Hotels in Rochester

Rochester: Where Majestic Castles Meet Lush Gardens and Historic Marvels

Discover the enchanting charm of Rochester, England, where history and culture intertwine beautifully. Explore the majestic Rochester Castle, a formidable fortress with stunning views, and marvel at the awe-inspiring Rochester Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Stroll along the picturesque River Thames, and unwind in lush gardens that invite reflection and relaxation. Delve into the city's rich literary connections, especially to Charles Dickens, as you wander quaint streets filled with historic monuments. Whether you're seeking romance, a cultural escape, or a journey through time, Rochester offers a delightful blend of experiences that captivate every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Rochester, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Rochester

Some of the best places to stay in Rochester are Beckton, Tunbridge Wells Town Centre and Eltham. Rochester, England, is a charming destination known for its historic sites, scenic riverside, and vibrant culture. Beckton offers convenient access to London, while Tunbridge Wells Town Centre features elegant architecture and lush parks, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Eltham boasts a rich history with its impressive palace. Accommodations in these areas range from budget-friendly hotels to comfortable mid-range options, ensuring a pleasant stay for travelers seeking a memorable experience. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Rochester:

1. BecktonOpens in a new window: Beckton is a vibrant area known for its proximity to major attractions like the O2 Arena, ExCeL Exhibition Centre, and Tower Bridge, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. This location offers a mix of sports, culture, and business opportunities. For accommodations, consider London Marriott Hotel Canary WharfOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel that caters to families and business travelers alike, with amenities like a 24-hour business center and free cribs for children. Another option is Marriott Executive Apartments London, Canary WharfOpens in a new window, which also boasts a 5-star rating and features excellent business facilities, including a conference space. Canary Riverside Plaza HotelOpens in a new window is another great choice, providing family-friendly amenities and a comprehensive business center, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
2. Tunbridge Wells Town CentreOpens in a new window: Tunbridge Wells Town Centre is a charming destination perfect for families, offering attractions like Hever Castle and Gardens, as well as cultural sites like the Assembly Hall Theater. The area is rich in history and romance. For a delightful stay, check out The Mount EdgcumbeOpens in a new window, a cozy 5-star bed and breakfast within a mile of the center, perfect for a luxurious getaway. Alternatively, Alexander House And Utopia SpaOpens in a new window, a boutique-style 5-star hotel, offers unique décor and business amenities, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking something special. Beechwood B&BOpens in a new window is another luxurious bed and breakfast nearby, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience.
3. ElthamOpens in a new window: Eltham is a family-friendly area that combines historical significance with modern attractions, including the O2 Arena and Tower Bridge, making it a versatile choice for visitors. The city center features a variety of amenities and attractions. Consider staying at Half MoonOpens in a new window, a stylish 4.5-star inn ideal for business travelers, featuring multiple meeting rooms. For those traveling with pets, Rafayel on the Left BankOpens in a new window is a luxurious 5-star hotel that welcomes pets and provides excellent business services. Another option is The Chelsea Harbour Hotel and SpaOpens in a new window, a romantic 5-star hotel offering spa services and family-friendly amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay for couples and families alike.

Things to do in Rochester for first time

Rochester offers a delightful three-day getaway, blending rich history with stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can explore lush parks, enjoy leisurely boating on serene waters, and unwind at tranquil spas. The vibrant nightlife and charming local attractions further enhance the experience, making it a must-visit destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Rochester:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Rochester with a visit to the Historic Dockyard Chatham, where you can explore the rich maritime history and see historic warships. Afterward, head to Nucleus Arts, a vibrant hub for local artists that showcases fascinating exhibitions and offers unique pieces for sale. Conclude your day at the Gillingham Spiritualist Church, where you can relax in a peaceful atmosphere and perhaps even take part in a spiritual service or event.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Gillingham Business Park, a hub of activity where you can grab a coffee and plan your next moves. Then, immerse yourself in nature at Eastcourt Meadows Country Park, where you can enjoy the scenic walking trails and observe local wildlife. In the afternoon, visit Fort Amherst, the largest Napoleonic fortress in England, where you can explore historical tunnels and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a visit to the stunning Leeds Castle, often referred to as the loveliest castle in the world. Explore its beautiful gardens and rich history. Next, head to Kent Life, a fascinating open-air museum where you can learn about Kent's rural history and enjoy interactive activities. Finally, wrap up your trip at Tilbury Fort, a historic site with impressive fortifications that offer a glimpse into England's military past and a beautiful view of the Thames.

5 tips to find a great Rochester hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, January, November, and December are the best months to visit Rochester, as hotel prices tend to be lower during this time. For a budget-friendly trip, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the city's key attractions, such as the historic castle and the stunning cathedral. This way, you can make the most of your experience while keeping costs down, making it a great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute hotel deals in Rochester, Hotels.com is a fantastic resource. To uncover these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find discounted rates on nearby accommodations as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Rochester.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it often comes at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are usually more likely to be budget-friendly, while still keeping in mind the ease of reaching the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Rochester. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

Best time to go to Rochester

Rochester experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 40.6°F (4.8°C), while July and August are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 63.9°F (17.7°C). October is usually the wettest month. April, July, and September are the peak travel months in Rochester, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, January, October, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.