Gravesend is a town in northwest Kent, England, on the south bank of the River Thames, opposite Tilbury in Essex. It is the administrative town of the Districts of England of Gravesham and, because of its geographical position, has always had an important role to play in the history and communications of this part of England. It still retains today a strong link with the river. The opening of the Eurostar railway station at Ebbsfleet railway station, and the fact that it lies with the Thames Gateway, add to the town's importance.