and I'm happy to share some of my favourite spots with you. Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities, historical attractions, scenic walks or delicious food, you'll find something to suit your taste in these two charming towns. Here are some of the best things to do in Chatham and Rochester, according to me!
Family Fun
Rochester Airport
Hold right up there! Don't just scroll past! You do know the airport has a cafe on-site that is open to the public?
I could imagine a lot of kids would love an hour or two of watching planes, especially the more retro ones! And not just planes either. Glider, anyone? There's a lot of history in Rochester Airport and it'd be such a shame to drive past and never get to take a look inside.
Odeon Cinema, Chatham Dockside
If you're in the mood for some big screen entertainment, head to the Odeon Cinema at Chatham Dockside. I don't need to tell you what a cinema does. This modern multiplex cinema shows the latest movies in 2D and 3D. You can also enjoy some snacks and drinks at the cinema bar or the Costa Coffee shop. The cinema is located at the Dockside Outlet Centre, where you can also find a variety of shops, restaurants and leisure facilities.
Kid Zone, Rochester (Maidstone Road)
For some indoor fun, take your kids to Kid Zone, a large soft play centre in Rochester. Kid Zone has three levels of play equipment, including slides, tunnels, ball pits, climbing frames and more. There's also a separate area for toddlers and babies (which we rate quite highly, very sensory), as well as a cafe for parents to relax and watch their kids have fun. Kid Zone is open every day from 9:30 am to 6 pm and is suitable for children up to 12 years old.
Lordswood Ten Pin Bowling & Snooker Centre
Another great place for family fun is Lordswood Ten Pin Bowling & Snooker Centre. This centre has 16 bowling lanes with automatic scoring and bumpers, as well as a snooker hall with 12 full-size tables. You can also enjoy some arcade games, pool tables, air hockey and more. The centre has a licensed bar and a snack bar serving hot and cold food and drinks. Lordswood Ten Pin Bowling & Snooker Centre is open every day from 10 am to midnight.
Diggerland
If you're looking for something different and exciting, check out Diggerland, a theme park where you can ride and drive real diggers and other plant. Diggerland has mini diggers, giant diggers, dump trucks, skid steers and more. Diggerland is open from February to November on weekends and school holidays from 10 am to 5 pm. For an extra surprise, try it in the winter months! (Yes, it is in Strood but we just had to stretch the imagination and pull it in. After all, Strood & Hoo does come under Rochester!)
If you visit Diggerland in the winter months, you might be in for a special treat. Diggerland sometimes hosts special events during this time of year, such as Christmas parties, fireworks displays and winter wonderland experiences. You can also enjoy some festive food and drinks at the park's cafe or shop for some souvenirs at the gift shop.
Chatham Town Football Club
If you're a fan of football, you might want to catch a game of Chatham Town FC, the local semi-professional team. Chatham Town FC plays in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division and has a loyal fan base. You can watch their home games at the Bauvill Stadium on Maidstone Road (Chatham), which has a capacity of 4,000 spectators. The stadium also has a clubhouse with a bar and a function room.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
If you are looking for a scenic and historic destination in Kent, you can't go wrong with Chatham and Rochester. These two towns are rich in culture, heritage and natural beauty, offering something for everyone. Whether you are interested in military history, maritime heritage, literary landmarks or stunning landscapes, you will find plenty of things to do in Chatham and Rochester.
Fort Amherst
One of the most impressive attractions in Chatham is Fort Amherst, a massive fortification built in the 18th century to protect the naval dockyard from French invasion. You can explore the fort's tunnels, gun emplacements, barracks and gardens, and learn about its fascinating history through guided tours, exhibitions and events. Fort Amherst also hosts regular re-enactments, ghost hunts and outdoor cinema screenings, making it a fun and exciting place to visit. Don't forget to check out the Halloween events they hold there - not for the faint hearted!
Fort Luton
If you are looking for a more secluded and peaceful attraction, you can head to Fort Luton, a hidden gem in Chatham. This Victorian fort was built in the 19th century as part of the Chatham Lines, a series of fortifications that encircled the main land routes into Chatham Dockyard. The fort is now a volunteer-run heritage site that offers guided tours, open days and events throughout the year. You can admire the architecture of the fort, see its original guns and enjoy its tranquil surroundings.
Royal Engineers Museum
One of the most popular museums in Kent is the Royal Engineers Museum, which showcases the history of the Corps of Royal Engineers and their role in engineering, warfare and innovation. The museum has a vast collection of artefacts, ranging from weapons and vehicles to medals and uniforms. You can also see exhibits on topics such as bridges, explosives, tunnelling, communications and more. The museum is a great place to learn about the achievements and contributions of the Royal Engineers to British history and society. Not to be missed!
