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Defence against invasion!

Submitted by Kent Historic … on 9 July 2014

Brought to you by the Kent Archaeological Society’s Historic Defences Committee, the Friends of Grain Coastal Park and by Bourne Leisure Defence against invasion! Visit Slough Fort, Allhallows and the military landscape at Grain Saturday 25th October 2014, 1045-1530  

  1.  1045 Start with tea/coffee at the Owners’ Lounge, Allhallows Leisure Park, off Avery Way, Allhallows and an introductory briefing by Victor Smith. Then visit Slough Fort built in 1867 to stop the French (later the Germans) from storming ashore and racing across the Hoo Peninsula to capture Chatham Dockyard.  See also the emplacements for the later ‘pop-up’ guns and learn how they were directed on to target.

 

  1.  1330 After lunch break (bring your own food), leave Allhallows to visit the Grain Coastal Park.  There, guided by Michael Dale learn how the military landscape has become a coastal park.  Walk the verdant trails and see the fine river views showing how the defences cross-fired with those at Sheerness.  Hear from Michael of the rich history and the many curiosities of Grain.

  Visit information:  

  • You will need a car to visit both places.  There is parking.  At Allhallows you will be given a map showing you how to get to the car park at Allhallows.
  • Walking distances are very short at Allhallows but longer at Grain.
  • The paths are visitor-friendly at both places but you are advised to wear walking shoes or boots.
  • This is not a tour suitable for those with mobility problems.

  Booking only:   Visits are by booking only.  To book please either telephone Bourne Leisure at Allhallows Leisure Park on 01634 270385 or email craig.austin@bourne-leisure.co.uk to be placed on the visitor list.  £5 is payable when arriving at the Owners’ Lounge (cash or a cheque made payable to the Kent Archaeological Society)