Grimsby Heritage - The Dock Tower

The amazing Dock Tower stands over three hundred feet in height and around one million bricks were used to build it. It was originally erected to operate the lock gates, and then later was modernised to provide a low-pressure water supply to the whole of Grimsby's extensive fish market. It is said that the millionth brick is enclosed in a glass case.

The Tower was designed by Mr James William Wild and the engineer in charge of the building was Mr J M Rendell. The hydraulic machinery inside the Tower was designed by Sir W Armstrong. The Tower was built in 1851, one year before the completion of the Royal Docks. A plaque has been placed on the bricks paying tribute to the minesweeper crews of World War II, but for many Grimbarians, the tower will remain the true monument to the towns maritime heritage.

The unrivalled views from the top can be seen when visitors are allowed to make the gruelling climb up the spiral staircase on open days.

The Dock Tower is Grimsby's most famous landmark and has been given a grade one listed building status, ranking it along side such national treasures as Buckingham Palace and Chatsworth House.

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