Earlier this year my lovely friends took me on a surprise stopover tour and one of my favourite stops was the Ship & Trades Hotel, Maritime Way, Chatham Maritime in Kent. It is a super maritime themed hotel, bar and restaurant with lovely well equipped rooms, interesting decor and good food. The stylish bar is at ground level and the large first floor restaurant has excellent views of the nearby Chatham Maritime Marina, one of the fabulous attractions in the area. The hotel staff were friendly and made us feel very welcome. This hotel only has 11 rooms so it is essential to book early to avoid disappointment.

The whole area has been rejuvenated and has a great feel about it. Close by is a popular Factory Outlet Shopping Centre and there is a Dickensian themed area which we did not have time to visit. We did eat at one of the many restaurants and had a nice walk around the marina to look at some of the beautiful luxury yachts and boats.

I would love to return one day.