116-825: The waymarked path Darent Valley Path is 19 miles (31 km) long, following the River Darent from the banks of the River Thames at Dartford through the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the Greensand Hills above Sevenoaks . It runs through the villages of Shoreham and Otford . The route is well served by public transport making it ideal to break into manageable walks. Railway stations are situated at Sevenoaks , Bat & Ball , Otford , Eynsford , Farningham Road , Dunton Green and Dartford , and there are many bus routes along
232-423: A gunpowder mill .There were explosions here in 1745, 1790, 1795, 1796, 1799 and 1833. These killed at least forty people. Edsall went bankrupt in 1778 and the mills were purchased by Messrs Pigou and Andrews . The mill was a papermill by 1840, when William Wiggins was the owner. The malt mill was not required by Spilman, and he leased it to Godfrey Box of Liège. He erected an iron rolling and slitting mill (for
348-423: A gunpowder mill .There were explosions here in 1745, 1790, 1795, 1796, 1799 and 1833. These killed at least forty people. Edsall went bankrupt in 1778 and the mills were purchased by Messrs Pigou and Andrews . The mill was a papermill by 1840, when William Wiggins was the owner. The malt mill was not required by Spilman, and he leased it to Godfrey Box of Liège. He erected an iron rolling and slitting mill (for
464-492: A turbine which drove the millstones via a great spur wheel that was only 3 feet 3 inches (990 mm) diameter. The mill was house converted in 1971. TQ 520 621 This was the site of a fulling mill belonging to Palsters Manor. It was bought by the Passele family in the 14th century. The manor passed to Francis Sandbach in 1578 and was willed to John Polhill. He bought the fulling mill in 1602. The last mill on
580-437: A turbine which drove the millstones via a great spur wheel that was only 3 feet 3 inches (990 mm) diameter. The mill was house converted in 1971. TQ 520 621 This was the site of a fulling mill belonging to Palsters Manor. It was bought by the Passele family in the 14th century. The manor passed to Francis Sandbach in 1578 and was willed to John Polhill. He bought the fulling mill in 1602. The last mill on
696-486: A 'sailor's knowledge base' for future visits. During the period, the boat rested on a berm near the lock, accessible only at spring tides . Upon its departure, the feasibility of both creeks for access and dallying by a range of craft had been established. Pentargon was the first boat to undertake an overnight stay in the creek with crew on board since the late 1970s. To facilitate her tying up on first arrival volunteers dug away forty years of neglect and inertia to provide
812-426: A breast shot waterwheel of larger diameter. The waterwheel drove three pairs of millstones . Electricity replaced water power between the wars, and the mill last worked in 1947. The stones of the mill were said to have been caused to run backwards at one time through the mill being bewitched. The mill drove three pairs of millstones, the machinery being mostly of cast iron. The mill building survived until 1987 when
928-426: A breast shot waterwheel of larger diameter. The waterwheel drove three pairs of millstones . Electricity replaced water power between the wars, and the mill last worked in 1947. The stones of the mill were said to have been caused to run backwards at one time through the mill being bewitched. The mill drove three pairs of millstones, the machinery being mostly of cast iron. The mill building survived until 1987 when
1044-613: A cast iron waterwheel which drove three pairs of millstones. A steam engine provided auxiliary power. In 1894, roller milling plant was installed but milling ceased in 1905. The building was severely damaged in the Great Storm of 1987. TQ 558 714 Darenth Paper Mill was working until 1931 when it was taken over by Messrs Portals Ltd, of Laverstoke , Hampshire . In 1910, it was in the occupation of Messrs T H Saunders & Co Ltd, also at Hawley Mills and Beech and Rye Mills, High Wycombe , Buckinghamshire . The breast shot waterwheel
1160-553: A cast iron waterwheel which drove three pairs of millstones. A steam engine provided auxiliary power. In 1894, roller milling plant was installed but milling ceased in 1905. The building was severely damaged in the Great Storm of 1987. TQ 558 714 Darenth Paper Mill was working until 1931 when it was taken over by Messrs Portals Ltd, of Laverstoke , Hampshire . In 1910, it was in the occupation of Messrs T H Saunders & Co Ltd, also at Hawley Mills and Beech and Rye Mills, High Wycombe , Buckinghamshire . The breast shot waterwheel
1276-452: A chimney 230 feet (70 m) high, which is a listed building . The mill was last used as a factory and closed in 2003, with plans being put forward for conversion to housing use in 2005. The chimney dates to 1880. TQ 559 696 This corn mill was of the 19th century. The cast iron breast shot waterwheel was 10 feet (3.05 m) by 6 feet (1.83 m) carried on a 5 inches (130 mm) square axle. An unusual feature of this mill
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#17327729092831392-452: A chimney 230 feet (70 m) high, which is a listed building . The mill was last used as a factory and closed in 2003, with plans being put forward for conversion to housing use in 2005. The chimney dates to 1880. TQ 559 696 This corn mill was of the 19th century. The cast iron breast shot waterwheel was 10 feet (3.05 m) by 6 feet (1.83 m) carried on a 5 inches (130 mm) square axle. An unusual feature of this mill
1508-423: A choice of routes, both very pretty in their own way. The route above the village which is first encountered passes close to a bench offering views across the valley, while the lower route close to the river has its own charm walking on the metaled path to the village outskirts. Leaving Shoreham, the path follows the river closely as it heads through pleasant countryside towards Eynsford . At your next junction with
1624-467: A clean quayside and temporary mooring in the lock. This work was extended in 2016 by a volunteer lengthsman Hugh Nesbitt. who is a skilled amateur archaeologist. In February 2016, Network Rail engineers removed trees at the top of Crayford Creek, re-establishing access to the "End of Navigation". Crayford Creek is considered capable of development for masted craft unable to proceed to Dartford because of Bob Dunn Bridge. Dartford library and museum provides
