About the Heritage Harbour:
Sandwich’s maritime history reaches way back to Roman times reaching its zenith between the eleventh and thirteenth centuries – The Medieval period - when it evolved into the gateway to England, the place from where Royal invasion fleets departed for the Continent. And to which came marauders intent on plundering the town, on one occasion even murdering the Mayor. Since when the Mayor has always worn ‘mourning black when on mayoral duties
All this laying the foundations for the town to become the leader of the Cinque Ports and a major trading and shipbuilding centre. This has left a rich legacy of buildings, quaysides, vessels and maritime history in one of the country’s most historic towns.
Maritime and Visitor Attractions:
Sandwich Medieval Trust is an educational charity located on Sandwich quay with a number of projects including creating a replica of a medieval cog, the Nicholas. 
Historic vessels include a US cold war era patrol vessel managed by the USN P22 Trust
29th April 2023. The Quay was paid a 3 day visit by classic and vintage Gaff Rigged craft belonging to members of the OGA (Old Gaffers Association). This to much acclaim from members of the public crowding the quayside and visiting the town. Thus illustrating the value of heritage craft in the ‘power of attraction’.
Local history and museum: Sandwich Guildhall Museum
Visitor information:
Now and the Future:
Whilst it is ‘early days’,Sandwich Heritage Harbour Working Group (SHHWG), with the support of the statutory harbour authority, the Sandwich Port and Haven Commission (SPHC) is working with a wide range of local organisations on ambitious proposals for the Heritage Harbour, and already have the interest of the Town Council and Dover District Council.
We recognise the need to reform the ancient quay alignment ( Dover District Council property) replicating as far as is reasonably possible the medieval scene, which in doing so would complement the popular, and greatly educational, new medieval centre adjacent, with its promotion of ancient crafts, learning and perfecting by ‘doing’. This new mini hive of activity – already sowing the seed of curiosity - would attract more historic vessels and safeguard the town’s maritime history and its remaining physical assets. Such as the nearby Fisher Gate which defines much of a once fortified identity.
Alongside traditional and historic vessels using the port facilities, the Heritage Harbour proposals envisage boat owners and recreational users helping to preserve the working and historic maritime features of The Haven. This in the greater related area of the River Stour and townscape, while at the same time supporting existing waterside businesses such as boatyards, marinas, sail and cover makers, marine engineers, sailing club, etc. and to encourage new ones along with associated trades and skills and help develop apprenticeships. Other objectives include developing partnerships with local landowners, improving moorings and boat-launching facilities, better dredging and maintaining the highest standards of conservation, consistent with actually engaging in such works. The Heritage Harbour Group believes its rediscovery is critical for the enhancement of the character of the town, its quay and river in the years to come.