New Tavern Fort was built in the 1780s to defend the Thames from the threat of a naval attack from the French and remained in use for more than century.
The well-preserved remains of this Grade II* listed fort provide a fascinating glimpse into a time when fears of attack by our nearest European neighbours were at their height and are part of a series of defences that line the shore at Gravesham.
Today, visitors are welcome to explore the mysterious underworld work of the fortification and imagine what it would have been like for those artillery men stationed here in readiness to defend the realm.
From the lookouts of artillerymen to the magazines that kept those on the front line supplied with ammunition and full-size re-construction of scenes from Gravesend during the Second World War, the last time Britain was under threat from invasion.
Built during the American War of Independence to guard the Thames against French and Spanish raiders acting in support of the 13 colonies, it was later redesigned to defend against a new generation of iron-clad French warships.
In the 20th Century, the fort was disarmed and its grounds opened to the public as pleasure gardens but was brought back into military use when Europe was plunged back into conflict from 1939 to 1945. It was de-commissioned for the final time in the 1950s.
New Tavern Fort is open to the public with many areas of the site restored to demonstrate its defensive power from the 18th to the 20th century. Special tours for groups and schools can be arranged by appointment.
It is also the starting point for the Crossfire Trail, which links a fascinating group of military defences along the riverside in Gravesham, ending at Tilbury Fort.
For military history like this, make Gravesham your destination.
Adults: £2.50 Children: £1.00 Concessions: £1.00 Concessions entry qualification: £1.00
Address
New Tavern Fort
Commercial Place
Gravesend
DA12 2BH
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