Darent Valley Con/fluences to Graves/end

Join Inspiral’s Epic Journey long the Thames and walk the marshland of the south bank from Dartford Marshes. This two part walk starts at Dartford Station and leads us out along the Darent River to its confluence with the Cray River towards the River Thames; then for those adventurous urban explorers continues to the River, to walk long into the evening and reach Gravesend, via Greenhithe, Swanscombe, Northfleet. The walk takes in an extraordinary inspiring landscape, across hidden watery terrain and through one of London’s most biodiverse habitats, while skirting the historic Thames-side.

Darent Valley Confluence (with J D Swann)

For the first afternoon walk – fully accessible at approximately 2 ½ miles long loop – we are joined by inspiral associate J D Swann who will guide us in all things orniphilosophical. This short walk reveals the contrast between urban environment and its marshy underpinnings, while allowing us to enjoy the bio-diversity of the watery commons.

Con/fluences to Graves/End (with Charlie Fox)

Then, as the walk to the edge of Dartford and Cray Marsh finishes with light refreshments,  those wishing to return to Dartford will be guided back to the Station. All other long exploratory walkers will be invited on an adventurous night walk along the Thames toward Gravesend.

As we pass under the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge dusk arrives, we head toward Swanscombe Marsh and the ghostly memory of our prehistoric origin.

Later on, as we pass through Northfleet by night, we hear again the sounds of Rosherville Pleasure Gardens. This evening into night walk is approx. 12 miles to arrive at Gravesend around 9.30pm.  Trains run to North Kent or back to London. There are earlier stops on way – including Greenhithe and Northfleet stations.

Please bring an evening picnic and/or refreshments and some sensible, comfortable walking boots or equivalent.

Depending on Covid rules – and group walking permitted – the walk will be managed in two parts by experienced walk guides. Both parts of this walking event start from Dartford Station but visit https://www.inspirallondon.com/events/ or Eventbrite ticketing for up to date information. Suggested Donation to support work of InspiralLondon CIC £6

Watery Investigations Launch as part of Estuary 2021 Associated Programme: see here