Still wondering what to do in Dartford? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Dartford and book your hotel today!
Dartford is a bustling market town in Kent, with a history rooted in its location as a vital crossing point of the River Darent near the Thames Estuary. Today, it is best known for the dramatic Dartford Crossing and the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which link Kent with Essex and form one of the region's most iconic landmarks. The town itself offers a great mix of culture, history, and green space.
You can catch a show at the premier venue, The Orchard Theatre, or delve into local heritage at the Dartford Borough Museum, which features exhibits on the town's industrial past. For relaxation, the town boasts beautiful green spaces like Central Park, where the River Darent flows through, or the large, natural escape of Dartford Heath. Its proximity to both London and the Kent countryside makes it a convenient and practical base.
The best place to book your hotel in Dartford is in the Town Centre, which provides the easiest access to the main entertainment, history, and transport links. Being central also makes it simple to explore the nearby green spaces.
Accommodation near the High Street and The Orchard Theatre offers the most convenient location. Staying here places you within a short walk of the Dartford Borough Museum, local restaurants, and the main retail area. This is the ideal hub for an active, urban-focused stay.
For those prioritising relaxation and park access, look for hotels situated closer to Central Park or the main roads leading towards the Dartford Heath area. These locations offer a calmer atmosphere and are great for afternoon walks along the river. The area is also well-connected by local bus routes.
Dartford is served by a central railway station, Dartford Station, with frequent trains to London and other Kent towns. The station's central location means most central hotels are easily reachable on foot. The town is highly accessible by road, situated near the M25 and the Dartford Crossing. Local buses are extensive and necessary for reaching larger retail areas like Bluewater Shopping Centre or attractions slightly outside the immediate town centre.
Hotel prices in Dartford are heavily influenced by corporate demand due to its proximity to London and major commercial parks around the M25 corridor. The highest prices are consistently found during the mid-week, from Monday to Thursday.
The best value is secured by booking a stay over the weekend, as corporate demand significantly drops. The absolute lowest prices can often be found on a Sunday night. The town does not have a single major seasonal price surge, but a unique tip for Dartford is to check the schedules for major concerts or events at the O2 Arena in London. Despite the distance, large-scale events there can drive up hotel prices in commuter towns like Dartford, so avoiding those dates can help you save money.