An Act was passed by parliament, in 1749, giving approval for the construction of a new harbour at Ramsgate. Prior to that (dating back to Roman times) Ramsgate had been a very small fishing village, with only a wooden pier forming the tiny harbour. In 1820, King George IV embarked, with the Royal Squadron, at Ramsgate on his way to Hanover. In appreciation of the hospitality he received, he decreed that Ramsgate Harbour should have the right to add ‘Royal’ to its name. This status of Royal Harbour is unique in mainland Britain.