Dartford Heath

Dartford Heath is a 314-acre mosaic of acid grassland, broadleaved woodland, heather and dwarf gorse, with records of its civic importance going back to 1660. Heathland birds such as willow warblers and linnets use the gorse and heather, while the woods hold green woodpeckers and red kites. Look out for harebells, lady’s bedstraw, orchids and the rare petty whin. A volunteer group works with the council’s countryside team on conservation tasks.

The council says the heath is unlocked at 7am and locked at 6.30pm; a charged vehicle release service operates outside those hours.