1740-498: A forge here. The mill was rebuilt by Henry Hall in 1820 as a paper mill. Paper from this mill was used to print The Sphere and The Tatler ; photographs of the paper making process at the mill were used in the first edition of The Children's Encyclopedia . Henry Hall was the proprietor in 1840. An illustration of the machine house c.1880 can be seen here Archived 22 October 2007 at the Wayback Machine . The mill has
1856-434: A forge here. The mill was rebuilt by Henry Hall in 1820 as a paper mill. Paper from this mill was used to print The Sphere and The Tatler ; photographs of the paper making process at the mill were used in the first edition of The Children's Encyclopedia . Henry Hall was the proprietor in 1840. An illustration of the machine house c.1880 can be seen here Archived 22 October 2007 at the Wayback Machine . The mill has
1972-569: A laundry, and the waterwheel was removed c. 1914 to be replaced by steam power. The mill was demolished in October 1969. TQ 499 560 Chipstead Mill was a four-storey building which had been enlarged in the late 19th century. It worked until after the Second World War, but the machinery had been removed by 1950. The waterwheel was overshot and drove two pairs of French Burr millstones. A steam engine provided auxiliary power until it
2088-447: A laundry, and the waterwheel was removed c. 1914 to be replaced by steam power. The mill was demolished in October 1969. TQ 499 560 Chipstead Mill was a four-storey building which had been enlarged in the late 19th century. It worked until after the Second World War, but the machinery had been removed by 1950. The waterwheel was overshot and drove two pairs of French Burr millstones. A steam engine provided auxiliary power until it
2204-628: A modern zenith during the Industrial revolution and beyond. In 1835, almost 60,000 long tons (61,000 t) was carried in or out, servicing and supporting considerable industrial activity. Navigational factors meant that single cargoes were limited to 50 long tons (51 t) even on spring tides. A ship canal was proposed in the early 1800s but failed to achieve momentum. In 1839 a new proposal achieved an Act of Parliament allowing development to proceed and tolls were levied from completion in 1844. The work included straightening, dredging and shortening
2320-472: A monopoly for his paper by manipulating the favour and patronage of successive monarchs. Thomas Churchyard wrote a long poem in 1588, the first description of the papermaking process. Spielman employed 600 men, mainly Germans. The mills remained in the Spilman family until 1679, then a Mr Blackman was the owner in 1686 but he was bankrupt by 1739. Messrs. Pike and Edsall purchased the mill and converted it into
2436-417: A monopoly for his paper by manipulating the favour and patronage of successive monarchs. Thomas Churchyard wrote a long poem in 1588, the first description of the papermaking process. Spielman employed 600 men, mainly Germans. The mills remained in the Spilman family until 1679, then a Mr Blackman was the owner in 1686 but he was bankrupt by 1739. Messrs. Pike and Edsall purchased the mill and converted it into
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#17327729092832552-650: A number of self-seeded trees, lopped others and removed debris from the banks. The trust (termed Dartford and Crayford Restoration Trust) is an offshoot of the Northfleet Harbour Restoration Trust. In April 2015 a narrowboat arrived in Dartford Creek, with a crew of four canal skippers, to establish the feasibility of canal-boats visiting and by extension boats from the Medway , the non-tidal Thames and various sailing clubs along
2668-516: A peppercorn rent to the Prioress of Dartford Nunnery. A wheat mill and a malt mill were released to one George Tasser in 1534. William Vaughan received them from the Crown in 1546 and the mills reverted to the Crown when he died in 1580. The two mills were granted to John Spilman (later Sir John Spilman) by the Crown in 1581. In 1588, Spilman converted the corn mill into a paper mill, and obtained
2784-408: A peppercorn rent to the Prioress of Dartford Nunnery. A wheat mill and a malt mill were released to one George Tasser in 1534. William Vaughan received them from the Crown in 1546 and the mills reverted to the Crown when he died in 1580. The two mills were granted to John Spilman (later Sir John Spilman) by the Crown in 1581. In 1588, Spilman converted the corn mill into a paper mill, and obtained
2900-478: A road (Redmans Lane), cross the road diagonally to your left, climb 5 or six steps, and follow the path along the field edge towards your right, which is much more pleasant & safer than the road below. At the end of the path, the route passes the rear of the Lullingstone visitor centre, which houses a small restaurant & gift shop. The nearby 'Hop shop' also supplies local produce & gifts. The path for
3016-484: A saw mill in its final years of operation. The mill last worked for trade in 1900. TQ 556 677 This installation was of the late 19th century. A turbine drove a generating plant to provide electricity to Franks Hall . After it ceased to be used, the turbine is said to have been installed in Westminster Mill. TQ 560 685 This was a corn mill which stood upstream of the paper mill. Henry Knight
3132-417: A saw mill in its final years of operation. The mill last worked for trade in 1900. TQ 556 677 This installation was of the late 19th century. A turbine drove a generating plant to provide electricity to Franks Hall . After it ceased to be used, the turbine is said to have been installed in Westminster Mill. TQ 560 685 This was a corn mill which stood upstream of the paper mill. Henry Knight
3248-471: A set of pumps to supply Westerham. An average of 25,000 imperial gallons (110,000 L) could be supplied. The milling machinery was removed in 1936 and during the Second World War a doodlebug landed nearby and blew the roof of the mill off. The derelict building stood in April 1954, but had been demolished by July 1960. TQ 449 540 This corn mill had an external cast iron overshot waterwheel carried on
3364-406: A short distance from the route. A private driveway immediately next to the river is the route from Otford, and this quickly changes to footpaths with stiles. Although the river is quickly lost from sight amongst trees & undergrowth, the river valley is very pretty. This well signposted section of the route passes through a golf course before entering the outskirts of Shoreham . Shoreham provides
