2 Best Hotels in Rochester, The Southeast

This lovely, larger-than-you-expect farmhouse on the grounds of Sissinghurst Castle was originally built in 1885 and lovingly restored in 2009 by the National Trust. Tastefully decorated in muted, neutral color schemes, bedrooms are spacious and welcoming, with comfy beds, modern bathrooms, and sumptuous views across the estate. On arrival, guests are served tea with homemade cakes in the cozy communal lounge—or in the garden if the weather's nice—while charcuterie and cheese platters can be ordered in the evening (there's no restaurant). An honesty bar stocked with snacks and drinks is also available—though make sure to save enough space for tomorrow's deliciously filling breakfast.

Overlooking Chatham Maritime Marina on the River Medway, the charming boutique bedrooms above this bar and restaurant offer comfy beds, modern bathrooms, and subtle seafaring-themed decor, from wooden oar headboards to vintage maritime maps. Some rooms also come with large balconies overlooking the harbor, perfect places to sit in the evening and watch the sun go down. Downstairs, the pub-restaurant serves a mix of good-value British pub staples (beef and ale pies, cod and chips, chicken burgers) and interesting international fare (lime and chili tiger prawns, vegan koftas, goat cheese tortellini) along with a good range of lagers, ales, and craft beers. Along with being convenient for the Historic Dockyard Chatham, the hotel is right by the Dockside Shopping Centre, but keep in mind it's a 45-minute walk (or 10-minute drive) into the center of Rochester.