The insideGUIDE to Maidstone
An intriguing union of old and new, beyond its recognised urban buzz Maidstone beautifully showcases The Garden of England’s greatest traits at their very best.
WORDS BY MIA CHAPMAN
With its name coming from the Saxon meaning ‘stone of the people’ or ‘stone of the maidens’, Maidstone is Kent’s largest town. Throughout time, the county town has played a vital role in some of Kent’s most pivotal events, from battles and trade developments via its links with The River Medway, to welcoming many eminent historical figures as the site of one of the most famous castles in the entire country.
In recent times, Maidstone at its heart has been transformed into a driven hub of development, injected with an inspired modernity that has made room for outstanding growth and creativity. With that said, this corner of the county is still highly regarded and deeply enamoured for the historical preservation that awaits discovery amongst its many hidden cobblestone streets, incredible architecture, quaint surrounding villages and rolling countryside.
Blending rich charm and vibrant newness, Maidstone is celebrated for its uniquenes and wears this identity with pride; the town’s many highlights are sure to delight any visitor, whatever they might be seeking to gain from their next Kentish adventure.
Image by: Visit Maidstone
“I love Maidstone for its vibrant history and blend of old and new. Its medieval buildings and landmarks offer a glimpse into the past, with exceptional examples of medieval architecture. Being the County Town of Kent it has been a centre of industry for hundreds of years. Visitors will enjoy finding out about its rich heritage in the Museum and can visit one of the many independent restaurants and businesses located right in the heart of town.”
Sam Graves, Owner of Maidstone Distillery
TOP MAIDSTONE PICKS
Image by: Visit Maidstone
Top Heritage
Maidstone Museum
From fascinating collections on ancient Egypt and Japanese arts to artefacts from the Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment, you are bound to be enthralled by the treasures that call this museum home.
Top Tipples
Maidstone Distillery
Holding a rich legacy within the world of spirit making, this award-winning distillery certainly knows a thing or two about crafted spirits, welcoming visitors to explore the craft through engaging masterclasses and tastings.
Top Entertainment
Lockmeadow
Comprising of a cinema, pool, 18-lane bowling alley, trampoline park, VR experience and an array of dining options, there is so much to do, see and explore at this joyous entertainment complex.
SUMPTUOUS STAYS
Chilston Park Hotel
17th-century manor house located in the town of Lenham that beckons staycationers to revel in its luxurious suites, outstanding service and idyllic surroundings. Rooms boast characterful period features, views across manicured gardens and a host of amenities for a stay to remember.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Tudor Park Country Club
Complete with an 18-hole championship golf course, excellent spa facilities and an indoor pool, Tudor Park is fully set for family-friendly getaways that combine luxury additions with home comforts.
Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel
Conveniently located for exploring surrounding hotspots, the Mercure has got all the added extras covered. Unwind with a beauty treatment at the spa, stay active at the tennis court or indulge in a great selection of eats in the on-site dining areas.
TOP PUBS IN TOWN
Market House
Perched proudly in the heart of the town centre, the Market House promises warm welcomes and an abundance of great food and eclectic beverages. Enjoy live music on the weekends and outdoor seating in the warmer months.
The White Horse
Delightful, family-focused country pub located just outside Maidstone in the town of Bearsted. With varied menus comprising light bites, hearty dishes and a wide selection of wines, lagers and real ales, complete with a stylish, comfortable interior.
The Herbalist
Taking inspiration from botanical pioneers Culpeper and Banks, The Herbalist’s Instagrammable bar and restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing cocktail or spirit. It is also the only place in Kent where you can enjoy Staropramen tank beer delivered directly from the brewer.
COFFEE BREAK
Craft Brewed
Supplying fresh coffee by day and top craft brews by night, dog-friendly Craft Brewed’s wide selection of high-quality beverages and menu of breakfast favourites are a hit with the locals.
The Little Old Toll House
Quirky coffee kiosk at Allington Lock on the River Medway that’s great for admiring the scenery. Hot bites include savoury pastries and sweet treats that are on offer daily, with plenty of vegan and gluten free options.