3480-558: A small building of 17 feet 6 inches (5.33 m) square and had been demolished by 1955. Little is known of the machinery except that the upright shaft was wooden and of 11.5 inches (290 mm) diameter. The wooden great spur wheel was of compass arm construction. TQ 461 535 This water powered pump was driven by a cast iron high breast shot waterwheel of 16 feet (4.88 m) by 3 feet 5 inches (1.04 m). A 6 feet (1.83 m) diameter cast iron spur geared pitwheel drove two ram pumps. The pump dated from 1858 and
3596-558: A small building of 17 feet 6 inches (5.33 m) square and had been demolished by 1955. Little is known of the machinery except that the upright shaft was wooden and of 11.5 inches (290 mm) diameter. The wooden great spur wheel was of compass arm construction. TQ 461 535 This water powered pump was driven by a cast iron high breast shot waterwheel of 16 feet (4.88 m) by 3 feet 5 inches (1.04 m). A 6 feet (1.83 m) diameter cast iron spur geared pitwheel drove two ram pumps. The pump dated from 1858 and
Darent Valley Path - Misplaced Pages Continue
3712-518: A small road & heading diagonally down the hill to Lullingstone Lane which is followed to the right before turning left into Sparepenny Lane. After about 100 metres a new pathway has been created parallel to the road, just to its right. Follow this path for most of the length of Sparepenny Lane, before returning to the road, turning right, and walking down the hill in Farningham to its junction with Dartford Road. The path leaves Farningham through
3828-571: A surprise given the breadth of the valley it runs through. The "proto-Darent" was much larger than today's trickle but the River Medway , through erosion of the soft chalk and clays of the North Downs /Western Weald , has captured much of the headwaters which once supplied the Darent. In 1989, concerned individuals realised that almost all flow through Dartford had ceased. The River Darent
3944-481: A volunteer lengthsman Hugh Nesbitt. who is a skilled amateur archaeologist. In February 2016, Network Rail engineers removed trees at the top of Crayford Creek, re-establishing access to the "End of Navigation". Crayford Creek is considered capable of development for masted craft unable to proceed to Dartford because of Bob Dunn Bridge. Dartford library and museum provides a wealth of evidence that both creeks have been used for trade since pre-Roman times. Trade reached
4060-414: A wealth of evidence that both creeks have been used for trade since pre-Roman times. Trade reached a modern zenith during the Industrial revolution and beyond. In 1835, almost 60,000 long tons (61,000 t) was carried in or out, servicing and supporting considerable industrial activity. Navigational factors meant that single cargoes were limited to 50 long tons (51 t) even on spring tides. A ship canal
4176-467: A wooden axle. The mill was working up to the outbreak of the First World War and demolished in the 1930s. It had two pairs of millstones . TQ 447 532 Squerryes, or Spring Shaw Mill was a corn mill with a cast iron overshot waterwheel some 9 or 10 feet (2.74 or 3.05 m) diameter and 3 feet (0.91 m) wide. The mill was marked as disused on the 1895 6" Ordnance Survey map. It was
4292-402: A wooden axle. The mill was working up to the outbreak of the First World War and demolished in the 1930s. It had two pairs of millstones . TQ 447 532 Squerryes, or Spring Shaw Mill was a corn mill with a cast iron overshot waterwheel some 9 or 10 feet (2.74 or 3.05 m) diameter and 3 feet (0.91 m) wide. The mill was marked as disused on the 1895 6" Ordnance Survey map. It was
4408-670: Is an offshoot of the Northfleet Harbour Restoration Trust. In April 2015 a narrowboat arrived in Dartford Creek, with a crew of four canal skippers, to establish the feasibility of canal-boats visiting and by extension boats from the Medway , the non-tidal Thames and various sailing clubs along the Thames estuary. This was the first time in over forty years that a registered ship lay over in Dartford Creek. Pentargon (SSR160910) returned in June 2015, familiarising more canalboat skippers, and stayed until October. Weeks of tide-waiting established
4524-539: Is being addressed in the tidal section by a group of concerned locals, the "Friends of Dartford and Crayford Creeks". As of mid-2016 , a trust was being formed to promote regeneration and give formal recognition to the protection of this valuable public amenity. Currently the tidal section is being furbished and improved by volunteers of "Friends of Dartford and Crayford Creek" to permit marine traffic, such as narrowboats and leisure cruisers to sail up to Steam Crane Wharf and beyond, to overnight or stay awhile. Much mud
4640-417: Is frequently found as the spelling of the river's name in older books and maps, Bartholomew's Canals and River of England being one example. Bartholomew's Gazetteer (1954) demonstrates that Darent means "clear water", a result of it springing from and running through chalk. The purity of the water was a major factor in the development of paper and pharmaceuticals in the area. Darenth Parish (through which
4756-474: Is recorded as having a waterwheel 18 feet 3 inches (5.56 m) by 8 feet (2.44 m). The mill suffered two fires in the 20th century but was rebuilt. It was working until 1952 but has now been demolished. TQ 545 670 A mill has been on this site since Domesday. In the 15th century the mill was in the possession of the Roper family, Sir Anthony Roper being charged with "pulling down and allowing
Darent Valley Path - Misplaced Pages Continue
4872-422: Is recorded as having a waterwheel 18 feet 3 inches (5.56 m) by 8 feet (2.44 m). The mill suffered two fires in the 20th century but was rebuilt. It was working until 1952 but has now been demolished. TQ 545 670 A mill has been on this site since Domesday. In the 15th century the mill was in the possession of the Roper family, Sir Anthony Roper being charged with "pulling down and allowing
4988-611: Is tidal and, just before entering the Thames, receives the waters of the River Cray at Dartford & Crayford Marshes where the rivers form administrative boundaries between Greater London and Kent , (specifically, the London Borough of Bexley and the Kentish borough of Dartford ). The Darent enters Long Reach to the east of Crayford Ness. Kent County Council has signposted a 19-mile (31 km) walking route along
