KENTSTAYCATION
A CREATIVE ESCAPE CONT .
CHATHAM ’ S HISTORIC DOCKYARD
A creative trip to Medway
Standing proudly in the north of Kent with rich cultural and historical connections , it ’ s really no surprise that this wonderful cluster of towns are bidding for the UK ’ s coveted City of Culture title in 2025 ; all the more reason to book a trip and discover for yourself the unique story .
Immerse yourself in culture with a trip to Rochester and Chatham ; safeguarding the River Medway , there are plenty of diverse and exciting creative activities to get involved in . Delve into how Chatham ’ s Historic Dockyard helped Britain stay afloat for over 400 years , uncover the truths at the castle at the centre of a crushing defeat and gawp in awe at one of the country ’ s oldest cathedrals . Go on a creative journey and discover the literary links and the many locations along the way paying tribute to famous former resident , Charles Dickens .
Start the day by heading along Rochester ’ s beautiful cobbled high street , which is lined with grand , ornate historic buildings . Make a stop at The Halpern Conservancy ; the building from the outside appears steeped in history , head inside however and you ’ ll find a more modern interior that ’ s home to Cafe Nucleus , The Halpern Pop Gallery , Boardroom and Artist Studios - all part of Nucleus Arts . Nucleus Arts is the creative and cultural hub of Medway ; with four venues across Chatham and Rochester , their ethos is local and accessible . They strive to provide affordable venues and studio hire for creatives , art workshops and beautiful spaces where people can enjoy art in all different mediums from a range of artists . You can find their 2022 workshop programme via the website : www . nucleusarts . com .
Once you ’ ve indulged in a great coffee and a delicious slice of cake in the cafe , head back along the bustling high street to the stunning Rochester Cathedral . A place of significant spirituality , this spectacular church has been celebrating Christian worship since 604 AD and you have the opportunity to walk through the pages of its fascinating history . Carry on your journey of discovery with a wander to Eastgate House . This Grade I listed 16th- and 17th-century townhouse is one of the most impressive and distinctive buildings in Rochester ’ s historic High Street and was once a great inspiration to the great author Charles Dickens who resided here all those years ago . Literary links can be found on almost every corner in celebration of Medway ’ s connections to the great author and the sights , sounds and places that inspired his work . Time your creative escape right and experience Rochester ’ s Dickens Festival , a characterful experience with live music , performances , readings and parades – there ’ s something for the whole family . Other festivals in the calendar include the annual Rochester Christmas market ; held in the wonderful Rochester Castle grounds , this is the perfect place to pick up unique locally made artisan gifts .
For an artistic fix , check out Rochester Art Gallery and Craft Case . Located on the ground floor of the Medway Visitor Information right in the centre of the high street , this space presents an exciting programme of high quality contemporary visual art and craft from regional and international creatives . Sun Pier House a little further towards Chatham is another award-winning space for artists , creative businesses , production and arts exchange and boasts great views over the River Medway . The Mess Room located on the bottom floor is an innovative , easily accessible space often hosting workshops for the deaf and blind . For those wanting something a little more structured , book onto one of Mrs Baker ’ s Medway Tours for an exclusive adventure offering an experiential taste of the arts past and present with a range of bespoke and interactive activities thrown in .
Finish the day with a trip to the theatre . Mrs Baker ’ s Theatre Company offers a programme of productions across Kent all with the support of the local community . Otherwise , The Central or Brook Theatres in Chatham provide the perfect backdrop for a range of traditional and contemporary theatre , dance , music and entertainment . For dinner and the ultimate indulgent experience , try The Cheese Rooms ; this quirky deli and cafe sells exactly what it says on the tin - all things cheese ! Feast on a cheese-heavy menu and sample gins from their vast and inspiring bar . When you ’ re all cheesed out , stumble along the high street and end the night in true Dickensian style at Dickens House Wine Emporium ; this independent family run wine specialist proudly offer every day drinking if you are looking for a glass , but also an unrivalled selection of wines and spirits - both local and world - that you can take away with you .
For more inspiration for planning your ultimate Kent Staycation , visit www . kentstaycation . co . uk kentstaycation .
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