Join me as I delve into the fascinating history of England's second-oldest cathedral. This was a relaxing and enjoyable visit, and the cathedral staff were very helpful and friendly. I will be revisiting the cathedral to video the crypt when I visit Rochester Castle in the near future.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
Rochester Cathedral is free, but the cathedral encourages voluntary donations of £5 per person. The cathedral also charges a small fee for groups and asks for donations from those visiting for any reason other than worship. The Cathedral is open daily and has a gift shop, café, and accessible toilets. The cathedral offers guided tours for £5.50 per person, with children under 10 free. Tours last about an hour and are recommended to be booked in advance.
HISTORY IN BRIEF
The history and heritage of Rochester Cathedral is boasted in its stunning architecture. Its walls hum with the prayer of thousands of years. Join me on my walk through the pages of history in this beautiful building.
Rochester can claim to be the second-oldest cathedral in England after Canterbury. It was founded by King Ethelbert of Kent in AD 604. The Cathedral was personally consecrated by St Augustine and dedicated to St Andrew, the patron saint of monasteries. The first Bishop of Rochester was Justus. The original 7th-century Cathedral has long since vanished through centuries of rebuilding, but in 1889 restoration work uncovered the foundations of the original 7th-century building under the west end.
