Where the North Downs meets River Thames there is a unique city which had its contribution in consolidating the bond between America and England. The town where is buried the legendary daughter of native American chief who married English colonist –Pocahontas.
Gravesend in the past a small village on the southern bank of river Thames and on the ancient Celtic rout called Watling street is now a thriving and economically busy commercial town. It is the path we should follow now because Gravesend is the host of the oldest and finest market in the country built almost 800 years ago.
Beside the Pocahontas statue situated on the St. George’s Church graveyard can offer much more attractions. For example the marvellous Towns pier built in late 1880s which is the oldest surviving iron pier which now has been changed into a exclusive restaurant.
Another landmark of Gravesend could be the; clock tower situated on the Harmer street. It was made to commemorate Queen Victoria’s long reigns and its shape is similar to the Big Ben’s located in the London.
Next thing that the city is famous for is Windmill Hill which is a marvellous vantage point because it is placed on the hill with panorama on lands next to Thames. It was a popular place for Victorian tourists to visit because of the camera obscura installed in the old mill. Now it has been converted into the heritage park.
For those looking for an active way to relax there was created a Saxon Shore Way. The whole trail has 262 km and its way runs through the Roman founded settlements.
If you are not a wanderer type you can choose from the wide range of the attractions that city offers you. There is a Bowling Alley in which you can relax with your family or have a exotic drink with your friends. And if you are lucky you can enjoy the concerts and music events from Livelihood entertainment.
As to the living in this humble town one advantage comes to the mind immediately –education. Gravesend can be proud of its secondary education schools like Northfleet Technology College and Gravesend Grammar school.
In all, Gravesend is a marvellous place to live and even more compelling place to visit because of its historical background of a village owing the river Thames its rapid growth and prosperity.
