The History of John Darke Ltd

Mr John Darke worked for the Bristol Aeroplane Company as an aircraft engineer.  It was this role that brought him to the Lincolnshire and Yorkshire area.

Always immaculately presented Mr Darke had a great interest in anything with an engineering connection, especially cars and motorcycles.

History of John Darke
John Darke begins in 1946

It all began in 1946

Mr John Darke began his business at Red Garage in Marshchapel, Lincolnshire in 1946.

 

 

Goggomobils, Hillmans, Humbers and Sunbeams

The business moved to the Wolds market town of Louth, Lincolnshire in 1956 occupying the same site the business operates from today. 

The Louth site initially started by selling Goggomobils along with Hillmans, Humbers and Sunbeams from the Rootes Group which later became Chrysler Talbot.

 

Fuel Forecourt

Situated on the original A16, John Darke Ltd has sold fuel to both locals and commuters from our forecourt, working with some of the worlds biggest fuel suppliers. The company vision has stood the test of time, "to offer a first class product, using the latest technology, while delivering the best level of customer service". 

1982 Volvo Arrives

In 1982 the company took the Volvo franchise and became known nationwide for delivering the very best levels of customer service.

John Darke Ltd operated the Volvo franchise at its sites in Grimsby Road Louth and Cheshire Road Lincoln. 

2008, Ford Comes To Louth

In 2008 the business was awarded the Ford Retail Franchise and now offers an extensive stock of Ford and Volvo used vehicles, alongside a Ford Approved Service Centre, Volvo Specialist Service Centre, insurance approved bodyshop and vehicle hire.

John Darke Louth
John Darke trading for 75 years

Trading for over 75 years

In 2021 John Darke Ltd celebrated 75 years of trading. We remain an independent family-run company that prides itself on offering a fair, open and personal approach to doing business. With many loyal customers following along the way, John Darke Ltd is the name that you can trust.

Customer Reviews
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Post service issues were rectified the next day very quickly with an ongoing investigation into a fault that has yet to be fully diagnosed. Excellent customer service from the service team.
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John Tilmouth  |  15/09/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
I can’t recommend John Darke enough! From start to finish, their service is absolutely fantastic. The whole team is not only highly professional but also kind, caring, and genuinely customer-focused. They go above and beyond to make sure everything is explained clearly and done to the highest standard. It’s rare to find a company that combines excellent technical service with such warmth and compassion. Truly superb — thank you, John Darke!
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Marguerite Horton  |  13/09/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Everything as usual friendly lovely staff
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Joanna Blythe  |  07/09/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Very courteous and professional team
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Denise Loveday  |  05/09/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Efficient courteous service staff, always smiling and very helpful
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Peter Britcliffe  |  04/09/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Such pleasant people to deal with. Kept informed and was contacted after the service to make sure that I was satisfied. Offered transport to and from my home
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Roy Barber  |  01/09/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Great experience, good communication and van was washed and hoovered out
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Andy Noad  |  27/08/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
The work was carried out professionally and made a video to show me the state of my car underneath and the components if needed replacing or not. I was well impressed with the service and also the Receptionist was very courteous and explained what would be done to my car. As I needed to be at another appointment and had no car. The Receptionist arranged a driver to take me and pick me up afterwards when my car was ready. Cannot praise the Staff enough they went above and beyond to look after me and my car
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Gillian Hancuck  |  24/08/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
The car pick-up from home and return service was excellent. The prompt referral of an issue to secure an MOT was very good. The service and MOT was carried out very efficiently
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R Whetton  |  21/08/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Pleasant and knowledgable Service Reception staff. Coffee offered. Radio on in waiting area but not too loud. No grubby Mechanic finger marks on my Mustangs body. Offered a car wash but not taken up. Overall a very pleasant experience.
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Nigel Stephenson  |  21/08/2025
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Contact our team

Our team are always glad to help with your enquiry. You can reach us via phone, email or you can visit us at our showroom.

4.8 (based on 175 reviews) View available reviews
A16 Garage, Grimsby Road, Louth, Lincolnshire, LN11 0EA
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