Gravesend–Tilbury Ferry

The Gravesend–Tilbury Ferry offers a unique and historic way to traverse the River Thames, connecting the towns of Gravesend in Kent and Tilbury in Essex. This ferry service is more than just a mode of transportation; it's a journey through time, echoing centuries of history and tradition. The ferry is the last public crossing point before the Thames reaches the sea, making it a significant link for both locals and tourists.

A Journey Through History

The history of the Gravesend–Tilbury Ferry is rich and varied, dating back to medieval times. There were numerous ferries crossing the Thames in the area around Tilbury, with one notable route operating between Higham and East Tilbury. This particular ferry was owned by the Manor of South Hall in East Tilbury, which was itself under the ownership of Rochester Bridge. The most prominent ferry route, however, was the one between West Tilbury and Gravesend, owned by the Lord of the Manor of Parrock in Milton-next-Gravesend.

Historical records, including a sketch-map from 1571, show evidence of two jetties and a northward road crossing the marshes on the north bank. The marshes were crucial for sheep grazing, and it is believed that the ferry was used to transport animals and wool across the river. Despite the modest size of the boats depicted in 17th-century drawings, the long-established Gravesend market likely encouraged significant cross-river trade. Contemporary accounts suggest that one of the boats used was a hoy, a precursor to the Thames sailing barge.

In 1694, the rights to the Gravesend–Tilbury ferry were purchased by Gravesend Town Council. Around the same time, the governor of Tilbury Fort acquired the right to operate a ferry in the opposite direction. Initially, this ferry operated from within the fort but was later moved to a ferry house just west of the fort, now known as the World's End public house. Sailing and rowing boats continued to serve the route until they were replaced by a steam ferry service in 1855.

Steam and Rail: The Evolution of the Ferry

In 1852, the London, Tilbury and Southend Railway (LTS) was authorized to operate a ferry, though initially only for its own passengers. A decade later, in 1862, the LTS purchased the northbound Gravesend Town Council ferry and leased the southbound Board of Ordnance ferry. The railway company and its successors operated the ferry service until 1984.

The 20th century saw further developments, with car ferries introduced in 1927. However, this service was discontinued by an act of Parliament in 1964 following the opening of the first Dartford Tunnel in 1963. In 1991, White Horse Ferries took over the service, operating the MV Great Expectations, a vessel purpose-built in their own yard. This continued until 1995, when the ferry was transferred to their Southampton Water service.

Modern-Day Ferry Services

From 17 September 2012, the ferry service began operating from the Town Pier in Gravesend instead of the West Street terminal. The ferry, operated by Jetstream Tours until 30 March 2024, ran every 30 minutes between approximately 6 am and 7 pm from Monday to Saturday. The operation was subsidized by both Thurrock Council and Kent County Council, ensuring the service's accessibility and affordability. Bicycles were carried at no extra charge, making it a convenient option for cyclists.

Exploring the Thames

Taking the Gravesend–Tilbury Ferry is not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about experiencing a piece of living history. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the Thames, the surrounding industrial landscape, and historic landmarks like Tilbury Fort. The fort itself is a fascinating site, with its origins dating back to the time of Henry VIII. It played a crucial role in defending the Thames from potential invaders.

The ferry also provides an excellent vantage point to observe the bustling activity on the river, from cargo ships to leisure boats. It's a reminder of the Thames' enduring importance as a commercial and recreational waterway.

Conclusion

The Gravesend–Tilbury Ferry is more than just a means of crossing the Thames; it's a journey through centuries of history, a testament to the enduring importance of this waterway. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a daily commuter, or a curious tourist, the ferry offers a unique perspective on the river and the towns it connects. So, next time you're in the area, take a step back in time and enjoy a ride on the Gravesend–Tilbury Ferry.