Dartford Crossing Closure: Updates & Routes 2026
Latest Dartford Crossing closure dates for January 2026. No ads, no spam - just essential information for UK drivers. Check closures, alternative routes, and travel tips.
Dartford Crossing closure maintenance work with traffic management and signage
Dartford Crossing Closure: Updates & Routes 2026
Last Updated: 26 January 2026
The Dartford Crossing connects Essex and Kent via the M25, with over 180,000 vehicles crossing daily. When closures occur for essential maintenance, having up-to-date information is critical for planning your journey. This page provides real-time closure dates, alternative routes, and toll information sourced directly from National Highways.
Quick Answer
Check below for the latest status and upcoming scheduled maintenance sourced from National Highways official updates.
Essential closure information for drivers planning journeys between Kent and Essex. No ads no spam just the facts you need.
Confirmed Upcoming Closures
Source: National Highways - 26 January 2026 update
This Weekend (30-1 January 2026)
Friday 30 January
- Dartford west tunnel, 11pm to 6am
Saturday 31 January
- Dartford west tunnel, 10pm to 5am
Sunday 1 February
- Dartford east tunnel, 10pm to 5am (no access for vehicles over 4.8m)
Recent Confirmed Closures (January 2026)
Week of 27-3 April
- Monday 27 April: Dartford east tunnel, 10pm to 5am (no access for vehicles over 4.8m)
Week of 20-26 April
- Friday 24 April: Dartford east tunnel, 10pm to 5am (no access for vehicles over 4.8m)
- Sunday 26 April: Dartford QEII Bridge, 10pm to 5am
Week of 13-19 April
- Monday 13 April: Dartford east tunnel, 10pm to 5am (no access for vehicles over 4.8m)
- Tuesday 14 April: Dartford east tunnel, 10pm to 5am (no access for vehicles over 4.8m)
- Wednesday 15 April: Dartford east tunnel, 10pm to 5am (no access for vehicles over 4.8m)
- Thursday 16 April: Dartford east tunnel, 10pm to 5am (no access for vehicles over 4.8m)
- Friday 17 April: Dartford east tunnel, 10pm to 5am (no access for vehicles over 4.8m)
Week of 6-12 April
- Saturday 11 April: Dartford west tunnel, 11pm to 6am
- Sunday 12 April: Dartford west tunnel, 10pm to 5am
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it open today?
Visit National Highways official page for real-time status. Regular maintenance occurs overnight typically 10pm to 5:30am weeknights and 10pm to 5am weekends. Check the confirmed closures section above for scheduled maintenance or Traffic England live updates.
What about the tunnels?
Both east and west tunnels have scheduled overnight maintenance. Check the confirmed closures section above for specific dates and times. For live updates visit National Highways.
When is the QEII Bridge closed?
Bridge closure schedules are published in advance in the confirmed closures section above. Check National Highways for real-time updates.
What are the best alternative routes?
Main alternatives include Blackwall Tunnel A102, Rotherhithe Tunnel A101, Woolwich Ferry A206, and M25 via M20 M2. Choose based on your destination and vehicle type. Check current traffic conditions on Traffic England before setting off.
Is there a toll charge?
Yes. Cars pay £3.50 one-off or £2.80 with a pre-pay account, motorcycles travel free. Charges apply 6am to 10pm every day including weekends and bank holidays. Payment must be made within 24 hours via Dart Charge online, phone 0300 300 0120, or at Payzone and Post Office outlets. Late payment incurs a £70 fine reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days.
Are there height restrictions?
The east tunnel has a 4.8m (15 feet 9 inches) height limit. During east tunnel closures high-sided vehicles are diverted via M25 clockwise. Check your vehicle height before travelling.
Finding Local Options
| Region | Location | Access Type |
|---|---|---|
| Kent | Dartford | Direct access |
| Kent | Gravesend | Alternative via A2 |
| Kent | Maidstone | M20 alternative |
| Kent | Canterbury | A2 alternative |
| Essex | Thurrock | Direct access |
| Essex | Basildon | A13 alternative |
| Essex | Chelmsford | A12 alternative |
| Essex | Southend | A13 alternative |
| London | Greenwich | Blackwall Tunnel |
| London | Tower Hamlets | Rotherhithe Tunnel |
| London | Newham | Woolwich Ferry |
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Official Information Sources
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About the Author: The AutoChain Team monitors official sources to provide accurate up-to-date traffic information for UK drivers.