Last weekend, I took my 15-year-old daughter and her boyfriend on their first proper Urbex (urban exploration) mission, and what better place to kick it off than Grain Battery Tower?
If you’ve never heard of it, this derelict mid-19th-century gun tower sits about half a mile into the Thames Estuary, right at the mouth of the River Medway. It looks like something from a post-apocalyptic movie — standing alone out in the mudflats, weathered and rusted, slowly being reclaimed by the elements. In other words, perfect for a bit of exploring.
Reaching the tower is an adventure in itself. At low tide, you can walk across the estuary bed — flat, silty, and slightly eerie — straight to the structure. It’s hard to believe it was once a military fortification. These days it looks more like a relic from another world.
It was great seeing the excitement (and slight nerves) on the kids’ faces as we made our way out. They were full of questions and just the right amount of cautious curiosity. Definitely beats sitting indoors.
Up close, the tower is hauntingly beautiful. Rusted iron, crumbling concrete, and the sound of wind echoing through its broken chambers. But make no mistake — this place is seriously derelict.
Since the last time I visited, it’s deteriorated a lot. Many of the old metal railings have completely rusted away and fallen into the water. The ones that remain don’t exactly inspire confidence, more like a game of "how much do you trust your own balance?"
Inside, there are old staircases, half-collapsed rooms, and the constant reminder that time and tide are the true rulers here. We were careful, the footing is unpredictable, and some of the floors are definitely not what they used to be.
If you’re thinking of visiting Grain Battery Tower, here’s the number one rule: know your tide times. The estuary is very flat, which means when the tide turns, it comes in fast. The walk that took you leisurely out there can vanish quickly under several feet of water.
We made sure to head back with plenty of time to spare. Even then, you could see how quickly the water was beginning to return. It would be easy to misjudge and end up stranded, or worse.
Also, please be respectful of the site. It’s not a tourist attraction, it’s a forgotten piece of history slowly being swallowed by the sea. Don’t leave litter, don’t try to take souvenirs, and don’t go alone. This place is incredible, but it’s also dangerous.
Watching my daughter and her boyfriend take it all in was the best part of the day. They got to see a side of the world that’s raw, real, and a little risky — the kind of experience that sticks with you.
Grain Battery Tower is an unforgettable spot for urbex lovers and history buffs alike. Just make sure you're well-prepared, tide-aware, and ready to experience a hauntingly beautiful slice of Britain's forgotten coast.
Have you been? Thinking about going? Let me know your stories — or drop a question if you want tips before heading out!