We are the West Kent Walking Group. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Discover that Dartford and its surrounding countryside is more picturesque than imagined on this circular walk.
Starting from Dartford railway station, this walk heads along the Darent Valley footpath to the Thames at Long Reach. It then heads under the Queen Elizabeth bridge to Bluewater shopping centre. After a lunch stop there - shopping is optional! - the walk returns back to Dartford via Darenth Wood and the Darent Valley footpath again.
The walk mixes the post-industrial modern day landscape of NW Kent with the scenic Kent countryside and great river views. Along the way there are reminder's of Dartford's past as we pass the site of old fever hospitals, gunpowder mills, chemical works and Wat Tyler's favourite pub.
The walk is largely flat, though there are a few busy roads to cross.
Parking is available at Dartford railway station, though the cost is £3.30. Nearby Westgate car park (DA1 2DH) is free on a Sunday.
It is possible to stop at Bluewater if the desire to shop proves irresistible and then catch a bus back to Dartford
There are a number of pubs in Dartford for an optional drink at the end. The Long Dog on Market Street is recommended for its real ales
Meet outside the main pedestrian entrance of Dartford Railway Station.
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