Puddings Coffee Shop
Alongside freshly brewed coffee, teas and smoothies, Puddings is known for its variety of irresistible sweet treats including milkshakes, pancakes, waffles and homemade bakes that are made with love using family recipes.
Divine Dining
Culpeper’s Restaurant
Holder of two AA Rosettes, Chilston Park Hotel’s on-site restaurant, Culpeper’s serves exquisite modern British dishes showcasing the creativity of head chef, Ali Altuntas and taking inspiration from the county’s abundance of seasonal delights. Accompanied by an extensive wine list and the opulent surroundings of the venue’s original dining room, a meal here is nothing short of divine.
Frédéric Bistro
Charming French café-bistro that captures the hearts of its diners with unfussy French dishes that are always carefully prepared and packed with fresh ingredients. With an adjacent wine shop, diners are promised the finest wine pairings to perfectly complement their chosen dishes.
La Taberna
Family-run Spanish restaurant and bar that serves up a plethora of tasty tapas. A fusion of Spain’s distinctive flavours and warming way of life, La Taberna are passionate about creating an inviting atmosphere for diners to enjoy delicious food and great wine.
CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
Hazlitt Theatre
Attracting local and national performers, musicians, tributes, dance schools and amateur dramatics to its stage, the Hazlitt Theatre has been treasured by the local community since 1955. With over 350 showcases a year to choose from, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Maidstone Carriage Museum
Housed in the 14th-century stables of the medieval Archbishop’s Palace used by the Archbishop of Canterbury when travelling through the county, this popular town museum offers visitors an enthralling insight into the history of transport through a special collection of horse-drawn vehicles and transport curiosities – with more than 60 vehicles on display including Queen Victoria’s State Landau.
Leeds Castle
Magnificent Leeds Castle is marvelled at by hundreds of visitors every year. Steeped in over 900 years of history and with former residents including medieval queens and the heroic Anglo-American heiress Lady Baillie, who is responsible for the glamorous restoration that’s made this historic jewel what it is today, Leeds Castle proudly displays its past through a variety of on-site attractions, special events and educational activities.
MUST-SHOP STORES & MARKETS
Fremlin Walk
Buzzing outdoor shopping centre perfectly positioned only a short distance from Maidstone’s main transport links that’s made up of over 40 eateries and shops, including top high-street brands.
Maidstone Market
Open every Tuesday and Saturday, with a Local Producers and Craft Market taking place the second Saturday in the month, Lockmeadow’s markets are a glorious display of Kentish produce, bakery goods, street food eats, flowers, homewares and more.
Golden Boot
As the longest-running, family owned, independent shoe shop in the country, which has been lovingly built by seven generations of shoemakers, merchants and traders since its founding in 1790, the Golden Boot stands proudly within the town centre and stocks a meticulously tailored collection of high-quality footwear for all occasions.
OUTDOORSY SPOTS
Mote Park
With rolling grassland, shaded woodlands and a 30-acre lake, this Green Flag-awarded greenspace stretches across 450 acres and is the perfect spot to embrace the great outdoors, take part in an active adventure or admire an array of wildlife. Alongside paths for walking and cycling, the park also features outdoor adventure facilities, a watersport centre, Model Railway and is a popular venue for some of Maidstone’s most anticipated events and festivals.
Stoneacre
A transporting 15th-century, half-timbered yeoman’s house surrounded by blossoming gardens, orchards and woodlands. Colourful planting takes centre stage towards the front of the house, with the rear garden embracing natural grasses. Inside, a grand Great Hall and beautiful collections of furniture, wood and metal work are open to the public for viewing.
Cobtree Manor Park
Located on the site of a former zoo and particularly striking this time of year as spring’s daffodils and cherry blossom make their appearance, Cobtree Manor Park features a zoo-themed play area, plenty of picnic spots, a sculpture trail, café and beautiful views across the North Downs.
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