The best traffic-free bike rides around Dartford

The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Dartford offer a diverse range of surfaces. You'll encounter everything from well-maintained gravel paths and quiet country lanes to sections of farm tracks and even some singletrack. The area benefits from its proximity to the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing varied landscapes including rolling hills, woodlands, and open chalk grasslands.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the moderate Lullingstone Roman Villa – Shoreham Hill Climb loop from Eynsford is a great option, covering nearly 20 km with scenic views.

The routes vary in length and elevation to suit different fitness levels. You can find rides ranging from around 20 km, like the Lullingstone Roman Villa loop with over 300 meters of elevation gain, to longer routes such as the Cudham Lane Climb – Skid Hill Lane View loop from Bickley which is nearly 38 km with around 450 meters of climbing.

While the routes listed in this guide are generally moderate to difficult, the Darent Valley Path offers a fantastic, mostly traffic-free environment that is suitable for families. This 19-mile waymarked path follows the River Darent and is part of National Cycle Network Route 125, providing a well-surfaced option for all abilities.

The routes often pass through beautiful natural landscapes and near historical sites. You might encounter the Confluence of the River Darent and the Thames, the expansive Crayford Marshes, or the scenic Darent Valley Path. The area is also rich in woodlands, such as Joydens Wood, and offers views of the Kent Downs AONB.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for gravel biking in Dartford, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery as the landscapes change. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather. Winter riding is possible, but trails might be muddier, especially after rain, so appropriate gear is recommended.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, routes like the Cudham Lane Climb – Approach Road to Tatsfield loop from Chelsfield are rated as difficult. This route covers over 32 km and features more than 500 meters of elevation gain, providing a robust workout.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experiences around Dartford, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes and the diverse, picturesque landscapes of the Kent countryside.

Beyond the Darent Valley Path, areas like the Kent Downs AONB are renowned for their extensive network of gravel tracks, bridleways, and quiet lanes. You can also find specific natural areas with gravel tracks, such as Botany Marsh Gravel Tracks.

Dartford has good public transport links, including a train station, which can serve as a starting point for some routes or provide access to nearby towns like Eynsford, Bickley, or Chelsfield where specific tours begin. Always check local train and bus services for bike carriage policies and schedules.

Many of the routes start from villages or towns that offer public parking facilities. For example, routes starting from Eynsford, Bickley, or Chelsfield will typically have parking options nearby. It's advisable to check specific starting points for available parking before your ride.