Dope AfrikaLooking for the best & Fun things to do in Maidstone? The lovely county town of Maidstone in the English province of Kent is a veritable gold mine of intriguing experiences just waiting to be discovered. Nestled in the heart of the Garden of England, Maidstone offers a delightful blend of rich history, picturesque landscapes, cultural heritage, and exciting attractions.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or an avid adventurer, Maidstone has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we present you with the top remarkable fun things to do in Maidstone, ensuring an unforgettable visit to this enchanting destination.
Fun things to do in Maidstone
1 Discover Leeds Castle
Begin your journey with a visit to the iconic Leeds Castle. Often referred to as the “loveliest castle in the world,” it offers breathtaking views, remarkable architecture, and beautiful gardens.
Leeds Castle offers a vast array of exciting events throughout the year. Whether you’re seeking thrilling activities, cultural enrichment, a romantic break, a weekend getaway, or simply a day out with family and friends, there’s something for everyone at this magnificent castle and its idyllic grounds.
A visit to Leeds Castle should be included on your list of fun things to do in Maidstone if you’re yet to do so.
2 Explore Maidstone Museum
Delve into the town’s vibrant history at Maidstone Museum. Immerse yourself in its vast collection of artifacts, including ancient treasures, fine art, and fascinating exhibitions.
The museum has an extensive collection of over 600,000 artifacts, including archaeology, natural history, fine and decorative arts, and ethnography. The museum also houses an art gallery featuring a diverse range of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. The collection includes works by renowned artists, as well as local artists with connections to Maidstone.
As a history buff looking for a place to unwind, the Maidstone Museum ought to be on your list of top things to do in Maidstone.
3 Stroll through Mote Park
Escape the bustle of the town and lose yourself in the tranquility of Mote Park. This expansive green oasis features stunning rivers & lakes, woodlands, and a variety of recreational activities for all ages.
Mote Park has existed as an entity since the 13th Century and has been owned by many people including the royal family and the founder of the Royal Dutch Shell oil company.
Now spanning over 180 hectares, the park is freely accessible to the public and is an ideal location for the whole family.
Some of the top activities at the park are children’s play areas, dino golf, Sky Trail, wall climbing, watersports center, and leisure center.
4 Step Back in Time at Allington Castle
Allington Castle is a medieval 12th-century castle nestled in 42 acres of picturesque woodland on the banks of the Medway River, located about three miles northwest of Maidstone.
Among the many grand spaces within the castle is the Great Hall, where Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn dined with Sir Thomas Wyatt around 1530. This historical gem provides a fascinating glimpse into England’s rich past, surrounded by the natural beauty of its woodland and riverside setting.
Today, the Castle is a beautifully restored example of a medieval dwelling with stunning gardens, towers, and a breathtaking courtyard. A visit to the castle will be one of the best memories you’ll ever have in Maidstone.
5 Experience Kent Life
Discover rural Kent at Kent Life, an open-air museum offering a glimpse into the county’s farming heritage. Enjoy interacting with farm animals, exploring vintage buildings, and experiencing traditional crafts.
6 Wander Through Cobtree Manor Park
Escape into nature at Cobtree Manor Park, a picturesque haven boasting lush gardens, scenic walks, and an adventure playground.
The Park which spans more than 50 acres, should be on your list of fun things to do in Maidstone as it is renowned for its display of a varied and growing array of trees and shrubs.
Standing on the site of the old Maidstone Zoo, the park features a themed play area, along with a sculpture trail, plenty of space for picnics, and a café serving hot and cold food and drinks. Don’t miss the chance to admire the beauty of the Kentish countryside.
7 Admire Historic Architecture at The Archbishop’s Palace
One of the best fun things to do in Maidstone is to visit the historic Archbishop Palace, one of Maidstone’s iconic buildings dating back to the 14th century.
The Medieval Palace has developed and changed since the Middle Ages, with parts being removed and rebuilt according to the needs of the time.
Today, the palace is one of the country’s most popular wedding venues. Every September, as part of Heritage Open Days, there are tours of the building for those who don’t want to wear a top hat or fascinator to go inside!
8 Visit Bredgar & Wormshill Light Railway
Immerse yourself in the charm of a bygone era at the Bredgar & Wormshill Light Railway. Ride on vintage steam and diesel trains, and learn about the fascinating history of this preserved railway.
9 Enjoy a Riverside Walk at Teston Bridge Country Park
If you’re a beach lover, then Teston Bridge Country Park should be on your list of fun things to do in Maidstone as you indulge in a serene riverside walk at the Park.
The park is a great place to go fishing or to see vessels cruising. This country park is a terrific place to spend the day as it has a picnic area, new children’s play area, and convenient entry points.
Take in the stunning views, picnic by the river, or hire a boat and embark on a leisurely paddle along the tranquil waters.
10 Unwind at Spa Valley Railway
Embark on a nostalgic steam train journey through the picturesque Kentish countryside with Spa Valley Railway. Spa Valley Railway takes you on a picturesque railway journey through part of Kent and Sussex.
Enjoy pleasant views as the steam or heritage diesel train winds through five miles of the countryside into Tunbridge Wells, with plenty to see and do if you choose to disembark along the way.
