Rochester Castle

The 12th century keep of Rochester Castle looms large as you walk through the pleasant walled grounds, a great contrast of age to the nearby cathedral. William of Corbeil, Archbishop of Canterbury, built this ragstone edifice around 1127 and is one of the finest examples of its type in Europe today.

Wandering around its three floors, with their decorative arches and basement, you come to understand what an imposing building it once was. There are great views over the Medway from the top, although it was sad to see the pigeons imprisoned by netting. Owned by English Heritage.