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Gravesham council launches new website to boost tourism

From dancing on the tables at a town’s first Oktoberfest to gentle riverside walks, a new website has been launched to help boost tourism in one part of the county.

Supported by government cash, it will highlight attractions around Gravesend, from walks along the River Thames taking in the town’s maritime history to the Gurdwara and the Kent Downs.

Hatch is found at the former Gravesend Borough Market
Hatch is found at the former Gravesend Borough Market

The new website, which can be found here, follows the recent opening of Hatch at Gravesend Borough Market, which has seen thousands enjoy its street food stalls, cocktail bar and Bierkeller.

There will also be a focus on experiences in the town, days out for people and events about historical figures – including tours of Charles Dickens’ home at Gad’s Place and vineyard or riverside walks.

Coming up next month, Hatch will host the first Gravesend Oktoberfest between Friday, October 4 and Saturday, October 5.

It will see the market transformed into a German beer hall with a live Oompah band, dancing on the tables and lots of Lederhosen.

Other events taking place in the coming weeks include this weekend’s Franklin Festival, with two days of sea shanties, nautical tales and free family fun alongside the River Thames at St Andrew’s Gardens in Gravesend.

Hatch launched at Gravesend Borough Market earlier this year
Hatch launched at Gravesend Borough Market earlier this year

And later this year UK garage superstars Artful Dodger will be taking to the stage for the Christmas lights switch-on.

Cllr John Burden, Gravesham council leader, said: “We are looking to spread the message far and wide that Gravesham is a great place to visit.

“It’s so easy to get here from London, the rest of Kent and further afield, and we have attractions for everyone, whether our visitors are into historic sites and stories, great countryside or fantastic food and drink.

“Tourism has an important role to play in our local economy, with the most recent figures showing it contributes £70 million.

“We know there is huge potential to increase that over the coming years, and our new campaign is just the start of making that happen.”

Gravesend’s first Oktoberfest will be found at Hatch next month. Picture: iStock
Gravesend’s first Oktoberfest will be found at Hatch next month. Picture: iStock

With UK government funding supporting the campaign, Gravesham’s attractions will be promoted outside of the borough.

Cllr Burden added: “We really should be proud of Gravesham’s position as the gateway to Kent, which is why we are shouting long and loud about everything we have to offer.”

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