Tis the season of togetherness, festive songs, and of course Christmas markets. With Medway having a Christmas market right here in Rochester I thought it would be rude not to go and explore this magical area. Being set in the grounds of Rochester Castle certainly adds to the Christmas charm on offer here, so I ventured out to see what was around and to lift my Christmas spirits.
Every year I look forward to the Christmas period when dazzling lights go up and festive songs are sung aloud. I’ve also begun to make it an annual tradition to visit the Rochester Christmas market ever since it came back after Covid in 2021. Not many Christmas markets can boast a setting that Rochester offers, with Christmas trees, fake snow and lights galore all in the iconic setting of the castle grounds. It isn’t just me who ventures out in the chilly weather as it is often rather busy with people enjoying the festive atmosphere that the market provides.
Arriving at the market we were greeted with the beautiful decor to the alluring smell of hog roast, German sausages and mulled wine. Deciding we would first tackle the Bavarian food Village we went in search of some delicious foods and drinks. I was not disappointed with my choice of hog roast baguette with stuffing and apple sauce for £8, it was both filling and incredibly tasty, a definite recommendation. After sampling the food I decided to try one of the German lagers on offer which was equally delicious, the combination definitely hit the spot. Having sated my appetite we decided it was time to look at the plentiful amount of stalls selling Christmas foods, souvenirs and baubles. My friend was on the search for some small gifts for his family and managed to find a rather popular stall selling a range of artisan cheeses. Sampling a few of these we were both sold on a selection of them, ranging from charcoal flavoured to the rather festive cranberry-flavoured one. Taking our time to stroll through the market and lapping up the ambience that the market offers, we saw stalls selling Christmas puddings, and home crafts to all kinds of small and wonderful little baubles.
While the market is bustling with people it never feels overly chaotic or rushed. We wandered through the stalls and stands seeing what was on offer. Personally, I do not have much of a sweet tooth but for those who do there are plenty of options on offer, seeing waffles, crepes, and hot chocolate, as well as plenty of other sweets and treats. Towards the east end of the market, there is a fair for the kids to go wild in, with a helter-skelter, fun house and even a Ferris wheel. All in all the market definitely lifts the Christmas Spirit and although it is busy, the bustling nature of the market adds to the experience. I would absolutely recommend visiting this weekend if you get the chance as this is the last weekend that the market is open (10th/11th December).
If you would like to read more about the Bavarian Village and the food on offer check out the excellent review by Sam Lawrie, Kent OnLine.
