Strood Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Strood in Kent, England, including a list of places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and tips for safety and health.


Introduction to Strood

Located in the historic county of Kent, Strood is a small town situated on the River Medway. It was once an important hub for trade and transport during the Roman and medieval times and it continues to have a rich cultural history. Strood has a lot to offer for those who want to experience heritage and natural beauty in one place. From museums and historical attractions to outdoor adventures and scenic routes, Strood offers a perfect blend of experiences. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to explore this hidden gem of Kent.

List of Places to Visit in Strood

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. The Guildhall Museum

The Guildhall Museum is a must-visit destination for history buffs. The venue has the largest collection of Roman artifacts in Kent. It also features exhibits detailing the town’s natural history, the impact of World War II, and more.

2. Upnor Castle

Located on a hill high above Strood, Upnor Castle was commissioned by Queen Elizabeth I to protect the River Medway from invasion. Visitors can explore the castle’s stunning architecture and learn about its role in English history.

3. Historic Rochester

Just across the river sits the ancient city of Rochester. This historic town boasts numerous notable sites including the impressive Rochester Castle and the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey. Visitors can also experience the Dickensian charm at Rochester’s Dickens festival, held every year.

Natural Attractions of Strood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Hoo Peninsula

Stretching from Strood to Allhallows, the Hoo Peninsula offers a stunning natural landscape and is perfect for hikers and bird watchers. The peninsula is home to the RSPB Reserve, a bird sanctuary that provides visitors with scenic views of the Thames Estuary.

2. The North Downs Way National Trail

The North Downs Way National Trail is a 153-mile trail that winds its way across Kent and Surrey. The route offers some of the most beautiful views in the UK. The Strood stretch of the trail is perfect for hikers and cyclists who want to explore the countryside surrounding the town.

3. Riverside Country Park

The Riverside Country Park is a great destination for families. This large park has play areas, a skate park, picnic sites, and an educational center. Visitors can follow the walking trails along the river and enjoy the stunning views of the Medway.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Strood

1. The Strood Loop

The Strood Loop is a 7-mile cycling route that takes you through the countryside and along the Thames Estuary. The route starts in Strood town center and follows a mix of roads, paths, and tracks.

2. North Downs Way National Trail

As mentioned earlier, the North Downs Way National Trail is a great hiking and biking route that offers beautiful views of the countryside. The Strood section of the trail is 8 miles long and runs from Wrotham to Cuxton.

3. The Kentish Lady River Cruise

For those who prefer a leisurely bike ride, the Kentish Lady River Cruise provides an opportunity to take in the beautiful scenery along the River Medway. The boat journey takes visitors from Maidstone to Allington Lock and back, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Strood: Activities and Tours

1. Rochester Walking Tours

If you want to learn more about Rochester’s history, then a walking tour might be perfect for you. The guided tours take visitors through the streets of Rochester highlighting the city’s past.

2. Kent Food Tours

Kent Food Tours take visitors on a culinary journey through Kent’s most delicious food haunts. The tours start in Maidstone, a short distance from Strood, and take guests on a gourmet journey of the county’s best produce, from oysters to traditional pies.

3. Medway Little Theatre

The Medway Little Theatre is a great destination for performing arts enthusiasts. The venue hosts regular shows featuring both professional and amateur actors, showcasing a range of productions from drama and comedy to musicals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Strood

Here is a week-long itinerary for those who want to experience the best of what Strood has to offer:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Guildhall Museum and learn about Roman history
Day 2 Explore Upnor Castle, followed by a picnic at Riverside Country Park
Day 3 Enjoy a bike ride on the North Downs Way National Trail
Day 4 Take a trip to the historic Rochester for a walking tour and a visit to Rochester castle
Day 5 Visit Hoo Peninsula for stunning views of the Thames Estuary
Day 6 Take a Kent Food Tour and dine at some of the county’s best restaurants
Day 7 See a show at Medway Little Theatre

Food and Drink Scene of Strood

Must-Try Dishes

Strood doesn’t have a distinct local delicacy, but visitors can enjoy some classic pub and restaurant fare:

  • Fish and chips at the Queens Head restaurant
  • Steak and ale pie at the Whitehorse Inn
  • Canterbury lamb and neck with sauteed potatoes at the Porterhouse Restaurant.

Local Beverages

Kent is known for producing some of the UK’s best beers and cider. Visitors to Strood can try some of the county’s finest ales at The Man of Kent Ale House or the Northern Seaman pub.

Where to Stay in Strood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Strood has limited accommodation options, but visitors can find some great options nearby. These include:

  • Premier Inn, Rochester
  • Holiday Inn Rochester-Chatham
  • Bridgewood Manor

What to Buy in Strood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Strood doesn’t have a specific souvenir shops or local products, visitors can find a range of hand-crafted, locally-made gifts and treats in the surrounding areas. The Dickens Festival in Rochester often has numerous vendors offering locally-made crafts, while the nearby Bluewater shopping center has a range of shopping options.

Local Culture and Customs of Strood

Strood has a strong community spirit and values its history deeply. The town has many traditional events, including the annual paddle and row event which takes place in the summer. Visitors should respect the town’s historic architecture and treat Strood with care.

Best Time to Visit Strood

The best time to visit Strood is between April and September when the weather is mild and the countryside is in full bloom. The Dickens Festival, held every summer, is a highlight of the season for fans of the famous author.

Do’s and Don’ts of Strood

Do:

  • Respect the town’s history and heritage
  • Explore the town on foot, visiting the many historical landmarks
  • Try some of the local beers and ciders

Don’t:

  • Litter in the countryside or around historical sites
  • Damage historical buildings or structures
  • Disturb the wildlife at the RSPB Bird Sanctuary

Safety and Health

Safety in Strood

Strood is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take the usual precautions when out exploring. Always lock your vehicle and secure your valuables. It’s also important to be aware of the risks when hiking in the surrounding countryside. Visitors should carry water and maps with them.

Health in Strood

Visitors to Strood should have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) when travelling through Kent, as the town is part of the UK. Visitors are advised to take out travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to Strood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Strood

Strood is located less than an hour from Gatwick Airport and approximately 90 minutes from Heathrow Airport.

Bus Stations Near Strood

Strood has a bus station located in the town center, with regular services to nearby towns and villages, including Rochester, Chatham, and Maidstone.

Other Options

Train services from London Victoria, London St Pancras, and Charing Cross stop at the Strood Railway Station, providing easy access to London and other destinations in the UK.

How to Get Around in Strood

Strood is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. Visitors can rent bicycles for longer journeys or take advantage of the local buses to explore nearby towns and villages.

Where to Go Next from Strood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Strood is perfectly situated as a base for exploring nearby Kentish towns and villages. Some popular destinations include:

  • Chatham, a historic dockyard and shopping destination;
  • Maidstone, a market town known for its local food and drinks;
  • Canterbury, a historic cathedral town.

Conclusion

Strood is a hidden gem in the Kent countryside, offering a range of historical and natural attractions for visitors to explore. With its rich history, stunning countryside, and local produce, Strood offers a perfect destination for a short break or an extended stay.

High Street, Strood High Street, Strood A Eurostar train passing Strood heading for the Medway Viaduct A Eurostar train passing Strood heading for the Medway Viaduct The far end of Medway Valley Leisure Park. The far end of Medway Valley Leisure Park. The Prince of Wales pub in Strood The Prince of Wales pub in Strood