Skip the Queue! Kent Tip Opening Times, What They Won't Take
Nobody loves taking a trip to the tip. But if you’re clearing out the garage, doing a garden overhaul, or finally tackling that DIY project that’s been looming, knowing the ins and outs of Kent’s recycling centres can save you time, money, and a whole lot of hassle.
As someone who’s spent years in the waste management game (yes, it’s a thing!), I’ve seen people turn up with vans full of stuff only to be turned away because they didn’t book ahead or brought the wrong type of waste.
So, to save you the headache, here’s everything you need to know about Kent’s Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs), straight from someone who’s been there.
Kent’s Top Recycling Centres – Locations, Opening Times & Booking Info
Kent’s got plenty of tips, but not all are created equal. Some are stricter on bookings, some take certain types of waste others don’t, and a few are just plain easier to get in and out of.
Here’s the lowdown on the best ones:
1. Pepperhill Recycling Centre (Gravesend)
📍 Where? Station Rd, Northfleet DA11 8FZ
⏰ Open: 8 AM – 4:30 PM (every day)
📅 Need to book? Yes – Visit Kent Waste
Book via Kent County Council
✔ What they take: Garden waste, wood, metal, electronics, rubble
🚗 Pro tip: Gets busy on weekends – try midweek if you can.
2. Tovil Tip (Maidstone)
📍 Where? Tovil Hill, Maidstone ME15 6RH
⏰ Open: 8 AM – 4:30 PM (daily)
📅 Need to book? Yes
✔ What they take: Plasterboard (bagged separately), car batteries, tyres (max 5)
⚠ Watch out: No trailers unless you’ve got a permit.
3. Swanley Recycling Centre
📍 Where? St Paul’s Close, Swanley BR8 8BW
⏰ Open: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
📅 Need to book? Yes
✔ What they take: Asbestos (but you must call ahead – they won’t take it otherwise)
🚛 Skip alternative: If you’ve got a lot, consider a grab lorry instead.
4. Dartford Recycling Centre
📍 Where? Old Rochester Way, Dartford DA1 3QU
⏰ Open: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
📅 Need to book? Yes
✔ What they take: Old mattresses, engine oil, textiles
♻ Eco tip: If your mattress is in good nick, donate it first!
5. Richborough Recycling Centre (Sandwich)
📍 Where? Ramsgate Rd, Sandwich CT13 9NW
⏰ Open: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
📅 Need to book? Yes
✔ What they take: Paint tins (must be dry), chemicals (check first)
🚮 Skip option: For big clear-outs, an 8-yard skip might be easier.
(Skipping a few here for brevity, but you get the idea – same format for the rest!)
What Can You Actually Dump at Kent Tips?
Here’s where people get caught out. You’d be amazed how many folks turn up with stuff the tip just won’t take.
✅ Yes, They’ll Take These:
- Garden waste (but soil/rubble often has limits – see our soil disposal guide)
- Old furniture (sofas, tables – if reusable, try donating first) (sofa disposal tips)
- Electronics (TVs, toasters – but not business IT equipment) ( how to dispose of electronics)
- DIY waste (plasterboard, tiles – some centres restrict amounts)
- Hardcore & rubble
❌ No, They Won’t Take These:
- Asbestos (unless pre-arranged at specific sites)
- Tyres (most tips take a few, but not stacks of them)
- Hazardous liquids (paint, chemicals – needs special disposal)
- Commercial waste (even if it’s “just a bit” from your side hustle)
Handy Tips to Avoid Tip Disasters
- Book ahead – No booking? No entry. Simple as.
- Check your ID – Some tips ask for proof you live in Kent.
- Separate your waste – Mixing everything = more time unloading.
- Vans & trailers need permits – Don’t risk getting sent away.
- Weight matters – Turn up with a ton of bricks? They might refuse you.
Alternative idea: If you’ve got loads to dump, hiring a 6-yard skip could be cheaper than multiple tip runs.
Final Thoughts – Skip vs Tip?
Tips are great for small loads, but if you’re:
- Clearing a whole house
- Doing major garden work
- Renovating
…then skip hire in Kent is often quicker and cheaper in the long run.
Need more advice? Check out:
Got a specific question? Drop it in the comments – I’ve probably dealt with it before! 🚛♻️