5104-490: Is used by joggers, cyclists, walkers, dog walkers and curious adventurers, availing themselves of the Darent Valley Path to access or view the river's amenities, such as they are. This lack of attention is being addressed in the tidal section by a group of concerned locals, the "Friends of Dartford and Crayford Creeks". As of mid-2016 , a trust was being formed to promote regeneration and give formal recognition to
5220-443: The River Darent by "Nelson's Row" slipway which is used by kayakers as the only access facility on the "Esat Bank". Turn immediately left on crossing the bridge and follow the path along the east bank of the river, behind industrial estates. A specially built walkway further along places you almost directly over the river and in sight of the ruckings of Dartford Lock, as The Darent Valley Path heads into marsh land. The Path drops under
5336-511: The A206, before following the flood defences out to Dartford Flood Barrier where it joins the River Thames . Map of the route using OpenStreetMap data - Highlighted map of Darent Valley Footpath River Darent The Darent is a Kentish tributary of the River Thames and takes the waters of the River Cray as a tributary in the tidal portion of the Darent near Crayford. ' Darenth '
5452-476: The Darent between the Greensand Hills above Sevenoaks and the Thames and named it the Darent Valley Path . The route receives no obvious attention from councils or 'focus' groups although all or part is used by joggers, cyclists, walkers, dog walkers and curious adventurers, availing themselves of the Darent Valley Path to access or view the river's amenities, such as they are. This lack of attention
5568-409: The Darent flows 21 miles (34 km) east then north by Otford and Shoreham , past the castle and the ruined Roman villa at Lullingstone , then by Eynsford , Farningham , Horton Kirby , South Darenth , Sutton-at-Hone , Darenth , and eventually to Dartford , whence it proceeds a final two miles as a tidal estuary until it drops into the Thames at Long Reach . North of Dartford , the Darent
5684-425: The Thames estuary. This was the first time in over forty years that a registered ship lay over in Dartford Creek. Pentargon (SSR160910) returned in June 2015, familiarising more canalboat skippers, and stayed until October. Weeks of tide-waiting established a 'sailor's knowledge base' for future visits. During the period, the boat rested on a berm near the lock, accessible only at spring tides . Upon its departure,
5800-596: The area. Darenth Parish (through which the river flows) derives from a Celtic phrase 'stream where oak -trees grow' (Irish: "dair" = 'oak-tree', "abha" = river) (compare e.g." Derwent "). The landscapes of the valley were painted in a visionary manner by the Victorian artist Samuel Palmer during the mid-1800s. Fed by springs from the greensand hills south of Westerham in Kent and below Limpsfield Chart in Surrey ,
5916-528: The bottom of the field and come out near the church at bottom of Darenth Hill. Carefully cross this busy road and enter Darenth Road, opposite, which is followed to the footpath at its end. The path returns to follow the river before you are forced away and along the A225 Hawley Road for several hundred metres, to pass under the A2. Rejoin the path leading away from the road at the back of the recycle bins in
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#17327729092836032-449: The castle and the ruined Roman villa at Lullingstone , then by Eynsford , Farningham , Horton Kirby , South Darenth , Sutton-at-Hone , Darenth , and eventually to Dartford , whence it proceeds a final two miles as a tidal estuary until it drops into the Thames at Long Reach . North of Dartford , the Darent is tidal and, just before entering the Thames, receives the waters of the River Cray at Dartford & Crayford Marshes where
6148-410: The feasibility of both creeks for access and dallying by a range of craft had been established. Pentargon was the first boat to undertake an overnight stay in the creek with crew on board since the late 1970s. To facilitate her tying up on first arrival volunteers dug away forty years of neglect and inertia to provide a clean quayside and temporary mooring in the lock. This work was extended in 2016 by
6264-439: The first bridge was constructed during the reign of Henry IV (1399–1413). That bridge survived into the 1700s. Today's river is not much more than a stream apart from in conditions of spate, a surprise given the breadth of the valley it runs through. The "proto-Darent" was much larger than today's trickle but the River Medway , through erosion of the soft chalk and clays of the North Downs /Western Weald , has captured much of
6380-457: The ford existed even before the Roman period. Tarentefort itself flourished through the Roman period AD50 - AD 450. A ferry controlled by a hermit was established c.1235 and survived until 1518, long after the first bridge was constructed during the reign of Henry IV (1399–1413). That bridge survived into the 1700s. Today's river is not much more than a stream apart from in conditions of spate,
6496-544: The growing greeds of adjacent towns and even London Boroughs. Since 1989, much work has been [claimed to have been] carried out to rectify this situation, including the shutting down of a number of boreholes by the Environment Agency . This is documented in Dartford Library by Environment Agency documents lodged there. A sculpture, unveiled in 2004, celebrated the renewed life of the river, depicting
6612-417: The headwaters which once supplied the Darent. In 1989, concerned individuals realised that almost all flow through Dartford had ceased. The River Darent was later recognised officially as the 'lowest flowing' river in the country. Wildlife was decimated but the reason became apparent as soon as the problem was addressed. Increasing quantities of water were being diverted by the then Rivers Authority to supply
6728-484: The lay by, & follow the path beside the River Darent as it passes into Dartford , going close to the industrial estate before reaching Dartford. Cross Powder Mill Lane, and follow the path between the lakes and river, heading to the foot tunnel passing under the busy & dangerous Princes Road. Princes Road marks the boundary of Central Park through which the Darent Valley Way passes, exiting beside
