@
peterlee there's much more to Rochester than just Dickens although he's an important figure locally.
But the first great battle during the Roman conquest is thought to have been close to the river crossing on the Meadway (as called then).
But the Normans left the biggest mark. Second oldest cathedral in the country. Has in the crypt the Textus Roffensis one of the most important complete early medieval books explaining how law in Kent worked before the Norman invasion etc.
Gundulf who was Archbishop built the first cathedral and the castle outside it's West Door (the West Door is worthy of note too). The successes in Rochester led to him being tasked with building the White Tower in London.
In 1215 the castle witnessed a bloody siege during the Barons Revolt. King John rolled up and laid siege for weeks until finally mining under the keep and causing a partial collapse. You can see the rebuilt rounded tower still today.
Roll on some more and Rochester plays a part in one of the most monumental moments in British history. Tucked just of the high street is an impressive old manor house. Inn1660 after the death of Cromwell parliament restored Charles II to the English throne. His first night in England in his return was spent in this house before entering London. It's now known as Restoration House.
On YouTube there is a brilliant programme by The Rest Is History where they argue that Rochester High St is the most historical road in England.