Also, Read, 21 Best things to do in Keswick (United Kingdom)
11 Explore the Historic Cobtree Manor Estate
Visit the Cobtree Manor Estate, a sprawling estate with a rich history. Situated on the outskirts of Maidstone, the estate covers approximately 50 hectares and offers a picturesque setting for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. The estate boasts beautiful woodlands, meadows, and open spaces that are ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and relaxation. Visitors can explore the well-maintained trails and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The estate includes two fishing lakes, which are popular among anglers. Fishing permits are available for purchase, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful day of fishing in a serene natural setting.
12 Visit Hazlitt Arts Centre
Experience the vibrant art scene of Maidstone at Hazlitt Arts Centre. The Hazlitt Arts Centre offers a varied program from popular music & famous names to drama & children’s shows throughout the year.
Enjoy exhibitions by local and international artists, catch a theater performance, or participate in a creative workshop.
13 Discover the Beauty of Tyland Barn Nature Reserve
Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the Tyland Barn Nature Reserve. A beautifully renovated 17th-century barn that serves as a tourist center with wildlife exhibits, a sizable wildlife garden, information on wildlife events, a classroom for groups and schools, a small cafe, and a store selling animal-themed books, houses, and presents. The barn is surrounded by a variety of Kentish ecosystems, and the park is full of animals.
14 Visit All Saints Church
One of the biggest and most beautiful Perpendicular buildings in England is the Parish Church of the county town of Kent, which was partly constructed by Archbishop Courtenay in the fourteenth century. The Washington family memorial and the medieval choir stalls are noteworthy.
All Saints Church is currently working on a heritage trail and whilst it is not yet complete it is well worth having a look at some of their pictures it is an inspiring place to visit.
15 Whatman Park
Whatman Park lies at the heart of Maidstone River Park just half a mile from the town centre. This 18-acre site combines a natural landscape of woodland and wildflower meadows with adventure play areas, a treetop walk, a skatepark, and a river stage open-air performance arena, offering a retreat with countless activities for all the family. Pleasure boats can stop at Whatman Park Wharf and the Kentish Lady can make request stops.
16 Stoneacre
Stoneacre is a 15th-century half-timbered yeoman’s house, featuring a great hall and surrounded by a glorious garden, orchard, and meadows.
Explore over 500 years of history at this beautifully restored medieval yeoman’s house. Each of Stoneacre’s rooms, including the parlor, the solar, and the great hall, has historical features to observe and a fascinating story to tell.
17 Hucking Estate
This stunning old woodland, which is perched atop the North Downs, is home to one of England’s most breathtaking bluebell treks. It undoubtedly ranks in the top five of the entire Bluebell Walk Woods of the Woodland Trust.
More than that, though, it is a haven for animals and is home to a variety of diverse species. There are also breathtaking hikes there that are wonderful in any season and range in length from roughly 1.5 km to 5 km, depending on the path you select.
Along the route, find the live log and numerous more fascinating wooden sculptures. There are seats and resting areas throughout the route where you may simply take in the tranquility of nature.
18 Funky Feast
As you come to the conclusion of your trip to Maidstone, one of the top recommended places to sample various meals is the Funky Feast.
Most people know this excellent restaurant for its vegan and meat options. The restaurant also has a street food vendor selling fare from the Mediterranean, Africa, and the Middle East.
Among the vegan options are chickpea & root vegetable tagine, crunchy falafel, pulled cajun jackfruit, sweet potato fries, and mushroom croquettes.
You should put a visit to the Funky Feast on your list of fun things to do in Maidstone as you’ll be delighted by the vibrant selection of cuisine there, all of which are waiting for you to sample.
Best time to visit Maidstone
The best and busiest months for tourist visits in Maidstone, the United Kingdom is January, followed by July and August. These are the finest months, in the opinion of visitors, to take advantage of peaceful activities in this bustling city.
Frequently Asked Questions about Maidstone
Q: Where is Maidstone located?
A: Maidstone is a town located in the county of Kent, England. It is situated in the southeastern part of the country.
Q: What is Maidstone known for?
A: Maidstone is known for its rich history and heritage. It is often referred to as the county town of Kent and has a long-standing association with the agricultural and brewing industries. Additionally, Maidstone is known for its beautiful countryside, including the nearby Kent Downs, as well as its annual events like the Maidstone River Festival and the Maidstone Fringe Festival.
Q: How far is Maidstone from London?
A: The distance between Maidstone and London is approximately 35 miles (56 kilometers) when traveling by road. The journey time can vary depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation.
Q: What are some popular attractions in Maidstone?
A: Maidstone offers various attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some popular ones include Leeds Castle, a stunning castle surrounded by a moat and beautiful gardens; Mote Park, a large public park with lakes, woodlands, and recreational facilities; The Historic Dockyard Chatham, which showcases the maritime history and includes the famous warship HMS Victory; and Cobtree Manor Park and many more.
Q: How can I travel to Maidstone?
A: Maidstone is well-connected by road and rail. If you’re traveling by train, there are direct services from London and other major cities in the UK to Maidstone East and Maidstone West railway stations. If you prefer driving, the town is easily accessible via the M20 motorway, which connects to London and the rest of the motorway network. Additionally, several bus services operate within and around Maidstone, providing local transportation.
Q: What are the nearby attractions to Maidstone?
A: Maidstone’s location in Kent provides easy access to numerous attractions in the surrounding area. Some nearby places of interest include Leeds Castle, Rochester Castle and Cathedral, Canterbury Cathedral, the White Cliffs of Dover, and the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The county of Kent is also known for its picturesque villages, coastal towns, and vineyards, offering a range of options for day trips and exploration.
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