Entertainment

Chatham Maritime is a great place to come to for some rest and relaxation. Plans for a number of restaurants and bars to be built around the award-winning marina will make it a great place for a night out or a long-lunch, especially during the spring and summer months.

But for those who don't want to wait there is already the converted Ship and Trades building, which is now a Shepherd Neame pub, hotel and restaurant also situated alongside the marina and offering stunning views across the water to St Mary's Island and the Elizabethan Upnor Castle.

Then there is Dickens World, the state-of-the-art themed entertainment/visitor attraction based on the life, times and books of Charles Dickens which is currently under construction.

This £60 million project will be an in-house experience reproducing the architecture of the Victorian period and include picturesque archways, cobbled streets and specialist lighting to provide the background to the rides and attractions. A number of themed restaurants and bars will also feature at the site.

Also under construction next-door to Dickens World is an Odeon operated multiplex cinema. This is due to open in October 2006, while Dickens World is expected to open its doors in April 2007.

For those who want to explore a little further, historic Rochester is just a mile down the road, featuring cobbled streets, antique and book shops and a host of restaurants and bars. Visitors can see Rochester Cathedral and Castle, and if they come in May or June enjoy the annual Sweeps and Dickens festivals. Throughout the summer there are a number of concerts organised in the castle gardens ranging from the London Philomonic Orchestra to rock and pop bands. For more information on this year's concerts go to www.medway.gov.uk

Another place worth visiting while at Chatham Maritime is nearby Upnor. Enjoy visiting its stunning Elizabethan castle, take in the breathtaking countryside or enjoy a traditional pub lunch.