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
It’s always a pleasure to walk into Darkes service department. The whole team are so professional and friendly. They always listen to our needs resulting in a perfect outcome. Thank you Darkes for being there for us
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Lesley Shaw  |  31/03/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
The staff at John Darke came outside to look at the sticking tailgate latch on a Saturday morning. We agreed the car needed a new latch to be fitted. As the problem needed to be fixed quickly, they booked the car in as soon as the part could be made available, even though the workshop was very busy. Everyone I saw and spoke to at John Darke was helpful, courteous and professional. Thank you!
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Anne Hebburn  |  29/03/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Good friendly Service. Kept up to date with what was happening with my car. Car returned to me in a very clean condition
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Ruth Cox  |  09/03/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Full service and video detailing the current condition of the car. Attention to detail and follow-up courtesy call the day after
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Sally Heavens  |  09/03/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
All members of the team at John Darke put the customer first. They make every visit as easy as possible
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Richard Avison  |  09/03/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
The whole experience was very positive you felt as if you mattered not just your vehicle. I was very happy with the experience and will come again!
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Colin Hosking  |  06/03/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
I required an MOT appointment in a hurry in order to begin the process of buying our vehicle from Ford Lease...notwithstanding the fact that John Darke were fully booked ahead of the deadline for updating the certificate, we were accommodated, loaned a courtesy car and the job was completed on time...very satisfied
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Andrew Mckinnon  |  06/03/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Communication and explanation during and after service
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David Hayward  |  03/03/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Good old fashioned honest service from a great garage ,have been using them for years
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Peter Stenton  |  27/02/2025
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Picked up on time and returned after work has been completed
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Karin Cotgrave  |  27/02/2025

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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