6844-473: The manufacture of nails; the first in England) between 1590 and 1595, which by 1758 had two waterwheels, one working the upper roller, the other working the lower rollers and a guillotine. A company of "white paper makers" was established here in 1694 and during the 18th century the mill was owned by a Mr Quelch. Approximately TQ 548 728 The Powder Mills were in operation from c. 1730, possibly on
6960-418: The manufacture of nails; the first in England) between 1590 and 1595, which by 1758 had two waterwheels, one working the upper roller, the other working the lower rollers and a guillotine. A company of "white paper makers" was established here in 1694 and during the 18th century the mill was owned by a Mr Quelch. Approximately TQ 548 728 The Powder Mills were in operation from c. 1730, possibly on
7076-522: The mill in Brasted in 1812; he claimed relief in January 1815. The mill ceased work in the 1920s and the machinery was removed c. 1934. TQ 489 556 This was a paper mill. In December 1822 Nicholas Tapsfield, papermaker of Sundridge was claiming relief for himself and his wife Mary. He had been apprenticed at a paper mill at East Malling . In December 1831, Thomas Green, papermaker of Sundridge
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#17327729092837192-413: The mill in Brasted in 1812; he claimed relief in January 1815. The mill ceased work in the 1920s and the machinery was removed c. 1934. TQ 489 556 This was a paper mill. In December 1822 Nicholas Tapsfield, papermaker of Sundridge was claiming relief for himself and his wife Mary. He had been apprenticed at a paper mill at East Malling . In December 1831, Thomas Green, papermaker of Sundridge
7308-587: The milling business at a mill in Bexley . Latterly the waterwheel was replaced by a turbine and the mill generated electricity. The mill burnt down when struck by lightning in 1908 and was rebuilt as a factory which made shoe laces. The factory closed down in 1991 and the mill has been demolished and the site redeveloped as housing. TQ 563 695 This mill is under the viaduct of the Chatham Main Line railway. In 1700 there were two corn mills and
7424-468: The milling business at a mill in Bexley . Latterly the waterwheel was replaced by a turbine and the mill generated electricity. The mill burnt down when struck by lightning in 1908 and was rebuilt as a factory which made shoe laces. The factory closed down in 1991 and the mill has been demolished and the site redeveloped as housing. TQ 563 695 This mill is under the viaduct of the Chatham Main Line railway. In 1700 there were two corn mills and
7540-456: The milling trade at his mill. Stephen Cannon later bought the mill and it passed to his daughter Harriet on his death on 27 February 1856. The mill remained in the Cannon family until 1872, and the mill house until 1888. Latterly the mill had a steam engine and a tall chimney. During the First World War, a bomb hit the mill, but did not explode, although the mill was put out of action. The mill
7656-403: The milling trade at his mill. Stephen Cannon later bought the mill and it passed to his daughter Harriet on his death on 27 February 1856. The mill remained in the Cannon family until 1872, and the mill house until 1888. Latterly the mill had a steam engine and a tall chimney. During the First World War, a bomb hit the mill, but did not explode, although the mill was put out of action. The mill
7772-402: The movement and docking of largish craft with no impact on the nature of the river. Work parties surveyed, cleared and removed hazardous debris from the river bed to permit safe passage of all types of craft during low water. Volunteers and lengthsmen removed a number of self-seeded trees, lopped others and removed debris from the banks. The trust (termed Dartford and Crayford Restoration Trust)
7888-507: The museum & library. Turn right at the corner of Dartford Library along the front of the museum and stay on the footpath to a Pelican crossing , turning right towards The Wat Tyler Inn where the path follows Bullace Lane to the pedestrian underpass under the Hanau Bridge bus stops. Walk up the ramp and locate the [signposted] path to the rear of offices. Proceed to the wooden bridge close to Dartford train station and pass under it (and
8004-521: The navigation. On Dartford Creek, close to its junction with the Thames, is the Dartford Creek Tidal Flood Barrier with two 160-tonne (160-long-ton) drop-leaf gates, which may be lowered if the sea threatens to inundate the land. The barrier is managed by the Environment Agency . Dartford ( Domesday Book "Tarentefort") was a major fording place on Watling Street. Research by Woodlands Junior School indicates that
8120-580: The next mile is immediately beside the river, passing close to Lullingstone Castle & the World Garden of Plants . The small lane continues North, but your route is to the left, just prior to the Lullingstone Roman Villa . Climbing several steps the route passes into farmland again before turning sharp right heading across the slope (keep the hedge to your left). The route passes close to Eagle Heights on your left, before crossing
8236-447: The post office near the small village green keep walking along the river past the devon road bridge and towards the old mill At the bottom of Holmesdale Hill, turn left into a small driveway which quickly becomes a footpath (make sure you take the path with the pig style on the right.) Leading across farmland make your own way across all the fields (be careful as there is a popular model aeroplane landing strip) until you get to an opening at
8352-578: The protection of this valuable public amenity. Currently the tidal section is being furbished and improved by volunteers of "Friends of Dartford and Crayford Creek" to permit marine traffic, such as narrowboats and leisure cruisers to sail up to Steam Crane Wharf and beyond, to overnight or stay awhile. Much mud was laid down by river and tide from 1986 when the Creek was effectively abandoned. The tops of some mudbanks are now some two metres high; while others would need only minimal adjustment to accommodate
8468-544: The railway) to enter Mill Pond Road. Turn left here and, when convenient and safe, cross Mill Pond Road. In view of the gasworks, at the roundabout, is an embedded Darent Valley Path tile! Turn right into Lower Hythe Street, passing The Hufflers Arms. After 100 metres, take "Nelsons Row" pathway to the right. Signposted and marked DB10, it is maintained in passable condition by local lengthsman volunteers of "The Friends of Dartford and Crayford Creek". Nelsons Row pathway leads over
8584-545: The rear car park of the hotel / restaurant at the junction. The path now follows the river closely for a short distance, before being separated by fences as the path passes close to horton kirby Cricket Ground. At the junction with Franks Lane turn left, then walk down the road until you cross the bridge & turn immediately right along the path next to the river. The path passes through the Westminster fields playing fields with its small toilet block, before continuing beside
8700-483: The river flows) derives from a Celtic phrase 'stream where oak -trees grow' (Irish: "dair" = 'oak-tree', "abha" = river) (compare e.g." Derwent "). The landscapes of the valley were painted in a visionary manner by the Victorian artist Samuel Palmer during the mid-1800s. Fed by springs from the greensand hills south of Westerham in Kent and below Limpsfield Chart in Surrey , the Darent flows 21 miles (34 km) east then north by Otford and Shoreham , past
8816-413: The river into at the corner of the field down a muddy path towards South Darenth. This can be a popular stretch for pond dipping, fishing and all around river enjoyments Turn right into Station Road, then left at the bridges pub and under the tall Victorian viaduct via the small path alongside Horton Road, which is followed through the village. There are refreshments & a few shops available here.then at
8932-511: The rivers form administrative boundaries between Greater London and Kent , (specifically, the London Borough of Bexley and the Kentish borough of Dartford ). The Darent enters Long Reach to the east of Crayford Ness. Kent County Council has signposted a 19-mile (31 km) walking route along the Darent between the Greensand Hills above Sevenoaks and the Thames and named it the Darent Valley Path . The route receives no obvious attention from councils or 'focus' groups although all or part
9048-514: The route. The route is also used by National Cycle Network Route 125, which follows the same route as the footpath. There are two options when starting from the Southern end of the route; The route to Otford follows a small lane & estate roads, before crossing the River Darent where Pilgrims Way West becomes High Street, Otford . There are several shops and refreshment stops in Otford
9164-443: The sea threatens to inundate the land. The barrier is managed by the Environment Agency . Dartford ( Domesday Book "Tarentefort") was a major fording place on Watling Street. Research by Woodlands Junior School indicates that the ford existed even before the Roman period. Tarentefort itself flourished through the Roman period AD50 - AD 450. A ferry controlled by a hermit was established c.1235 and survived until 1518, long after
9280-422: The shutting down of a number of boreholes by the Environment Agency . This is documented in Dartford Library by Environment Agency documents lodged there. A sculpture, unveiled in 2004, celebrated the renewed life of the river, depicting the wildlife which has been saved. The River Darent powered a number of watermills . From source to mouth they are: TQ 444 537 The miller at this corn mill in 1771
9396-413: The site of Spilman's paper mill of 1588. It was in operation until the 20th century. TQ 547 732 Lower Mill was built in the mid-17th century, and closed in 1790. Later it was used as a zinc rolling mill and a printing works for silk and calico. TQ 545 739 River Darent The Darent is a Kentish tributary of the River Thames and takes the waters of the River Cray as a tributary in
9512-478: The site was a paper mill; it was demolished in 1936. The low breast shot waterwheel was 16 feet (4.88 m) by 8 feet (2.44 m). It drove machinery via a layshaft driven from the spur geared pitwheel. The mill was demolished in the 1930s. The paper mill had been run for over 200 years by the Wilmot family. TQ 531 648 Although it is said that this mill, which stood just downstream of Eynsford Bridge,
9628-425: The site was a paper mill; it was demolished in 1936. The low breast shot waterwheel was 16 feet (4.88 m) by 8 feet (2.44 m). It drove machinery via a layshaft driven from the spur geared pitwheel. The mill was demolished in the 1930s. The paper mill had been run for over 200 years by the Wilmot family. TQ 531 648 Although it is said that this mill, which stood just downstream of Eynsford Bridge,
9744-497: The site was redeveloped. TQ 524 594 There was a watermill in Otford in 1541. The last mill on this site was a corn mill with two waterwheels. It was latterly used as a saw mill and burnt down on 7 January 1924. A picture of the mill can be seen here . The breastshot waterwheel remained in 1930. One waterwheel was of wood construction, driving three pairs of French Burr millstones and one pair of Peak millstones. The machinery
9860-444: The site was redeveloped. TQ 524 594 There was a watermill in Otford in 1541. The last mill on this site was a corn mill with two waterwheels. It was latterly used as a saw mill and burnt down on 7 January 1924. A picture of the mill can be seen here . The breastshot waterwheel remained in 1930. One waterwheel was of wood construction, driving three pairs of French Burr millstones and one pair of Peak millstones. The machinery
9976-434: The tidal portion of the Darent near Crayford. ' Darenth ' is frequently found as the spelling of the river's name in older books and maps, Bartholomew's Canals and River of England being one example. Bartholomew's Gazetteer (1954) demonstrates that Darent means "clear water", a result of it springing from and running through chalk. The purity of the water was a major factor in the development of paper and pharmaceuticals in
10092-463: The watermill to decay and become uninhabited" in 1636. He was ordered to rebuild the mill within two years. The present building built by the Colyers dates to c.1780. The mill was a corn mill; the converted building survives. A curious feature is that the door on the north side of the east face is painted on, to look symmetrical with the real door. The mill was latterly worked by a turbine which drove
