Gravesend, a town brimming with history and unique stories, has always been an intriguing spot on the Thames estuary. From tales of exploration and world-renowned figures to quirky local traditions, there’s so much to discover about this Kentish town. Here are some fascinating facts that might surprise even locals!
1. The Final Resting Place of Pocahontas
Gravesend is famously known as the burial place of Pocahontas, the Native American woman who became a cultural icon after traveling to England in the early 1600s. She tragically died at the young age of 21 in 1617 and was buried at St. George’s Church in Gravesend. Although her exact grave location isn’t known, a statue commemorating her stands in the churchyard, a powerful reminder of her journey and story.
2. One of England’s Oldest Piers
Gravesend is home to one of the oldest surviving piers in England. Built in 1834, the Gravesend Town Pier is still in use today and holds the title of the world’s oldest cast iron pier. It has become an iconic part of the town’s landscape and even today serves as a reminder of Gravesend’s longstanding connection to the Thames and the people who’ve traveled it.
3. A Key Port During Tudor Times
During the Tudor period, Gravesend was one of the first major ports of entry for visitors arriving in England. This led to a need for security and customs enforcement, and by the time of Queen Elizabeth I, Gravesend became an important stop for ships needing inspection and licensing. Its strategic position on the Thames made it a bustling, heavily trafficked port that saw people from all over the world.
4. The Ghost of The Leather Bottle Pub
For those who enjoy a good ghost story, Gravesend has plenty! One of the most famous haunts is the Leather Bottle Pub in nearby Cobham. This pub, dating back to 1629, is said to be haunted by multiple ghosts, with spooky sightings and unexplained occurrences. Gravesend has several such historic pubs and buildings, each with its own tales of ghostly visitors!
5. The Riverside Leisure Area and Promenade
The Gravesend Riverside Leisure Area offers a scenic Thames-side experience, with gardens, a children’s playground, and beautiful riverside views. The promenade, designed in Victorian style, is a perfect place to walk and appreciate the history and nature around you. It’s also close to the New Tavern Fort, an 18th-century fort used for defense during the Napoleonic Wars.
6. A Historic Police Force
Gravesend boasts one of the earliest police forces in England. The Gravesend Town Police was established in 1836, only a few years after the Metropolitan Police in London. This was due to the town’s busy river traffic and growing population, which made law enforcement essential.
7. Windmill Hill’s Stunning Views
Windmill Hill is a natural vantage point that provides breathtaking views of the Thames and the surrounding Kent countryside. It once held an operational windmill that served the local community. Today, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a panoramic view over Gravesend and even glimpses of London on clear days.
8. Celebrating the Thames Barge Race
Gravesend holds an annual Thames Sailing Barge Race, celebrating the rich maritime history of the town and its connection to the Thames River. This event brings historic barges from all over, each competing in one of the last remaining traditional barge races in the UK, preserving the maritime heritage that Gravesend is so deeply tied to.
9. Charles Dickens’ Connection to the Area
Gravesend and its surrounding villages, such as Higham, were beloved by the famous author Charles Dickens. He lived nearby and frequently visited the area. Several of his novels contain characters and settings inspired by Kentish locals and locations, adding a literary significance to the area.
10. The Gravesend Clock Tower
The Victorian Gravesend Clock Tower, built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, is a well-known landmark. Standing proudly in the town center, this clock tower has witnessed countless events and changes in the town over the years.
Discover Gravesend’s Unique Charm
Gravesend is a town with a remarkable past and a vibrant present. From iconic landmarks like the Town Pier to the legends of Pocahontas and ghostly tales, it’s a place where history and culture are deeply interwoven. Next time you’re exploring Gravesend, take a moment to appreciate the stories that make this town such a unique part of Kent’s landscape.
