Gravesend Blockhouse

The Gravesend Blockhouse was ordered by King Henry VIII as part of his device plan in response to fears of an imminent invasion by European countries.
The blockhouse was constructed between 1539 and 1541. Its strategic location at Gravesend allowed it to control river traffic and protect against potential attacks from the sea.
The Gravesend Blockhouse was a typical artillery fortification of its time. It featured gun ports for cannons, providing a formidable defense against naval threats. The structure was a square fort with bastions on each corner, emphasizing a practical and efficient design for its military function.
Throughout the Tudor and Stuart periods, the blockhouse underwent modifications to adapt to evolving military needs. It played a role in various historical events, including the English Civil War in the 17th century, during which it likely saw action. A 1778 report recommended that there be alterations made to the blockhouse and its defences, this consisted of remodelling the gun platforms and the construction of New Tavern Fort.
By the 19th century, advances in military technology and changes in strategic priorities led to the decommissioning of many coastal defenses. The Gravesend Blockhouse ceased to serve its original military function and was repurposed for other uses such as a magazine. Eventually in the 1830s the government made the decision to rely solely on New Tavern Fort and the blockhouse was demolished in 1844.
Between 1975 and 1976 the foundations of the blockhouse were uncovered during an archaeological excavation.
Photos can be found here: www.kentexplorehistory.com/po...