10208-408: The watermill to decay and become uninhabited" in 1636. He was ordered to rebuild the mill within two years. The present building built by the Colyers dates to c.1780. The mill was a corn mill; the converted building survives. A curious feature is that the door on the north side of the east face is painted on, to look symmetrical with the real door. The mill was latterly worked by a turbine which drove
10324-468: The wildlife which has been saved. The River Darent powered a number of watermills . From source to mouth they are: TQ 444 537 The miller at this corn mill in 1771 was James Marchane, who was joined by his son James. James Jr died in 1805 and James Sr died c. 1812. The mill was sketched by G. Samuel in 1818. It had an overshot waterwheel . The cast iron overshot waterwheel was 12 feet (3.66 m) by 2 feet 9.5 inches (0.85 m). It
10440-419: Was 10 feet (3.05 m) wide. The millstones were only 3 feet (910 mm) diameter, suggesting that only a limited amount of flour was available. The mill was working until 1911, no auxiliary power being used. The building was house converted in the 1920s and survives today. TQ 544 661 This paper mill was founded in 1648 by Huguenot refugees. The paper mill replaced an earlier corn mill. In 1882, it
10556-419: Was 10 feet (3.05 m) wide. The millstones were only 3 feet (910 mm) diameter, suggesting that only a limited amount of flour was available. The mill was working until 1911, no auxiliary power being used. The building was house converted in the 1920s and survives today. TQ 544 661 This paper mill was founded in 1648 by Huguenot refugees. The paper mill replaced an earlier corn mill. In 1882, it
10672-412: Was James Marchane, who was joined by his son James. James Jr died in 1805 and James Sr died c. 1812. The mill was sketched by G. Samuel in 1818. It had an overshot waterwheel . The cast iron overshot waterwheel was 12 feet (3.66 m) by 2 feet 9.5 inches (0.85 m). It was fitted in 1868, replacing a wooden wheel which may have been breast shot. In 1890, the waterwheel was adapted to drive
10788-444: Was a corn mill with an undershot waterwheel other evidence shows this to have been a water powered saw mill which had been erected c. 1853. It may have stood on the site of an earlier mill. TQ 540 656 This was a corn mill. It stands immediately downstream of the bridge by Eynsford ford . The low breast shot waterwheel was 8 feet (2.44 m) diameter in 1887, being replaced by one of at least 10 feet (3.05 m) diameter. It
10904-444: Was a corn mill with an undershot waterwheel other evidence shows this to have been a water powered saw mill which had been erected c. 1853. It may have stood on the site of an earlier mill. TQ 540 656 This was a corn mill. It stands immediately downstream of the bridge by Eynsford ford . The low breast shot waterwheel was 8 feet (2.44 m) diameter in 1887, being replaced by one of at least 10 feet (3.05 m) diameter. It
11020-636: Was a miller in Horton who died in 1724 and Thomas Welch was a miller in Horton who died in 1734. George Cannon took the mill in the early 1830s. In 1843 he was bankrupt as a common brewer, an occupation he carried on along with the mill. Ill health forced his retirement in 1852, and the mill was bought by his brother Stephen. His son, also Stephen, was running Old Mill from 1850, then being 14 years old. Stephen Cannon (father) died in 1872 and Stephen Cannon (son) sold Westminster Mill and Old Mill in order to concentrate
11136-531: Was a miller in Horton who died in 1724 and Thomas Welch was a miller in Horton who died in 1734. George Cannon took the mill in the early 1830s. In 1843 he was bankrupt as a common brewer, an occupation he carried on along with the mill. Ill health forced his retirement in 1852, and the mill was bought by his brother Stephen. His son, also Stephen, was running Old Mill from 1850, then being 14 years old. Stephen Cannon (father) died in 1872 and Stephen Cannon (son) sold Westminster Mill and Old Mill in order to concentrate
11252-446: Was all wooden. The second waterwheel was of cast iron, driving two pairs of French Burr stones vis cast iron machinery. TQ 520 610 This was a corn mill. Originally powered by an internal breast shot waterwheel of some 14 feet (4.27 m) by 6 feet (1.83 m) driving one pair of French Burr millstones and one pair of Peak millstones. The great spur wheel was a cast iron wheel with wooden cogs. The waterwheel had been replaced by
11368-446: Was all wooden. The second waterwheel was of cast iron, driving two pairs of French Burr stones vis cast iron machinery. TQ 520 610 This was a corn mill. Originally powered by an internal breast shot waterwheel of some 14 feet (4.27 m) by 6 feet (1.83 m) driving one pair of French Burr millstones and one pair of Peak millstones. The great spur wheel was a cast iron wheel with wooden cogs. The waterwheel had been replaced by
11484-575: Was claiming relief for himself, his wife and five children. He had been apprenticed in 1804 to William Dacie at a paper mill in Bermondsey , then to a Mr Hall in St. Mary Cray when Dacie retired. In March 1832, Henry Sparks, papermaker of Sundridge was claiming relief for himself, wife Susanna and five children. He had been apprenticed to Messrs. Smith & Knight at Godalming in 1796, serving only four years. In May 1839, Henry Thomas, papermaker of Sundridge
11600-469: Was claiming relief for himself, his wife and five children. He had been apprenticed in 1804 to William Dacie at a paper mill in Bermondsey , then to a Mr Hall in St. Mary Cray when Dacie retired. In March 1832, Henry Sparks, papermaker of Sundridge was claiming relief for himself, wife Susanna and five children. He had been apprenticed to Messrs. Smith & Knight at Godalming in 1796, serving only four years. In May 1839, Henry Thomas, papermaker of Sundridge
11716-450: Was claiming relief for himself. He had been a papermaker all his working life. The internal overshot waterwheel was 12 feet 6 inches (3.81 m) by 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 m), carried on an oak axle. Sundridge Mill produced paper for the Bank of England until its closure in 1901, business being transferred to Eynsford Paper Mill. The mill buildings were converted to
11832-400: Was claiming relief for himself. He had been a papermaker all his working life. The internal overshot waterwheel was 12 feet 6 inches (3.81 m) by 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 m), carried on an oak axle. Sundridge Mill produced paper for the Bank of England until its closure in 1901, business being transferred to Eynsford Paper Mill. The mill buildings were converted to
