Wrapped in Chains

Grain Tower, Kent, UK

Visit collection: Wonderful Britain
Seaweed covered brick path, leading to Grain Napoleonic Tower, placed where the river Medway and the Thames merge.
Wrapped in chains Alone Outcast Flanked by the river's tidal paths Once a proud defender, requisite Time has rendered it obsolete Grain tower, defiant in defeat exploits the tide's daily retreat Luring visitors to its historical scene Across a path, a slippery green But be aware the mudflats are thick and the roving tides like to play tricks.
  • Grain Tower
  • No. 1 The Thames
  • Grain
  • Kent

Grain Napoleonic Tower stands defiant where the River Medway meets the Thames. Built as part of a defence system to protect from a perceived French naval attack. It was added to and used during both world wars. The massive chain once used in defence across the estuary is wrapped around the tower slowly rusting away. Today the tower stands alone, the only battle it faces is a constant battle against the elements.