Nightlife in Dartford

When you’re done mall-trawling at Bluewater, pop into Browns to put your feet up with a cocktail, bottle of wine or local ale. The stylish chain bar and restaurant also offers afternoon tea, breakfast, lunch and dinner options and is located just a short walk from the Showcase cinema complex.

As the name suggests, The Kent Cocktail Bar is the place to come if you’re hankering for a spirit or two. The stylish basement bar opened in 2010 and has quickly become the go-to bar for the area, ensuring the Gravesend venue is worth the five-mile drive or taxi from our Dartford hotel.

Closer to Dartford’s town centre is Orange Tree in nearby Wilmington, a lively bar with regular guest bands and DJs at the weekend, plus a large beer garden to enjoy the atmosphere in.

Dartford’s compact town is home to several recommended pubs, including The Malt Shovel and The Royal Oak. The Malt Shovel is a wonderfully traditional pub dating back to the 15th century. There’s no jukebox, no live sports, just a large bar stocked with real ales, home-cooked food from the kitchen, a beer garden for summer and a roaring fire for winter.

Alternatively, head to The Royal Oak, another venerable watering hole (this time dating back to the 16th century), but one that’s embraced modern culture with regular live music, pub quizzes and all the big sporting action, plus a sun-kissed patio garden and a wide array of food and drink.

Heading out into the countryside, Chequers in Darenth is a family favourite thanks to its great food, large garden and friendly service.

Just a few miles further south in Horton Kirby is the Fighting Cocks Pub. Don’t let the name fool you: this is the real deal when it comes to rural pubs, featuring a large bar with stained-glass panels and a gorgeous conservatory restaurant overlooking the large beer garden and the nearby River Darwent.

Lastly, The Wharf is a great option for families and carvery fans and just a few minutes from the Dartford Crossing train station. The large modern waterside pub has a kids’ play area, plenty of local ales, free WiFi and a cracking pan-global food menu covering all the culinary bases.

Regular clubbers will know what chain venue Atik has to offer, with the Dartford branch on Essex Road more of the same. The largest club in town offers parties every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night with a playlist spanning house, commercial dance and RnB.

Heading into nearby Bexleyheath, Nyne Lounge is a popular bar/club open until 1 am Friday and Saturday nights, with a cool playlist and even cooler cocktail menu.