Introduction
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.
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.
- Visitor Access, Directions & Contacts
Telephone
01474 564422Access contact details
This is a municipal site for general public use. Please see: http://www.gravesham.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=3293
Owners
Gravesham Borogh Council
Civic Centre, Windmill Street, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 1AUOther Websites
- History
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.
Period
Victorian (1837-1901)
- Features & Designations
Features
- Structure
- Description: Beacon.
- Obelisk
- Key Information
Type
Garden
Purpose
Recreational/sport
Principal Building
Parks, Gardens And Urban Spaces
Period
Victorian (1837-1901)
Survival
Part: ground/below ground level remains
Open to the public
Yes
- References
References
- Kent Gardens Trust {A Presentation of Parks: A survey of amenity parks and gardens in Kent} (Kent Gardens Trust) 16 A Presentation of Parks: A survey of amenity parks and gardens in Kent