Milton Chantry

Milton Chantry is a historic building in Gravesend that features an original 14th-century timber roof structure within 19th-century brick walls. The building now houses a museum with displays of Roman finds and local objects spanning different periods.

The building was founded in 1322 by Aymer de Valence, Earl of Pembroke, originally as part of a leper hospital. Over the centuries it served as a chapel, tavern, and military barracks.

The name comes from the nearby Milton village, and the rooms inside display objects that tell the story of everyday life in Gravesend over the centuries. Visitors can see tools and pottery that belonged to people who lived in this area.

The building is located near Fort Gardens and opens on weekends and bank holidays from May through September. An audio guide is available, and there is no entry fee, so you can explore the displays at your own pace.

During World War II, the basement was transformed into a specialized gas decontamination chamber for civil defense. This hidden history is still visible in the original structures and shows how the war changed daily life for local people.

Location: Gravesham

Part of: New Tavern Fort, Gravesend, including Milton Chantry

Address: Commercial Place, Gravesend DA12 2BH

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/milton-chantry

GPS coordinates: 51.44390,0.37652

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:00