The best walks and hikes around Dartford

Yes, many of the walking trails in the area are loops, which makes logistics simple. For a shorter circular walk, the Lake 6 loop from Stone is an easy route of just over 2 miles. If you're looking for something more moderate, the Barge at Dartford Lock loop from Dartford offers a longer 6.7-mile walk along the river.

Dartford is very accommodating for walkers with dogs. Darenth Country Park is a popular local favourite for dog walking, offering wide-open green spaces. For a specific trail, the Wildlife Walk loop from Braeburn Park is an easy 3.6-mile route that explores local parkland.

Definitely. For a relaxed family outing, the Bluewater Nature Trail is a well-regarded spot with paths suitable for little legs. Another excellent choice is the Central Park, Dartford loop from Dartford, which is an easy and mostly flat walk through the town's main park.

Yes, several trails are accessible by train. For example, Farningham Road station provides a great starting point for exploring the Darent Valley. From there, you can access routes like the Farm Gate on Riverside Path – Old Weir on the River Darent loop, which takes you through the scenic Kent Downs landscape.

Many of the local parks and nature reserves offer parking. Darenth Country Park and Lullingstone Country Park are two popular options that have parking available, though charges may apply at peak times. It's always best to check local signage on arrival.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find everything from the flat, seasonal wetlands of Crayford Marshes to the gentle, rolling hills of the Darent Valley. Many routes, like those in Joyden's Wood, follow well-maintained paths through ancient woodland, while others explore the open heathland of Dartford Heath.

Yes, the main long-distance route is the Darent Valley Path. This 19-mile waymarked trail follows the River Darent from the banks of the Thames at Dartford all the way to the Greensand Hills near Sevenoaks. You can walk the entire path or tackle shorter sections of it.

The area has several highly-regarded spots for hiking. Some local favourites include:

• Lullingstone Country Park: Known for its beautiful scenery, ancient woodlands, and excellent visitor facilities including a cafe.
• Darenth Country Park: A popular choice for its open green spaces, wildflower meadows, and easy-to-follow paths.
• Kent Downs National Landscape: Offers expansive views and a vast network of trails through classic English countryside.
• River Darent Walk: A scenic and flat walk that is perfect for a peaceful stroll along the water.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of over 4 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from peaceful riverside paths along the Darent to the quiet, ancient woodlands. The mix of easy and moderate trails means there's something for everyone to enjoy.

While most trails are easy or moderate, there are options for those seeking a longer challenge. The River Darent – Farningham Stone Bridge loop from Dartford is a demanding 12.7-mile hike that can take over 5 hours, offering a full day of exploring the wider Darent Valley.

The diverse habitats support a range of wildlife. In the wetlands of Crayford Marshes, you can look for bird species like Reed Bunting and skylarks. The woodlands, such as Joyden's Wood, are home to various birds and small mammals, while the ponds on Dartford Heath are great for spotting amphibians in the spring.