The Obelisk

The Obelisk in Ramsgate, fondly nicknamed “The Royal Toothpick” by generations of locals, is a historic Grade II listed monument erected to commemorate the visits of King George IV in 1821. In appreciation of the warm hospitality he received, the King bestowed the unique title of “Royal Harbour” upon the port, making Ramsgate the only harbour in the United Kingdom permitted to bear this honour.

Designed by prominent port architect John Shaw, the obelisk stands 52.5 feet (16 metres) high and weighs a massive 100 tons. It was crafted from solid Dublin Bay granite (traditionally referred to as Dunleary stone). The foundation stone—which alone weighs 11 tons—was laid on 8 November 1822 by Lord Liverpool, the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. During construction, a hole was hollowed out in the centre where contemporary coins of the realm were deposited.

The completed monument was officially unveiled to the public on 19 July 1823.

Walks :

The Obelisk is often used as a meeting point for guided walks.

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