Rochester

Rochester is a city on the River Medway with a Norman castle, a medieval cathedral and a high street whose Victorian character is largely intact -- partly because it was left outside the main post-war redevelopment programmes and partly because of its association with Charles Dickens, who spent his childhood in the city and set several novels here. The Dickens connection has given Rochester a clear identity that survives both the tourist infrastructure built around it and the calendar of festivals it generates.

The castle dates from 1127 and its square Norman keep -- at 38 metres, one of the tallest in England -- dominates the riverfront. The interior is open to visitors and the roof gives unobstructed views along the Medway. Rochester Cathedral, beside the castle, was founded in 604 AD and has been rebuilt several times since; the crypt, the oldest surviving part, contains some of the finest Norman stonework in Kent and is included with the free entry donation. The best viewpoint for the castle exterior is Boley Hill, a small open area behind the keep accessible from the lane alongside St Margaret's Church.

The Summer Dickens Festival -- held on the first weekend of June each year since 1979 -- fills the high street with costumed characters, street performances and events over two days and is free to attend. A Dickensian Christmas Festival runs over several weekends in November and December. Rochester station has regular direct services from London Victoria, St Pancras and Charing Cross.