2 Cathedrals, 2 Days, 1 Birthday

Our little trip to Kent has been interesting.

DAY ONE:

Arrived Rochester - well actually Strood. Had to cross the Medway on foot over one of the three bridges that span the water all very close together. Then we were in historic Rochester.

Many fine and frankly ancient buildings along the medieval High Street. Unique shops, very few chains, weirdly named alleys, cobbled streets and most buildings had a plaque or memorial stone to some event or some one. Over the years, clearly it has all happened in Rochester.

The connection, however tenuous, with Charles Dickens, is squeezed out at every available way. And why not I say.

 

The castle and cathedral are almost side by side - so they were both photographed. We had slight confusion of where to have lunch. Our desire to find pubs put of the good pub guide has more recently had disastrous results. (only disastrous for our tummies) and once again we found a pub that didn't serve food. The Coopers Arms (no relation) did however serve a lovely ale which we consumed with glee.

Rochester Castle

Rochester Cathedral has had many changes and additions over the centuries. Its facade is built of gorgeous honey coloured stone with delightful carvings. Clearly there has been some restoration but it does look lovely. The war memorial mosaics in the nave were very interesting. The interior is full of the different styles connected with cathedrals Norman arches, Gothic windows, Victorian screens, Pugin tiles. The over riding memory of the place is that, like Rochester itself, every available spot is dedicated to, or in memory of, someone.

Visited the 'largest second-hand book shop in England'. Obviously lots of books. Time and money spent in joy.

The Crypt at Rochester - wonderful space

Headed to Whitstable, the home of Peter Cushing. We sang the Peter Cushing song. (See here). We had tea in the Peter Cushing Weatherspoons. A sumptuous former art deco cinema - what a lovely place lovingly refurbished. Then onto the beach to try some long exposures of the seascape at twilight. We saw fireworks off in the distance and wondered if they were to celebrate Boris's win as Lord Mayor of London? But a little unsure of the geography so didn't really know.

Whitstable Beach

Back to hotel which is in a place called 'Bobbing' much mirth and merriment was to be had with the sat nav - childish I know but we are on holiday and it is nearly my birthday. Downloaded all images captured today. There are some with potential. I particularly like mine of the huge crypt. Whilst we were downloading we watched a documentary on BBC Four about Fleetwood Mac. Music and Photography. Brilliant.

DAY TWO:

Set off the Canterbury Cathedral. Wow what a space. We paid £9.50 to get in - quite steep but I say again wow. Spent all day in the Cathedral with a quick walk around the city centre to find lunch. Beautiful city with tremendously old buildings. I'll let the images do the talking:

Oh yes it was my birthday too - I got a splendid present - Oblique Strategies, Brian Eno and Peter Schmidt. This will be so helpful when I get stuck with a project or a business idea. Cant wait to show them off.

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