Gravesend Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Gravesend. Get ready to explore the cultural and natural attractions of South East England in detail!


Introduction to Gravesend

Gravesend, located in Kent, South East England, is a charming town with a rich history dating back to the Viking era. Visitors to Gravesend can witness a perfect blend of the old and new with its vibrant culture, heritage, and modern facilities. From mesmerizing natural attractions to culturally important landmarks, Gravesend has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Gravesend

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gravesend Clocktower: A historic landmark built in 1887, this monument represents the townspeople’s love and respect for Queen Victoria.
  • Gravesend War Memorial: Dedicated to the local soldiers who lost their lives in World War I and II, the memorial is not just a piece of history, but also an emotional tribute to the great soldiers of the town.
  • Eastgate House: A beautiful 16th-century townhouse turned museum that provides a glimpse into the rich history of Gravesend.
  • Rochester Cathedral: A magnificent wonder of Romanesque architecture built in the 11th century featuring intricate stone carvings and stunning ceilings.

Natural Attractions of Gravesend: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cyclopark: A popular park that offers cycling, skateboarding, and other outdoor activities for all ages. The 6km cycle track is perfect for cycling enthusiasts, and the BMX track adds an extra element of thrill.
  • Shorne Woods Country Park: One of the most scenic and tranquil places in Gravesend, this park offers beautiful walking trails, cycling routes, and picnic spots amidst the lush greenery.
  • Jeskyns Park: A family-friendly adventure park with playgrounds, walking trails, picnic areas, and a dog park for furry friends.
  • The Thames Path: A 296 km walking route alongside the River Thames with stunning views of the river and the surrounding areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gravesend

Being a hub of natural beauty and adventure, there’s no scarcity of hiking and biking routes in Gravesend. Some popular ones are:

  • Thames and Medway Canal Circuit: A picturesque 8 km circuit, including the historic Thames and Medway Canal that passes through stunning landscapes of Gravesend.
  • Cobham Woods Circular Walk: A moderate 3.8 km walk that goes through the beautiful Longfield forests and lush green fields.
  • Riverside Circular Walk: A delightful and relaxing walk that takes you along the River Thames with stunning views of the Gravesend waterfront.

Best Things to Do in Gravesend: Activities and Tours

  • Take a Cruise on the Thames: Enjoying a scenic cruise on the Thames is an excellent way to observe the breathtaking views of the town and savour the local food and drinks.
  • Visit a Vineyard: Kent is renowned for its wines, and Hush Heath Winery, located in Staplehurst, is a perfect place to try some of England’s finest wines.
  • Indulge in Local Food: Gravesend has a vibrant food and drink scene, and food lovers can satisfy their taste buds with some delicious local dishes, including fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and roast beef.
  • Attend Markets and Festivals: Gravesend’s markets and festivals are some of the most vibrant and colourful showcases of its culture and traditions. Don’t miss out on Gravesend Borough Market or the Dickens Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gravesend

  • Day 1: Arrive in Gravesend. Explore the town centre and take in the beauty of the historic landmarks and buildings.
  • Day 2: Visit the local museums and historical sites, including the Eastgate House and Rochester Cathedral.
  • Day 3: Go on a scenic hike through Shorne Woods Country Park and enjoy a picnic amidst serene surroundings.
  • Day 4: Take a cruise on the Thames and indulge in the local food and drinks.
  • Day 5: Visit Jeskyns Park for some outdoor adventure and family fun.
  • Day 6: Attend a local festival or visit the Borough Market to experience the town’s vibrant culture and traditions.
  • Day 7: Relax and unwind at one of the local spas, or visit the Hush Heath Winery and enjoy some of England’s finest wines.

Food and Drink Scene of Gravesend

Must-Try Dishes

Some delicious local delicacies that you shouldn’t miss out on are:

  • Fish and Chips: A quintessential English dish that consists of crispy fried fish served with delicious chips.
  • Shepherd’s Pie: A traditional English dish made with minced lamb, vegetables, and mashed potatoes.
  • Kentish Ale Pie: A hearty pie made with tender beef and locally brewed ale.

Local Beverages

  • Biddenden Cider: Made in Biddenden, a town near Gravesend, Biddenden Cider is one of the most popular alcoholic drinks in the town.
  • Kentish Ale and Beer: Kent is renowned for its beers and ales, and there’s no scarcity of locally brewed beers in Gravesend.
  • English Breakfast Tea: A classic English breakfast tea made with black tea leaves, milk, and sugar is a must-try for any tea lover.

Where to Stay in Gravesend: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Clarendon Royal Hotel: A luxurious two-star hotel situated on the Gravesend waterfront with beautiful views of the Thames.
  • Premier Inn Gravesend Central: A popular chain hotel located in the Gravesend town centre, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • The Old Stable Yard Bed and Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast located in the countryside with beautiful gardens and amenities.

What to Buy in Gravesend: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kentish Cakes: A delicious and fragrant traditional cake made with dried fruits and spices, it’s perfect for a cozy afternoon tea.
  • Chatham Maritime Heritage Centre’s Handmade Ship Models: Perfect for those who love nautical themes and want to take a piece of the town’s maritime history home.
  • Kitsch Home Furnishings: A unique and quirky assortment of local homeware and antiquities.

Local Culture and Customs of Gravesend

Gravesend has a rich culture and traditions that reflect the town’s history and heritage. English is the most commonly spoken language in the town. The town has a culturally diverse community, and its history is deeply-rooted in maritime and military traditions.

Best Time to Visit Gravesend

The best time to visit Gravesend is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are at their best. August is also the best time to attend the annual Dickens Festival and experience the cultural vibrancy of the town.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gravesend

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Wear appropriate clothing while visiting religious places.
  • Keep the town clean and litter-free.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Litter or vandalize historic monuments and landmarks.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gravesend

Gravesend is a generally safe and peaceful town. Visitors are advised to take precautionary measures while hiking or biking, especially when going on unmarked trails. Take care of your belongings while visiting crowded places.

Health in Gravesend

Gravesend has health centres and hospitals available in case of emergencies. Visitors are advised to carry any necessary medication with them and take adequate precautions for seasonal allergies.

Getting to Gravesend: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gravesend

The nearest international airports to Gravesend are London Gatwick Airport and London Heathrow Airport.

Bus Stations Near Gravesend

Gravesend Bus Station is the town’s central bus terminal and connects Gravesend to several towns and cities in Kent and beyond.

Other Options

Gravesend is also well connected to the national rail network with high-speed trains to London, and other major towns and cities in Kent and beyond.

How to Get Around in Gravesend

Gravesend is a relatively small town, and walking or cycling is a great way to explore the town. Alternatively, local buses and taxis are available for transportation within the town and its surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Gravesend: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Canterbury: A beautiful historic city famous for its cathedrals and cultural landmarks, located just 30 km from Gravesend.
  • Rochester: A charming medieval town famous for its literary heritage and cultural landmarks, located only 13 km from Gravesend.
  • Maidstone: Kent’s county town, located approximately 25 km from Gravesend, is renowned for its stunning architecture and scenic natural surroundings.

Conclusion

Gravesend is a beautiful town in South East England that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. From the beautiful historic landmarks to the charming countryside, Gravesend has something for everyone. Plan your itinerary accordingly and let Gravesend enchant you with its vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and serene surroundings.