Leeds Castle and Rochester

First drive to Leeds Castle in Kent and then visit Rochester, home of Charles Dickens. A castle has existed on the site at Leeds since 857. In the 13th century, it came into the hands of King Edward I, for whom it became a favourite residence; in the 16th century, Henry VIII used it as a dwelling for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. The present castle dates mostly from the early 19th century. Its last private owner, Olive, Lady Baillie, left the castle in trust to open it to the public. It has been open since 1976. The castle itself and stunning landscaped grounds are well worth a visit. Next enjoy a walking tour around the historic town of Rochester. Rochester was for many years a favourite of Charles Dickens, who owned nearby Gads Hill Place, Higham. He based many of his novels on the area. The Diocese of Rochester, the second-oldest in England, is centred on Rochester Cathedral and was responsible for founding a school, now The King’s School, in 604 AD, which is recognised as the second-oldest continuously running school in the world. Rochester Castle, built by Bishop Gundulf of Rochester, has one of the best-preserved keeps in either England or France.