Exploring Kent's Past

It should not be assumed that this site is publicly accessible and it may be on private property. Do not trespass.

Monument details

Summary

Windmill Hill is a pleasure ground developed in 1840 around the last surviving windmill which burned down in 1900. The mill also contained a camera obscura.

Monument Types

• PLEASURE GARDEN (Post Medieval - 1540 AD to 1900 AD)

Full description

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There is an exciting macro-view of the Thames from the summit, where there is an historic beacon.

The site was acquired by Gravesend Corporation soon after 1920 and this grassy knoll continues to be developed and freely enjoyed.

Windmill Hill Gardens were opened in 1902 at the foot of the hill and opposite the Regency terrace, Clarence Place.

They serve for sport and recreation and are worth a closer look for the uncommon trees and shrubs planted there.

A memorial in a small formal garden commemorates the losses of two world wars and there is a classical granite obelisk erected to the memory of a local benefactor. Windmill Hill, by Rouge Lane, Gravesend, was developed by The Windmill Hill Pleasure Ground Company about 1840. The mill with its camera obscura attracted many visitors to the hill which was to form the climax of a grand town plan that was only partially achieved.

Site history events
1900: Last surviving windmill on the site burned down.
1920: The site was purchased by the Gravesend Corporation
(1)

Kent County Council, 1996, The historic parks and gardens of Kent (Kent Gardens Compendium) (Unpublished document). SKE12972.

<1> Parks and Gardens Data Services Limited (PGDS), 2005, Parks and Gardens UK (www.parksandgardens.org) (Website). SKE16061.

Sources and further reading