Discover the Hidden Gems of Bexley, Dartford and Gravesend
Bexley, Dartford and Gravesend are towns located in the Greater London Borough of Bexley and in Kent. They are less than 20miles away from London city centre and are well conn
A History Buff's Guide to Bexley, Dartford and Gravesend
Bexley, Dartford and Gravesend are towns located in the Greater London Borough of Bexley and in Kent. They are less than 20miles away from London city centre and are well connected with public transport links, including close proximity to City Airport and the Elizabeth Line from Abbey Wood.
The towns have a rich heritage, with a number of historical sites that are well worth a visit. These include:
Hall Place in Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ is a Grade I listed country house (stately Tudor mansion) that was built in the 16th century. The house is surrounded by a beautiful park and is open to the public for tours.
Danson Park in 51 Danson Rd, Bexleyheath DA6 8HL is a large public park that was once the private estate of the Danson family. The park is home to a number of historical buildings, including a 17th-century watermill and a 19th-century bandstand. It has huge lawns for picnics and a big playground for kids.
Sidcup Place
Sidcup Place in Bexley is a Grade II listed building (mansion house) that was built in the 17th century. The house is now a museum and tells the story of the Sidcup family.
Red House, a National Trust site, in Red House Ln, London, Bexleyheath DA6 8JF is an iconic Arts and Crafts home of William and Jane Morris and the centre of the Pre-Raphaelite circle.
Chislehurst Caves at Caveside Cl, Old Hill, Chislehurst BR7 5NL are a series of chalk caves that were formed in the Cretaceous period. The caves are now a popular tourist attraction and offer guided tours.
The Gothic Bath House in 112 North Cray Road, Bexley, DA5 3NA was part of an estate built in the 18th century. The bath house can be visited upon appointment and is one of Kent’s oddest monuments.
Lesnes Abbey in Abbey Rd, London SE2 0AX are ruins of an abbey that was built in the 12th century and listed at Grade II. It has adjacent to it the Lesnes Abbey Woods which is a Local Nature Reserve and has woodlands, a chalk pit, a fossil pit and wonderful far views across London.
St Mary’s Church
St Mary’s Church in Manor Rd, Bexley DA5 3LX is a Grade I listed building that was built in the 13th century. The church is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
The Gravesend Heritage Trail is a self-guided tour that takes visitors around the town’s most important historical sites. The trail includes stops at the Gravesend Town Hall, the Gravesend Museum, and the Old Town.
The Gravesend Town Hall in 24 High St, Gravesend DA11 0AZ is an elegant Georgian mansion and was built in 1573. The town hall can be hired for functions and events. Situated right next to the newly restored Gravesend Borough Market and a stones throw away from the train station.
Rumour has it that his church, built in 1733, was the burial place of the famous Pocahontas. It’s a Grade II*-listed Anglican church.
Ruxley Manor in Sidcup DA14 5BQ was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, as a settlement of 20 households. It is now mainly known for its huge garden centre and retailers within.
The Erith Museum tells the story of Erith, from its prehistoric origins to the present day. The museum has a collection of archaeological finds, as well as exhibits on the town’s history and culture.
The Dartford Museum tells the story of Dartford, from its prehistoric origins to the present day. The museum has a collection of archaeological finds, as well as exhibits on the town’s history and culture.
The Saxon Shore Way is an ancient Roman road that is now a popular walking and cycling trail. The trail runs along the coast from Gravesend to Rye and passes through Dartford.
Dartford Heath is a large area of heathland that is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and horse riding. The heath is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and insects.
The Bluewater Nature Trail is a country park in Dartford and next to the well-known Bluewater Shopping Centre.
Dartford Riverfront
The Dartford Riverfront has been transformed into a popular destination for leisure and recreation. The riverfront area has a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a number of cultural attractions.
Dartford Crossing
The Dartford Crossing is an iconic bridge that is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Dartford. The crossing is a major road and rail crossing and offers stunning views of the River Thames.
The Dartford Stadium is home to Dartford F.C., a non-league football club. The stadium is also a popular venue for concerts and other events.
These are just a few of the many heritage sites and visiting places that can be found in and around Dartford, Gravesend and Bexley. These sites offer a glimpse into the towns’ rich history and culture, and are well worth a visit.
