Dartford Heath
Dartford Heath is not just a place of extraordinary natural beauty; it's also a thriving habitat for a diverse range of wildlife. This lowland heath stands as one of the few remaining in the southeastern region, registered as Common Land, and holds the distinction of being an Area of Local Landscape Importance and a Site of Nature Conservation Interest.
Within this heathland, you'll discover three ponds: The Donkey Pond, The Woodland Pond, and The North Pond. These ponds are seasonal, often drying up during the summer months before rejuvenating with the return of rain. Springtime sees them teeming with frogspawn and other aquatic wildlife, playing a vital role in the local ecosystem. These ponds serve as refuges for insects and an abundant food source for birds. Additionally, they provide a much-needed bathing spot for local birds, aiding them in ridding themselves of parasites and accumulated dirt among their feathers.
Dartford Heath is a diverse landscape, featuring a mosaic of habitats, including acid grassland, broadleaved semi-natural woodland, heather, and dwarf gorse.
The dedicated countryside team oversees the day-to-day management of the heath. They work in collaboration with a volunteer group, known as "The Tuesday Group," which conducts hands-on conservation tasks on the heath. This work includes managing heather areas by removing fast-growing gorse, broom, bramble, and saplings of oak and birch, which pose a threat to the existence of heather patches. This diversified management of the heath supports the creation of a healthy ecosystem where wildlife can thrive.
Different sections of the heath are home to various heathland birds, including Willow warblers and Linnets in the Gorse and Heather patches, while the woodland areas provide a haven for green woodpeckers, red kites, and numerous other UK species.
Throughout the seasons, Dartford Heath showcases an array of Heathland plants. Keep an eye out for the delicate harebells, the fragrant Lady’s bedstraw, orchids, the rare Kentish plant known as Petty Whin, and the unmistakable red tinge of sheep's sorrel that blankets the heath in spring.
With its 314 acres, Dartford Heath has played a significant role in Dartford's history. Records date back to 1660, highlighting its civic importance and recounting special ceremonies held in honour of King Charles II, complete with regiments of horses.
For more information about the work carried out and how to get involved with the volunteer group, please email countryside@dartford.gov.uk.
Opening times
Dartford Heath will be unlocked at 7am and locked at 18:30.
Outside of these hours a vehicle release service will operate for which there will be a charge.
Booking Sports Pitches:
Our facilities are limited and you are encouraged to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Seasonal or individual bookings are possible.
For more information or to make a booking, please contact the Council on 01322 343472.