Gravesend

Gravesend is a market town on the south bank of the Thames in Kent. Victorian brick buildings line the central High Street, while an open plaza stretches along the waterfront with views of passing river traffic.

King Henry III granted the settlement a market charter in 1268, establishing regular trade. In the 17th century the town served as a stopping point for vessels traveling to open sea or returning from London.

The name Gravesend means 'end of the grove,' and the riverside promenade reflects the town's long connection to water transport. Local festivals and weekend markets near the pier bring people together to celebrate the area's maritime roots.

High-speed rail links reach St Pancras in central London in under half an hour. River boats also operate on the Thames, offering an alternative to rail for journeys upriver.

Pocahontas died here in March 1617 on her return journey to Virginia, and her burial site lies within St George's Church. The exact location inside the building is uncertain, as a fire in the 19th century destroyed the original records.