Inner Dowsing Lightship

We absolutely loved this place. Unique accommodation, thoughtfully provided, lovely hosts, and just so perfect. The lightship is almost 200 years old and an incredible piece of history. The accommodation is perfectly designed; we had 'Crew Quarters 1' which is upper deck, no cooking facilities but otherwise perfect in every way, facing east and therefore getting the morning sun. We loved waking up to the early sun, and eating our simple rolls and jam (bought previous day from a bakery in town) on the deck outside our room. The lightship is fairly close to a big bridge that carries a lot of traffic, but sitting on the eastern side is as quiet as anything, and that also has the best view, towards Rochester with its river, castle and cathedral. Also of great interest to us is the fact that that view takes in the location of the old Short Brothers aircraft factory by the river - an amazing location that we realised the significance of only after we arrived. The Short flying boats graced the skies between England and Australia in the 1930s for the very, very rich, and then amazingly played a key role in protecting shipping in the Atlantic from the Luftwaffe and the U-boat fleet during World War 2. An incredible story. Our room didn't have a fridge, but Eunha stored our precious bottle of French champagne in her fridge and then brought it up to us in an ice-bucket with champagne flutes on our last night - that is service! We cannot recommend this place highly enough for location, service, peacefulness, uniqueness.

Very scenic location and a fascinating old boat. The owners are very friendly and make you feel at home. Breakfasts are superb. If you are a light sleeper bring ear plugs as noise from the motorway starts at 5 in the morning. Very good pub, the White Horse, in walking distance with excellent food (try the Kentish smokies), good beer, friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere.