Extra Care Living, Respite Stays & Community Hub
The Clarendon Royal Community combines extra care living, respite accommodation and a wonderful programme of daytime and evening activities, all under one roof. It's the perfect solution for forward-thinkers who are looking to downsize and secure their accommodation alongside care provision which can track their changing needs.
Now proudly part of Age Concern Gillingham, The Clarendon continues to be a welcoming space for residents, visitors and the wider community alike.
Our Heritage
The Clarendon Royal Community has a rich history dating back to the late 1600s. The Grade II listed building, originally named Clarendon House, was built in 1665 as a residence for James II when, as Duke of York, he was appointed Lord High Admiral. He married Anne, daughter of the Earl of Clarendon, hence the name Clarendon House.
In 1843, the grand building was converted into The Clarendon Hotel by William Eagle, a member of Rochester. Just a few years later, in 1863, the building welcomed its most famous guest to date, the then Prince of Wales. The eldest son of Queen Victoria, who would later become Edward VII, stayed at the hotel when he greeted his future bride, Princess Alexandra, to the shores of the UK at the Terrace Pier.
It was this visit which enabled the hotel to add the "Royal" moniker to its name, becoming The Royal Clarendon Hotel and now The Clarendon Royal Community. With its original features lovingly restored by its current owner in 2007, the Clarendon has lost none of its grandeur and has never fallen out of favour.
Directly opposite The Clarendon Royal Community are the foundations of Henry VIII's Blockhouse, built as part of the artillery defence established for the River Thames in 1540.
Today, the ground floor of this beautiful building is home to a stylish bar, café and restaurant, open daily to the whole community and run in partnership with Riviera Hospitality. Whether you're popping in for a coffee, enjoying lunch overlooking the Thames, or celebrating a special occasion, the Clarendon remains as welcoming as it has ever been.
Discover Gravesend
Outside the Clarendon, the centre of the historic town of Gravesend is just minutes away. A stroll through this fascinating market town, which reveals much of its historic importance in its architecture, is a must for visitors. Known to exist as far back as the Stone Age, Gravesend was mentioned in the Domesday Book and has played a key role in the River Thames' defences of London.
Places of interest within easy walking distance include Milton Chantry, once a leper colony and Gravesend's oldest building; the grave site and statue of Pocahontas in St George's churchyard; one of the oldest markets in the country; the New Tavern Fort and Gardens; and the lovely Promenade.
Tilbury Fort can be reached by a 10-minute ferry journey across the river, where Queen Elizabeth I famously addressed her forces before they departed to defeat the Spanish Armada.
With its stunning riverside setting and beautifully restored interiors, The Clarendon Royal Community is also the perfect venue for weddings, celebrations and private functions. If you're planning something special, we'd love to help make it unforgettable.
Get in Touch With Us
Whether you're interested in living at the Clarendon, arranging a respite stay, or simply visiting for a coffee by the river, we'd love to hear from you.