Sandwich Quay
A hot and sunny Bank Holiday Monday for a change, and a busy day for us. We took Monty and Milo to another party in Sandwich, then took Gabriel and Dash to the playground in Sandwich Quay. This is a beautiful stretch of parkland running along the banks of the river - lots of boats, ducks and swans, and a play area for the boys. Ice-creams and fish & chips happened. I took this shot looking back towards the town centre, along the tree-lined avenue leading to the playground.
Sandwich Quay, situated in the historic town of Sandwich, Kent, has a rich and varied past. The quay was once an integral part of one of England's most significant medieval ports. As a member of the Cinque Ports, an 11th-century confederation established for mutual protection and trade, Sandwich played a vital role in the country's maritime history. Although the town is now located two miles inland due to geological changes, the quay remains a testament to its seafaring heritage.
The area surrounding the quay features notable historical structures. The Fisher Gate, constructed in 1384, is the only surviving medieval town gate in Sandwich and is both a Grade I listed building and an Ancient Monument. Nearby stands the Barbican, a 14th-century toll house at the end of the bridge over the River Stour, which once collected fees from those crossing the river. Another prominent building is the Old Custom House, a former administrative hub for shipping activities.
Sandwich Quay has witnessed several remarkable historical events. In 1194, Richard the Lionheart returned to England via the quay after his imprisonment by the Holy Roman Emperor. It was also the landing site for Prince Louis of France in 1216, during the baron's war against King John. The Battle of Sandwich, fought off its coast in 1217, added to its historical significance. The quay also saw the arrival of England's first captive elephant in 1255, a gift to Henry III from the French king, and the town endured a devastating French raid in 1457.
The quay has also played a part in more recent history. During World War I, it served as a transit point for troops heading to Ypres. Additionally, in 2014, an original copy of the Magna Carta from 1300 was discovered in Sandwich, alongside a rare copy of the Charter of the Forest.
Over time, the silting of the Wantsum Channel, which once connected Sandwich to the sea, had a profound impact on the quay and the town. By the late 13th century, silting had made maritime navigation increasingly difficult, leading to the gradual economic decline of the port. By the 16th century, Sandwich had transformed from a bustling hub of trade to a small inland town. Efforts to adapt, such as constructing bridges and modifying the haven, were ultimately unable to reverse this decline.
Today, Sandwich Quay preserves its maritime heritage through various attractions, including river cruises to Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre and tours of a Cold War-era gunboat. These activities, alongside its historical landmarks, continue to draw visitors and highlight the quay's enduring historical significance.
Canon Powershot S95, Lightroom, Silver Efex Pro 2
