A ferry existed for many centuries between Lower Higham (TQ 717 742) in Kent and East Tilbury (TQ 689 770) in Essex, and it is the only known ancient ferry across the Thames below Gravesend. Ancient approach routes converge on this point and may also have been served by a putative ford across the Thames in Roman times. The priory at Church Street received tolls from the ferry and was liable for a causeway and bridge to it - causeway still visible reaching the riverside opposite Coalhouse Point. (1,2). Additional references (3,4). Site photographs (5-9).

<1> Arch Cant 92 1976 123 (P Thornhill) (OS Card Reference). SKE36075.

<2> Thornhill, P., 1977, A Lower Thames ford and the campaigns of 54 BC and AD 43 (Article in serial). SWX7525.

<3> Spurrell, F. C. J., 1885, Early sites and embankments on the margins of the Thames estuary., p 289 (Article in serial). SWX7560.

<4> Evans, J. H., 1953, Archaeological Horizons in the North Kent Marshes, p 116-7 (Article in serial). SWX7447.

<5> 1998, Photograph (Photograph (Print)). SWX10995.

<6> 1998, Photograph (Photograph (Print)). SWX10996.

<7> 1998, Photograph (Photograph (Print)). SWX10997.

<8> 1998, Photograph (Photograph (Print)). SWX10998.

<9> 1998, Photograph (Photograph (Print)). SWX10999.