Dartford Hotels

Nestled in a valley along the River Darent, people have called this area their home since prehistoric times. Pilgrims trekked through Dartford on their way to Canterbury for centuries, and Dartford Manor was recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086.

Top sights

For history lovers, there's nothing better than taking a stroll through Dartford's streets to explore the area's hidden gems. St John's Jerusalem is one of the town's must-sees. Not only is it a beautiful setting, the building itself marks the remains of a 12th-century preceptory of the Knights Hospitallers.

Closer to the centre of town, you can spend some time browsing the exhibits in the Dartford Borough Museum, catch a show at The Orchard Theatre, or even discover Dartford from the perspective of Rolling Stone's Mick Jagger and Keith Richards on The Satisfaction Tour.

But if you'd rather spend your time in peaceful surroundings, make a trip to Darenth Country Park for a picnic or a leisurely stroll, or go out to the beautiful and unspoilt Darenth Woods for an afternoon trek.

Restaurants and hotels

Unsurprisingly, as such a cosmopolitan town, Dartford isn't short on eateries. There's a few great, traditional pubs worth checking out, including The Malt Shovel. The Jafflong is a popular Indian restaurant, and Bella Venezia is a lovely café worth visiting.

For budget-friendly Dartford hotels try the local Premier Inn, Holiday Inn or Travelodge. But if you'd like a little extra luxury, book into Rowhill Grange & Utopia Spa and make sure to try their afternoon tea, or try the Hilton Dartford Bridge.

With so much to offer, remember to explore Dartford when you visit. It's much more than a convenient base for the capital.