Rochester Cathedral was founded in 604 AD and is the second oldest cathedral in England, after Canterbury Cathedral. The building you see today broadly dates from the 11th century. Inside, you can see a fine collection of medieval wall paintings and the Textus Roffensis, the only existing written copy of the first code of English law and one of the most important books in England.

JakobusPilger

June 29, 2025

Hiking

When visiting this impressive church, every visitor, regardless of their denomination, should feel the breath of history. The cathedral—the episcopal church of the Anglican diocese of the same name—in the city of Rochester takes us far back to the beginnings of the Christianization of England, to the early seventh century.

Translated by

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David Bavin-Hobbs

January 24, 2024

Road cycling

Grade 1 listed building and the seat of the Bishop of Rochester, the second oldest Bishopric in England, after Canterbury. Founded in the 7th century, it's a wonderful place for a stop, with plenty of cafes nearby.

Nearby routes

Best routes near Rochester Cathedral

3.9

(7)

hikers

#1.

Rochester Cathedral – Rochester Castle loop from Chatham

12.5km

03:16

90m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

3.5

(4)

hikers

#2.

Rochester Castle – Rochester Bridge loop from Rochester

9.38km

02:29

90m

100m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(2)

hikers

#3.

Rochester Cathedral – Rochester Castle loop from Chatham

13.5km

03:31

100m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 20 m

Monday-Friday: 07:30-18:00, Saturday: 08:30-17:00, Sunday: 07:30-17: 00

Contacts

Rochester Cathedral, The Chapter Office, Garth House, The Precinct, Rochester, Kent ME1 1SX

www.rochestercathedral.org/

info@rochestercathedral.org

01634 843366

Weather

Tuesday 31 March

14°C

7°C

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Take Me There

Location: South East England, England, United Kingdom

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Rochester Cathedral

#1.

Rochester Cathedral – Rochester Castle loop from Chatham

#2.

Rochester Castle – Rochester Bridge loop from Rochester

#3.

Rochester Cathedral – Rochester Castle loop from Chatham

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