The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from City of London, England to Gillingham, England
London and Gillingham are two of England's great cities with unique histories, culture, and attractions. A road trip between these two cities is an exciting journey that takes a little over an hour and covers approximately 40 miles. The journey has several highlights and is also packed with some unforgettable experiences. One of the enjoyable places along the journey that stands out is Dartford, KEN, a halfway point that's worth the stop.
The Top Five Things to do on a Road Trip from City of London to Gillingham
1. Chatham Historic Dockyard
The historic dockyard is an excellent exhibition hall that covers more than four hundred years of the Royal Navy's history. It is the most complete dockyard from the Age of Sail in existence. The center of the site is the Victorian ship HMS Gannet, which is part of a collection of historic vessels and a museum of the Royal Dockyard's history. Taking a tour of the dockyard is the best way to explore the ancient shipbuilding industry and the distinctive architecture of the factory and workers' village.
Fact:
Lord Horatio Nelson served here between 1793 and 1797, and the dockyard was used as the film set of the BBC show Call the Midwife.
2. Rochester Castle
Rochester Castle is a significant landmark in Rochester and dates back to the Norman era. It has a turbulent history of invasions and sieges such as the famous siege of 1215 during King John's reign. The castle has survived, and its ruins are now open for visitors to explore and learn about the living conditions and history of the past. The castle is ideal for visitors who love history and are interested in medieval architecture.
Fact:
The castle is unique because it was one of the earliest examples of a stone keep in the United Kingdom.
3. Upnor Castle
Upnor Castle was built in the late 16th century to protect naval ships from a surprise attack. It has impressive views of the River Medway and the Thames Estuary. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and walk down to the river's edge, watching boats go by. Upnor Castle is a charming day trip destination and an excellent spot for a picnic.
Fact:
Upnor Castle is renowned for poor construction, facing years of decay even while it was still new.
4. Bluewater Shopping Centre
If you want to stop for a little shopping before proceeding to Gillingham, Bluewater Shopping Centre is an excellent spot to do just that. It has more than 350 stores, cafes, and restaurants, ensuring that there is something for everyone. It's a great place to refresh and refuel before hitting the road again.
Fact:
The shopping center has the largest open-air Winter Wonderland ice rink in the United Kingdom.
5. Gillingham Pier and Marina
Gillingham Pier and Marina are ideal for visitors who love water activities. The pier has spectacular views over the River Medway and offers visitors the opportunity to go fishing from its jetty. There are also several companies on the marina that offer boating activities and training such as Sailing. It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy the calmness of the river.
Fact:
The pier is sometimes used as a location for some movies and TV shows including Doctor Who in 1967.
Conclusion
A road trip from City of London to Gillingham is a perfect opportunity to explore some of England's most significant historic landmarks and shopping centers. The journey takes approximately an hour, making it perfect for a long afternoon's drive or a weekend trip. Dartford, as a halfway point, offers an excellent chance to grab a bite and refresh before continuing to explore. The trip's highlights include the Chatham Historic Dockyard, Rochester Castle, Upnor Castle, Bluewater Shopping Centre, and Gillingham Pier, all offering unique experiences worth exploring.