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Castles & History, Parks & Walks

Swanscombe Heritage Park

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Former quarry where the 400,000-year-old Swanscombe skull was found, now a park with a heritage trail, playground and Thames views.

About Swanscombe Heritage Park

Swanscombe Heritage Park occupies the former Barnfield Pit quarry, where three pieces of the same human skull, about 400,000 years old, were found in 1935, 1936 and 1955. Stones mark the find spots and information boards explain the layers of deposits.

Starting at a giant hand-axe sculpture, an accessible trail winds through the landscaped and wooded former quarries. There is also a playground, a football pitch and open grassland with views to the Thames. The site is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and National Nature Reserve.

Accessibility

Explore Kent says the park has at least one accessible route but is otherwise less suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Where it is

Details checked against the venue on 29 October 2026. Opening times change, so confirm before you travel.

What's on here

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