Guildhall Museum
Another museum that you can visit in Rochester is the Guildhall Museum, which is housed in a beautiful 17th century building that was once the seat of local government. The museum tells the story of Rochester from prehistoric times to the present day, featuring displays of archaeology, pottery, paintings, costumes and more. You can also see a scale model of Rochester as it was in 1640, a reconstruction of Charles Dickens' study and a stunning 18th century painted staircase. (Charles Dickens' house isn't far from here!)
Chatham Dockyard
Last but not least, one of the must-see attractions in Chatham is the Chatham Dockyard, a former naval base that was once one of the most important shipbuilding sites in the world. The dockyard is now a maritime museum that offers a unique insight into Britain's naval history and heritage. You can explore three historic warships, see working steam engines and rope-making machines, visit galleries and exhibitions on shipbuilding and naval life, and enjoy various activities and events throughout the year.
Wandering Walks
If you're looking for a relaxing and scenic way to explore Chatham and Rochester, why not try one of the many wandering walks that are available in the area? You can enjoy the beauty of nature, the history of the towns, and the charm of the local shops and cafes along the way. Some of the most popular wandering walks are:
Rochester Castle & Rochester High Street
If you're a fan of history and culture, you can't miss visiting Rochester Castle and Rochester High Street. Rochester Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England, dating back to the 11th century. You can climb the 113-foot-high keep, which offers panoramic views of the town and the river. You can also learn about the castle's turbulent past, including the famous siege of 1215.
Rochester High Street is a delight for shoppers and sightseers alike. You can find a variety of independent shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants, offering everything from antiques and books to fashion and food. You can also admire the architecture and monuments that line the street, such as the Guildhall Museum, the Corn Exchange, and the Statue of Dickens.
And it gets better - A Nice long walk along the esplanade for great sights of the waterfront
Rochester Esplanade
If you want to enjoy some fresh air and stunning views of the waterfront, you should take a nice long walk along the esplanade. The esplanade is a paved path that runs along the banks of the River Medway, from Chatham to Rochester. You can see boats, both moored and sailing by, as well as birds and, if you're lucky, some other small animals. You can also stop at some of the attractions along the way, such as Fort Amherst, Sun Pier, and Rochester Bridge.
Capstone Park
Capstone Park is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts and families. It is a 114-hectare park that offers a range of activities and facilities for all ages and abilities. You can explore the woodlands, meadows, lakes, and hills on foot or by bike. You can also try some of the sports and games available at the park, such as golf, fishing, skateboarding, and orienteering. Or you can simply relax and have a picnic at one of the many benches and tables. Be under no illusion - this is a large area not just confined to the pond and play park.
BlueBell Hill
BlueBell Hill is a hill that overlooks the Medway Valley. It is famous for its spectacular display of bluebells in springtime, when thousands of these flowers carpet the woodland floor. If you're feeling adventurous you can walk all the way out to Wouldham. You can also see other wildflowers and wildlife that inhabit the hill, such as orchids, butterflies, and birds. Potentially even pheasants. BlueBell Hill is also a site of historical interest, as it has several ancient monuments, such as Kit's Coty House and Little Kit's Coty House.
Westfield Sole
Westfield Sole is another hidden gem in Chatham that has all matters of trails to follow. Westfield Sole itself is a small hamlet that dates back to the 13th century. It has a quaint and peaceful atmosphere, with its out of the way farmland and woodlands. It's not recommended unless you're uber fit but you can make your way down some very steep parts of Bluebell Hill if you follow some of the trails.
Finest Feasts
If you're looking for things to do in Chatham and Rochester, you might want to check out some of the local restaurants and hotels that offer a variety of cuisines and amenities. Whether you're a fan of Indian, Turkish, or Mediterranean food, or you just want to relax and unwind in a comfortable setting, there's something for everyone in these two towns. Here are some of the places you can visit:
The Taj, Walderslade Village
The Taj is a family-run Indian restaurant that has been serving authentic dishes . for over 20 years. The menu features a range of starters, mains, sides, and desserts, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. You can enjoy your meal in the cosy dining room, or order a takeaway or delivery service. The Taj also caters for parties and events, and offers a loyalty card scheme for regular customers.
The Dead Pigeon
The Dead Pigeon is a quirky and eclectic micro-pub. The name was off the cuff when owners literally found a dead pigeon when they took the venue over. The Dead Pigeon is a quaint micro-pub that serves great food, most notably their burgers!
Shozna
Shozna is another big favourite for the Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine. The Shozna has been operating since 1996. If you're looking for a private venue, for both personal and corporate events, The Shozna can seat up to 60 guests!
Bridgewood Manor Hotel
Bridgewood Manor Hotel not only has a great bar and a great menu, it also ha the restaurant! And don't forget - dinner out could turn into a quick trip away. This four-star hotel has all the regular amenities including a swimming pool and sauna!
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