Top Places to See When Driving From Ashford to Dartford

Taking a road trip from Ashford to Dartford means there’s plenty to see along the way. From rolling hills to picturesque towns, this route offers an abundance of beauty that’s worth exploring. Whether you’re a nature lover or prefer to delve into the history of the area, there are plenty of opportunities to dive right in and explore. Here’s a list of the top places to see when driving from Ashford to Dartford.

Explore the Kent Downs AONB

As you begin your journey from Ashford, you’ll find yourself driving through the heart of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This rolling countryside stretches across over 800 square kilometres and is home to stunning chalk escarpments, meandering rivers and ancient woodlands, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna. The Kent Downs is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy nature at its finest. Make sure to stop off at one of the many quaint villages along the way, such as Wye, known for its traditional charm and stunning scenery.

Take in the Scenic Beauty of Leeds Castle

Just a few miles outside of Maidstone, you’ll find the stunning Leeds Castle; a quintessential English castle set on an island in the middle of a lake. Leeds Castle is often referred to as the “loveliest castle in the world”, and it’s easy to see why. With its tranquil gardens, interesting museums and maze, Leeds Castle is a must-see attraction and a real highlight of this route.

Visit the Historic Dockyard at Chatham

As you continue your journey towards Dartford, make sure to take a detour and visit the Historic Dockyard at Chatham. This award-winning maritime heritage attraction is packed with things to see and do, including the Victorian Ropery, the Command of the Oceans exhibition, and the HMS Cavalier – a Second World War destroyer that is now a museum ship. You can also take a boat trip along the River Medway and soak up the scenery along the way.

Discover the Lovely Town of Rochester

The small town of Rochester is located just a few miles southeast of Chatham and is an incredibly charming and traditional place. Rochester is known for its beautiful cathedral, ancient castle ruins, and picturesque high street, lined with independent shops, restaurants and cafes. The town has inspired literary greats such as Charles Dickens and is home to the annual Dickensian Christmas Festival.

Explore Danson Park and House in Bexleyheath

If you’re traveling with your family, then Danson Park and House in Bexleyheath is the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs. This stunning parkland is home to a picturesque lake, formal gardens, and a children’s play area. You can also visit Danson House, an elegant Grade I listed Georgian mansion where you can learn about its fascinating history and explore the house and gardens.

Conclusion

Driving from Ashford to Dartford provides a plethora of delights for those seeking adventure, history, or simply a scenic drive through Kent's beautiful countryside. With plenty of local attractions and distractions to be found along the way, this route is perfect for a weekend trip or a leisurely day out. This list of the top spots to see is just the beginning, and there's always something new to discover on this beautiful stretch of British road.