Discover 400 years of maritime history found within Chatham Dockyard.  A tour of the Victorian Ropery, three historic warships and world-class maritime models form just a small part of the world’s most extensive dockyard, showcasing the age of sail. An afternoon cruise aboard the coal-fired paddle steamer Kingswear Castle, viewing castles and forts along the River Medway.  In Rochester, a visit to the unique Restoration House: a superb late 16th century mansion renowned for its beautiful interiors, delightful gardens and literary associations. Leisurely guided walk around the mediaeval city of Rochester to include the Tudor charity houses, Eastgate House and numerous Charles Dickens connections. 

Two impressive country houses.  First Godinton Park, built in “true Jacobean-cum-Victorian” style and awarded 4 stars in Simon Jenkin’s England’s 1000 Best Houses, surrounded by the splendour of a park laid by Blomfield with fabulous and extensive gardens. Then Belmont House, an attractive late Georgian house designed by Samuel Wyatt and owned by General Harris who used his prize money from victories in India to purchase the estate.  The house contains the finest collection of clocks in private hands and is surrounded by a garden superbly planted throughout, from the herbaceous borders to the lovely 2 acre walled kitchen garden designed by Arabella Lennox-Boyd. 

Stay at the Chilston Park Hotel, a Grade 1 listed Manor House. With its original features and classic interiors, past owners have included MPs, writers, Lords and Viscounts, and it is now a luxury 4 star hotel set in 22 acres of parkland and grounds.  The comfortable courtyard bedrooms and those in the new wing of the house are a blend of the contemporary and the traditional. There are many grand reception rooms from libraries to drawing rooms in which to relax, have tea or a drink, and enjoy this elegant hotel with its award-winning restaurant.

Monday 11 June: Check into the hotel before welcome drink.
Tuesday 12 June: Visit Belmont House near Faversham, then continue to Godinton Park, where a light lunch will be provided.
Wednesday 13 June:  Chatham Dockyards in the morning, with a guided tour of the Victorian Ropery and an afternoon on the River Medway for the 2 ½ hour castles and forts cruise. 
Thursday 14 June:  Morning visit to Restoration House, a guided walk in Rochester then return to the hotel/train station for 2.30 departure.

The hotel has easy access by rail. Lenham station - trains from London Victoria.

	3 nights accommodation, dinner and breakfast
	All entries, boat cruise and one lunch.
	Coaching throughout
	Heritage Touring host and guide