Rochester Castle

The first castle was built on this site by the Romans to protect the bridge across the River Medway. Watling Street, the main road from London to Dover crossed here. Bishop Gundolf started work on the current castle on behalf of William the Conquerer in 1087. It is 113 feet high, 70 feet square and the walls are between 11 and 13 feet thick. King John lay siege to the castle in 1215 and took it after two long months. He finally undermined the south east tower and burned the props with the "fat of forty pigs" causing the tower to collapse. This tower was rebuilt round rather than square which you will probably notice if you visit.

The trek to the top of the castle is well worth the hard work. The spiral stone staircases are well worn and narrow if you meet traffic coming the other way. The views of the city are breath taking so take your camera.