Car Hire Rochester

Located within the area of Medway, Rochester is a charming old fashioned city that offers its visitors a lot of beautiful landmarks and surroundings. Rochester is famous for its cathedral and castle, as well as for the surrounding villages. According to the 2001 census, Rochester has a population of 27.000 residents. At its origin, the first name of Rochester was Durobrivae, meaning stronghold by the bridge. The has underwent many changes throughout the centuries and it has become a multicultural, cosmopolitan town. Rochester has a great accommodation to offer: 5 star hotels, comfortable and clean B&B's or old fashioned inns, as well a range of venues to choose from: restaurants, takeaways and coffee shops.

Rochester is often referred to as 'the City of Great Expectations' due to its association with Charles Dickens. There is a Dickens Centre, as well as Dickens festivals in the summer and at Christmas. Located strategically on one bank of the River Medway, the city has retained significant remnants of its fortified past. Sections of both its Roman, and medieval town walls still remain adjacentto its great Norman Castle. The Castle and Norman Cathedral are among England's finest, originally dating from the eleventh century.

Top Attractions Within Rochester:

Rochester Castle is one of the best preserved 12th century castle in Europe. It was founded in the immediate period of the Norman conquest. It played an important role during the medieval period, because it helped protect the south-eastern coast from invasion. Over the years, many efforts have been made to preserve the castle at its best. You will experience a travel back in time should you decide to visit Rochester Castle.

Rochester Cathedral is the second oldest in England after Canterbury and it must be one of the most impressive edifices in England. The architectural style that combines Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque gives the building interesting and unique features. The current building is regarded as one of the finest Normal cathedrals in the country, with a beautifully designed main entrance.

Rochester's Dickens Festival is held twice a year in Rochester, in June and in December, and it consists in reviving the period when Dickens lived. The locals dress up, they print out Pickwick Papers and walk around the town portraying the characters for Dickens' novels.

Rochester is a truly magnificent place to be visited. You discover something new with every step you take. The food is great, the history is there, the people are always nice and willing to help you should you need anything. Do not hesitate to come and visit Rochester. You will not regret it.