Dartford Museum is set to close next month as part of a major refurbishment programme, it has been revealed. The museum will shut its doors on Thursday, October 1, 2026, while Dartford Borough Council carries out work to modernise the attraction and create a more engaging visitor experience.
Unseen artefacts to be showcased
The council said the project will allow more artefacts from the museum's collection to be displayed, including items with strong links to Dartford that have never previously been seen by the public. Although the museum building will be closed, residents will still be able to access local history support.
Curator Dr Mike Still will hold regular Saturday history surgeries at Dartford Library, where people can discuss local history, ask questions and share their own memories. The museum has not undergone a significant refurbishment for many years, and the redevelopment is intended to create new ways of telling the story of Dartford and its people.
Future displays to highlight local achievements
Future displays are expected to highlight some of the borough's best-known achievements and industries, including Vox Amplifiers, the world-famous company founded in Dartford which employed many people at its West Hill factories.
Councillor Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford Borough Council, said: "Dartford Museum has done a fantastic job of preserving and sharing the stories that make our borough unique, and we are incredibly proud of what it represents."
"This temporary closure is not the end of that story, it's the start of an exciting new chapter. We have a wonderful collection, much of which has never been seen by the public, and this project will allow us to showcase more of Dartford's heritage in new and engaging ways," he added.
Residents invited to contribute memories
The council is encouraging residents to contribute stories, photographs and personal recollections to help shape future displays. Dartford locals are being invited to share memories of local businesses, neighbourhoods, community life and employment as part of the redevelopment process.
"History isn't something that stands still. As our community grows and changes, so do the stories we tell about ourselves," Kite said. "We want the new museum to celebrate the people, industries and innovations that have shaped Dartford, while creating a space that inspires future generations to take pride in our borough."
"Whilst we're particularly excited about opportunities to shine a spotlight on those connected to our borough who are both nationally and internationally known, we also know that some of the most important pieces of our history come from local people and their memories," he continued. "That's why we're inviting residents to share their stories, photographs and recollections. Together, we can help create a museum that truly reflects Dartford's past, present and future."
The authority said it hopes to reopen the refreshed and revitalised museum in autumn 2027.
