Rochester Cathedral
What’s there?
Set just off the main High Street and adjacent to Rochester Castle, this stunning place of worship is free to visit and explore. The Cathedral has a beautiful array of art within its walls; from stained glass windows to Norman architecture to the glorious organ. Most of the cathedral is open to explore on a daily basis, visit their website for information regarding visiting the library and special access visits.
Within the crypt you will find a cafe and the Bridge Trust exhibition that recounts the history of Rochester Bridge in its’ many forms over the centuries. Children have the opportunity to complete a quiz and i-spy trail or have a go at being a bridge engineer.
Please be aware that some parts of the building are not fully accessible and you may need to go up and down a few steps. There is disabled and pushchair access via the North door into the Nave and they do have disabled toilets. Please visit Rochester Cathedral’s website for more details.
Close by
The Rochester Guildhall Museum is a 5 minute walk down the High Street from the Cathedral.
If your little ones require room to run around and burn off some energy there is a small playground on the banks of the River Medway at the foot of the castle on the Esplande. Follow the High Street towards Rochester Bridge and proceed to walk along the Esplande.
Rochester Castle, an English Heritage Site, is only a 2 minute walk from the Cathedral. The castle grounds are free to enter and a lovely spot to enjoy your picnic and run around. Please see the English Heritage website for details about entry to the castle. There is a set of public toilets available here, but there is no baby changing facilities. You can use the toilets at the Guildhall Musuem, or those opposite the Corn Exchange, see the Medway Council website for more details.
Along the High Street you will also find the Rochester Visitors Center which also houses the Huguenot Museum.
Jackson’s Field and Victoria Garden’s are approximately 1 mile away if you walk towards Chatham. Both offer lovely green spaces and children’s play equipment.
Baty’s Marsh and Borstal Recreation Ground is 1.5 miles away from the Cathedral and offers a lovely open green space and children’s play area.
Gallery
How to find it…
Rochester Cathedral, Rochester, ME1 1SX
What to take
You don’t really need to bring much with you to this stunning venue. So that you can enjoy your picnic outside of the Cathedral we would recommend bringing a picnic blanket.