Things To Do
in Northfleet
Northfleet is a residential town in Kent located along the north bank of the River Thames. It blends industrial heritage with riverside green spaces and easy rail access, especially via Ebbsfleet International. The town acts as a quiet base for exploring the Gravesend and Dartford area, with convenient links to London.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace, local pubs, and riverside walks while staying within reach of larger attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning St. Botolph's Church, known for its unique architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. After exploring the church, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Northfleet, admiring the historic buildings and local shops. Stop at a nearby café for a traditional English breakfast, fueling up for the adventures ahead.
In the afternoon, head to the Northfleet War Memorial to learn about the town's rich history and the sacrifices made during the wars. From there, visit the nearby Perry Street, where you can browse local boutiques and artisans' shops, picking up unique souvenirs. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local pub, sampling classic British fare while mingling with the friendly locals.
As the sun sets, make your way to the picturesque Gravesend Promenade, just a short distance from Northfleet, where you can take a leisurely walk along the waterfront. Enjoy the serene views of the River Thames, and if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of the famous paddle steamer. Conclude your evening with dinner at a riverside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while overlooking the shimmering waters.
Start your day at the Thames-Side Studios, an artistic hub filled with galleries showcasing the work of local artists. Take your time to appreciate the diverse styles and mediums, and perhaps even chat with some artists about their inspirations. Afterward, grab a coffee at the studio café, soaking in the creative atmosphere.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Gravesend Museum, where you can delve deeper into the local heritage and culture through engaging exhibits. Spend some time learning about the area's fascinating maritime history and the role it played in the development of the Thames. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling local dishes while discussing your favorite exhibits.
For the evening, attend a live performance at the Woodville Theatre, where you can experience a range of shows from comedy to drama. The intimate setting of the theatre ensures a captivating experience, allowing you to connect with the performers. After the show, enjoy a late-night snack at a nearby pub, reflecting on the entertaining evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🥪Lunch at café or casual eatery | $8-12 |
| 🏨1 night at a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week (basic items) | $40-70 |
| 🚆Local transport pass (monthly) | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to London and the Estuary via Ebbsfleet International
- Calm riverside setting with accessible green spaces
- Limited nightlife within Northfleet itself; more options in Gravesend
- Some local services and shops cluster mainly in Gravesend and Dartford
Places to Visit in Northfleet
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic pier with sweeping river views, boats, and a frequent backdrop of sunset hues over the Thames.
Industrial and maritime landscapes with ships on the Thames and reflections at dawn or dusk.
Architectural detail with a riverside backdrop and narrow lanes surrounding the church.
Dramatic vantage point to capture the scale of the bridge against the river and skyline.
Wide, flat riverside paths ideal for long exposures of boats and water traffic.
Food in Northfleet
Northfleet Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy cod or haddock with chunky chips and mushy peas, a staple at riverside pubs.
Must-Try!
A nod to the region’s eel-pie heritage, typically served in traditional pubs.
A hearty morning set with eggs, sausages, bacon, beans, and toast, often enjoyed at local cafes.
A sweet, aromatic bun associated with eastern Kent’s baking traditions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and street-food stalls on market days.
Pop-up stalls along the Gravesend riverside on weekends, offering snacks, street food, and local crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue patiently, say please and thank you, and avoid talking loudly on public transport or in quiet venues.
Small talk about weather or local spots is common; respect personal space and avoid discussing sensitive topics in casual settings.
Let passengers alight before boarding; keep noise and luggage management reasonable; use contactless payments where possible.
Safety
Tipping in Northfleet
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, tipping is customary but not mandatory. In sit-down restaurants, 10–15% is typical if service is not included; some places round up instead. In pubs, tipping is less common, but you may round up the bill or leave a small amount for good service. Cash tips are welcome, but card payments are increasingly accepted, and many venues include a service charge of 10–12% if applicable.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours and busier riverside spaces; bring sun protection and a light jacket for breeze along the water. Expect outdoor markets and occasional heat waves, with travel via rail a convenient option.
Milder temperatures with colorful foliage along riverside walks; pack a light rain jacket for sudden showers. Quieter evenings and seasonal markets often appear near the riverfront.
Cool to cold with frequent rainfall; coat and waterproof footwear recommended. Shorter daylight hours mean earlier sunset photography windows.
Fresh blooms and migrating birds around nature trails; comfortable temperatures for outdoor strolling and photography.
Northfleet at Night
Hiking in Northfleet
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside and rural path following the Darent Valley, offering peaceful walks and wildlife viewing.
Accessible segments with rolling countryside, winding paths, and viewpoints over the Thames estuary.
A riverside stretch ideal for easy hikes, long walks, and river photography with occasional wooded sections.
Airports
How to reach Northfleet by plane.
Shorter flights to destinations in Europe and easy rail/train links to southeast England.
Major international hub accessible by car or rail via southeast routes.
Largest UK airport with global connections; a common choice for international travelers staying in Kent.
North of London hub with budget-friendly European connections; reachable by train or car via major routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable portion of residents are families seeking a quiet riverside lifestyle with good schooling options nearby.
Many residents commute to London or larger towns by rail, using Ebbsfleet or Gravesend connections.
A diverse community with a mix of White British and other European, South Asian, and Afro-Caribbean groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local amateur and semi-professional clubs provide community games and matches.
Seasonal games at local greens and parks during warmer months.
Nearby clubs offer local matches and training for enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Northfleet.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafes offer veggie options like veggie burgers, falafel options, cheese & onion pies, and seasonal salads. When dining out, ask for dishes made without meat stock or gelatin and request that sauces be vegetarian.