Tuesday morning we were on the move again, leaving Oxford for our next overnight in Canterbury. Two scheduled stops broke up the long drive eastward. We first stopped in Rochester to visit the castle [http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.14818]
and cathedral, England's second oldest dating back to 602. [http://www.rochestercathedral.org/cathedral/index.asp] Charles Dickens resided in the area and based a number of his books in Rochester.
We then spent a fascinating afternoon in Dover. It was a beautiful, clear afternoon and Calais, France was visible across the English Channel.
A few of the group hiked above the white cliffs.
Those remaining visited Dover Castle [http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.14571] and the secret wartime tunnels [http://www.dover-kent.co.uk/defence/tunnels.htm]. This was an afternoon enjoyed by everyone. Though the tunnels are much older, they were expanded and used by Winston Churchill and the British Military during WWII. The evacuation of Dunkirque, France was managed from there during 9 dramatic days when the allies were forced out of France. The events were simulated for us as we wondered through the tunnels with our knowledgeable guide from the National Trust. The hospital level was dug out specifically for the purpose of treating the wounded. The lower levels are much older, dating back to the 18th century for the purposed of defending Great Britain from Napoleon's army.
It was a day to relax and enjoy outdoor activity. We arrived in Canterbury in the early evening and spent the remaining day enjoying the company of the group.
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