This project will involve researching, recording, restoring and interpreting the remaining features of Dartford’s historically significant mills.

Working with Dartford Museum and Dartford Historical and Antiquarian Society, this exciting community archaeology project is currently underway to research, record, restore and interpret the remaining mill features of the nationally important Dartford Powder Mills – a site whose industrial history can be traced back to the 16th century.

Although Dartford was one of the largest centres for gunpowder production in the 18th century, there is little of the ruins today to inform passers-by of the history and significance of the site. As a consequence, this piece of Dartford’s heritage is at risk of being forgotten or falling into further states of neglect.

Following a Heritage Site Survey, a team of Gunpowder Volunteers will form to research, clear and conserve the site. This will help the site to be restored and interpreted in an engaging way – making it an area which future walkers and cyclists will be able to explore on their way along the Darent Valley Path.

 

  • Heritage and archaeology project
  • Remembering Dartford’s mills
  • Volunteering and community engagement

 

Best way to travel
The best way to access the site is on foot along the Darent Valley Path, the remains of the mill and sluices are viewable from the edge of the river. Walk south along the path from Powder Mill Lane (nearest post code DA1 1NT)

 

For more information about our Gunpowder and Paper project, including volunteering, please contact Anne Sassin darent.valley@kentdowns.org.uk

Concrete arch in ground
© Copyright Paul Burgess photography
River with overhanging trees
© Copyright johnmillerphotography.com
Wooden sluice gate across river
© Copyright johnmillerphotography.com
large concrete mill stone on floor in woodland
© Copyright johnmillerphotography.com
Rusty cog on wooden post in woodland next to river
© Copyright johnmillerphotography.com

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Mills

Mills

Some 38 mills are considered to have operated along the Darent and its tributaries and included paper mills, corn...

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A wealth of heritage

A wealth of heritage

The Darent Valley has a rich heritage spanning from the first human settlement more than 400,000 years ago to...

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Darent Valley Path

Darent Valley Path

The Darent Valley Path currently runs for 19 miles between Dartford and Sevenoaks and is an important sustainable access...

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Co-financed by the European Union and the European Regional Development Fund