The five Medway Towns include: Strood, Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham, and Rainham. They form a lively urban cluster in north Kent along the River Medway estuary. Known for their rich heritage, riverside walks, and local character, each town offers unique sights and community spirit as part of the broader Medway area.
The Medway Towns blend centuries of history, including castles, cathedrals, and dockyards, with modern markets, festivals, and estuary landscapes. Whether you’re exploring Rochester’s cobbled streets, tracing Chatham’s naval past, shopping in Gillingham, or unwinding in Rainham’s countryside, Medway offers a welcoming taste of authentic North Kent. Coastal escapes are only minutes away, making Medway a worthwhile visit for history buffs, families, and beach seekers.
The 5 Medway towns:
Strood
Positioned on the western bank of the River Medway, Strood is a gateway to the Medway Towns and offers panoramic water views. While Strood is more residential and commercial, it provides convenient access to walking trails along the river and nearby countryside. Strood itself does not have any true beaches, but green spaces and riverside parks give residents and visitors a place to relax by the water.
Rochester
Rochester is synonymous with history, home to Rochester Castle and Rochester Cathedral. Its picturesque Victorian-style High Street is the district’s cultural heart, featuring independent shops, cafes, and regular festivals. Though it doesn’t offer coastal beaches, Rochester holds riverbank spots for waterside walks and events, while sandy beaches can be found just outside town in places like Allhallows and Grain.
Chatham
Chatham has an impressive maritime heritage thanks to the renowned Historic Dockyard, once one of Britain’s key naval bases. Today, it’s a vibrant cultural destination with a museum quarter, creative events, and dockside developments. Chatham lacks its own beachfront but offers riverside paths and easy access to the Medway’s coastline within a short drive, including the Isle of Grain and Allhallows.
Gillingham
Central to Medway, Gillingham features a busy pedestrianised high street, a traditional market, and family-friendly parks. The town also offers the popular Strand Leisure Park, which hosts a small stretch of sandy and pebbly riverbank, which is sometimes used for family picnics and summer paddling. For larger beaches, locals head east to the Isle of Grain or Allhallows.
Rainham
Rainham sits further east along the River Medway and encompasses parts of the Hoo Peninsula. With leafy suburban areas and quaint outlying villages, Rainham is well positioned for countryside walks and marshland scenery. There are no sandy beaches in Rainham itself, but walking and cycling routes provide beautiful glimpses of the estuary and local wildlife. For a full beach day, residents travel to Allhallows Beach or Isle of Grain, both easily reached by car.
Attractions in Medway
Medway offers a delightful range of attractions just a short distance from its beach areas, combining history, culture, nature, and family fun to enrich your coastal experience.
- The Historic Dockyard Chatham: Explore an internationally significant maritime heritage site featuring historic warships, interactive exhibits, and the famous “Call the Midwife” filming locations.
- Rochester Castle and Cathedral: Marvel at one of England’s finest medieval castles and the stunning cathedral, both highlighting Medway’s deep historic roots.
- Fort Amherst: Britain’s largest Napoleonic fortress offers fascinating underground tours and panoramic views across Medway.
- Capstone Farm Country Park: Ideal for nature lovers and families, this country park provides woodlands, lakes, and plenty of space for hiking and picnics.
- Riverside Country Park (Rainham): Enjoy scenic estuary walks, birdwatching spots, and peaceful surroundings along the River Medway.
- Diggerland Kent: A family-favourite amusement park in Strood where kids can operate real diggers and enjoy outdoor play areas.
- Call the Midwife Tour (Chatham): Dive into the BBC series’ filming locations with guided tours at the historic dockyard, perfect for fans.
- The Vines Gardens (Rochester): A serene, landscaped garden space great for relaxing strolls or peaceful reflection near the historic town centre.
- Hollywood Bowl (Rochester): A modern bowling alley located within the Pentagon Centre offering family-friendly entertainment and party options.
Transport
Medway benefits from excellent transport links. Regular trains connect the area to London in under 40 minutes, while roadways such as the M2 and A2 motorways offer easy car access. Local bus services operate regularly, and cycling routes like the Medway Valley Walk provide scenic, eco-friendly travel options.