The beauty of the Darent Valley has inspired generations
of artists and writers eager to capture the essence of this classic
English countryside with its rolling hills, luxuriant meadows and
picturesque riverside villages.
Walks for all the family
The Darent Valley is one of Kent's greatest hidden treasures
with fine walking opportunities for all the family. The waymarked
path is 19 miles (30.4km) long, following the meandering river from
the banks of the busy River Thames at Dartford through the
Kent Downs
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (link opens in a new window)
to the Greensand Hills above Sevenoaks.
And an excellent network of footpaths means there are numerous
walking experiences to be enjoyed ranging from gentle strolls
between historic inns to bracing climbs to the top of the Downs
with panoramic views across the valley.
Heritage and landscape
 Some of Kent's finest heritage from Roman
villas and Norman castles to historic palaces and stately
homes can be discovered along the path. And the fertile soils,
which attracted the Romans to settle in the valley, are still
important for agriculture today.
Cattle and sheep graze on the hillside and crops thrive -
including acres of lavender which scent the summer air. Look out
for farm shops and restaurants serving fine local produce as well
as local ales flavoured from the valley's hop gardens in village
inns.
Wildlife
 Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts are spoiled
for choice as the path passes through so many different
habitats including the Thames marshes, the chalk of the Kent
Downs, historic water meadows and established nature
reserves.
The river is popular with anglers and waterfowl flourish on the
water as it winds its way through picturebook villages.
Darent Valley Path guide
The Explore Kent full-colour guide to the Darent Valley Path is
an excellent introduction to the delights to be discovered along
the way including the many historic houses and gardens open to the
public.
The guide includes maps and details of three circular walks
highlighting particularly scenic sections of the route. The Darent
Valley Path guide is available from the Explore Kent
online shop. |