The park was originally established as a defensive line in the 18th century to protect the Chatham Dockyard from land-based attacks.
The Naval War Memorial features a distinctive obelisk that is visible from several miles away, serving as a landmark for the Medway towns.
The site acts as a 'green lung' for the area, providing a continuous open space that prevents the urban sprawl of Gillingham and Chatham from merging completely.
Part of the park is maintained as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest due to its chalk grassland habitat.
The Grand Shaft, an 18th-century triple-helix staircase, connects the park level down to the historic dockyard area.
Great Lines Heritage Park is a 70-hectare urban park connecting Gillingham, Chatham, and Brompton, serving as a historic buffer zone between civilian towns and military installations. The site features extensive open green spaces used historically for military maneuvers and public gatherings since the 18th century. It houses the Grade II* listed Naval War Memorial, which commemorates thousands of sailors who lost their lives in the World Wars. The park terrain includes significant topographical variations, offering elevated views across the Medway Estuary. Defensive earthworks, including the remains of the Lines of defense, are visible throughout the landscape. It functions as a managed parkland for walking, cycling, and community events. Several historic structures and monuments are distributed across the site, reflecting its heritage as a former military training ground.
The base of the Naval War Memorial offering panoramic views of the river and surrounding towns.
The park is highly exposed to wind due to its elevation, so bring an extra layer even on sunny days.
Follow the marked heritage trails to find the historical military fortifications that are otherwise easily missed.
Utilize the designated pedestrian paths, as the terrain can be uneven in the non-landscaped sections.
Do not attempt to walk through restricted areas marked as part of the active military estate boundary.
