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About this place
Northfleet Lower Lighthouse is a small red iron lighthouse on the south bank of the Thames in Northfleet, part of the Gravesham district of Kent. It is a Grade II listed structure and one of the more unusual pieces of riverside heritage between Gravesend and the Thames estuary.
What is Northfleet Lower Lighthouse?
The tower is a skeletal lighthouse built in 1883 from riveted wrought iron and painted red. It rises about 16 metres. Trinity House put it up to replace an earlier light, and its job was to guide ships through the bend where Gravesend Reach turns into Northfleet Hope, the stretch of river leading up towards the Port of London.
Its appearance is what sets it apart. Instead of a masonry tower, you see an open iron frame, a type of riverside light that was practical to build on a muddy, industrial waterfront. Historic records place it among a small group of wrought-iron framed lighthouses that survive along the Thames.
Has it always stood in the same place?
No. The lighthouse originally stood at India Arms Wharf, beside the India Arms Tavern. In 1968, as development changed the waterfront, it was moved 282 metres downstream to the site it occupies today. The relocation is the reason you may see its original position mentioned in older descriptions.
The light itself also changed over the years. It started out lit by acetylene, was converted to town gas in 1975 and later switched to electricity.
Why is it listed?
The lighthouse was given Grade II status on 1 November 2006 (National Heritage List for England, entry 1392254). The listing recognises it as a surviving example of Victorian navigation engineering on the Thames. Heritage records describe it as no longer in use as a working light, so today it is a landmark and a piece of history rather than an active aid to shipping.
What can you see nearby?
Northfleet sits right next to Gravesend, a historic river town that has long been a gateway to the Thames. The wider area is a good fit for a half-day of exploring the working river: wide views across the water towards Essex, ships heading up and down the channel, and the industrial character of the lower Thames. The lighthouse works well as one stop on that kind of walk, especially for photography, since the red frame stands out clearly against the grey river and sky.
When is the best time to visit?
It is an outdoor structure on the riverfront, so a dry day with good light is the best choice. Early morning and late afternoon give the nicest colours on the water. Wind off the estuary can be strong, so bring a windproof layer outside the summer months.
Frequently asked questions
When was Northfleet Lower Lighthouse built?
In 1883, by Trinity House, as a replacement for an earlier light on the same stretch of the river.
How tall is it?
About 16 metres, built as an open frame of riveted wrought iron and painted red.
Is the lighthouse still in its original location?
No. It was moved 282 metres downstream in 1968 because of waterfront development. Its first site was India Arms Wharf.
Is it a listed building?
Yes. It has been Grade II listed since 1 November 2006.
Is it a separate building from Northfleet Upper Lighthouse?
Yes. The Upper Lighthouse is a different structure. This page describes only the Lower Lighthouse.
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