11948-650: Was demolished in September 1928. Photographs of the mill during demolition reveal the cast iron low breast shot waterwheel drove three pairs of millstones via a cast iron layshaft. The original wooden upright shaft and crown wheel were retained. TQ 552 718 A site mentioned in Domesday, the mills here were held by the manor of Bignoures and belonged to the Knights of St. John in the Middle Ages , being let at
12064-424: Was demolished in September 1928. Photographs of the mill during demolition reveal the cast iron low breast shot waterwheel drove three pairs of millstones via a cast iron layshaft. The original wooden upright shaft and crown wheel were retained. TQ 552 718 A site mentioned in Domesday, the mills here were held by the manor of Bignoures and belonged to the Knights of St. John in the Middle Ages , being let at
12180-542: Was fitted in 1868, replacing a wooden wheel which may have been breast shot. In 1890, the waterwheel was adapted to drive a set of pumps to supply Westerham. An average of 25,000 imperial gallons (110,000 L) could be supplied. The milling machinery was removed in 1936 and during the Second World War a doodlebug landed nearby and blew the roof of the mill off. The derelict building stood in April 1954, but had been demolished by July 1960. TQ 449 540 This corn mill had an external cast iron overshot waterwheel carried on
12296-467: Was laid down by river and tide from 1986 when the Creek was effectively abandoned. The tops of some mudbanks are now some two metres high; while others would need only minimal adjustment to accommodate the movement and docking of largish craft with no impact on the nature of the river. Work parties surveyed, cleared and removed hazardous debris from the river bed to permit safe passage of all types of craft during low water. Volunteers and lengthsmen removed
12412-426: Was later recognised officially as the 'lowest flowing' river in the country. Wildlife was decimated but the reason became apparent as soon as the problem was addressed. Increasing quantities of water were being diverted by the then Rivers Authority to supply the growing greeds of adjacent towns and even London Boroughs. Since 1989, much work has been [claimed to have been] carried out to rectify this situation, including
12528-550: Was of cast iron with wooden floats. It was12 feet (3.66 m) by 10 feet (3.05 m). TQ 557 713 This corn mill stood at Old Mill Farm. It was built by Thomas Edmeads in the early 19th century. In 1806 the tenant millers were Stephen and George Cannon. The Cannon brothers were declared bankrupt in May 1816 but discharged their debts and returned to milling. George Cannon was again declared bankrupt in 1823. Stephen Cannon had three sons William, George and Stephen. They all learnt
12644-501: Was of cast iron with wooden floats. It was12 feet (3.66 m) by 10 feet (3.05 m). TQ 557 713 This corn mill stood at Old Mill Farm. It was built by Thomas Edmeads in the early 19th century. In 1806 the tenant millers were Stephen and George Cannon. The Cannon brothers were declared bankrupt in May 1816 but discharged their debts and returned to milling. George Cannon was again declared bankrupt in 1823. Stephen Cannon had three sons William, George and Stephen. They all learnt
12760-450: Was proposed in the early 1800s but failed to achieve momentum. In 1839 a new proposal achieved an Act of Parliament allowing development to proceed and tolls were levied from completion in 1844. The work included straightening, dredging and shortening the navigation. On Dartford Creek, close to its junction with the Thames, is the Dartford Creek Tidal Flood Barrier with two 160-tonne (160-long-ton) drop-leaf gates, which may be lowered if
12876-401: Was replaced by a 75 horsepower (56 kW) suction gas engine . Roller milling plant had been installed in the 1890s but milling ceased in the 1920s. The mill building was standing in the 1980s. TQ 513 568 This was a corn mill rebuilt by Weeks of Maidstone in 1859, it had an internal cast iron overshot waterwheel 7 feet (2.13 m) by 12 feet (3.66 m), which had probably replaced
12992-401: Was replaced by a 75 horsepower (56 kW) suction gas engine . Roller milling plant had been installed in the 1890s but milling ceased in the 1920s. The mill building was standing in the 1980s. TQ 513 568 This was a corn mill rebuilt by Weeks of Maidstone in 1859, it had an internal cast iron overshot waterwheel 7 feet (2.13 m) by 12 feet (3.66 m), which had probably replaced
13108-400: Was still in existence in 1980. TQ 470 552 This was a corn mill, now converted to a dwelling. The cast iron breast shot waterwheel was 13 feet (3.96 m) by 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 m). In September 1812, James Weight, miller of Brasted, was claiming relief for himself, his wife and five children. A man by the name of Staples who went by the name of Chapman had leased
13224-400: Was still in existence in 1980. TQ 470 552 This was a corn mill, now converted to a dwelling. The cast iron breast shot waterwheel was 13 feet (3.96 m) by 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 m). In September 1812, James Weight, miller of Brasted, was claiming relief for himself, his wife and five children. A man by the name of Staples who went by the name of Chapman had leased
13340-484: Was that the pitwheel was the same diameter as the waterwheel. The mill had ceased working by 1914. The upper storeys of the mill were demolished in February 1936, leaving the brick base, waterwheel and some machinery. These had been cleared away by June 1965. TQ 563 697 South Darenth Mill was a brick building that replaced an earlier mill that burnt down in 1879. This mill was run by the Cannon family. The mill had
13456-428: Was that the pitwheel was the same diameter as the waterwheel. The mill had ceased working by 1914. The upper storeys of the mill were demolished in February 1936, leaving the brick base, waterwheel and some machinery. These had been cleared away by June 1965. TQ 563 697 South Darenth Mill was a brick building that replaced an earlier mill that burnt down in 1879. This mill was run by the Cannon family. The mill had
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