Visit Maidstone in Kent

Maidstone is the county town of Kent in England, which is a unique town situated about an hour away from London. I have a friend that lives in Maidstone whom I visit very often. I sometimes go there to visit for a night or two at weekends.

Maidstone has a river that runs through the centre of the town. It links Maidstone to Rochester and the Thames Estuary. Maidstone's River Medway was the source and trade for the town's trade many years ago. Maidstone was, also, the centre of the agricultural county of Kent and was known as the Garden of England. The Romans left there mark in Maidstone and the Normans set up a shire moot there.

Maidstone is a great place to live and a leisurely place to spend weekends in the town centre. There are lots of shopping areas in Maidstone and places to eat and drink. There are, also a few night clubs. There are even cinema complexes and inside are some restaurants and pubs where I have been a few times with my friends.

What to See and do in Maidstone

Maidstone Museum - The museum is in a charming Elizabethan Manor House in the centre of Maidstone. There are plenty of exhibits and objects to see as well as regular story telling and children's holiday activities. The entry into the museum is free. For more information go to the Maidstone Museum website.

Leeds Castle - This castle is not far from Maidstone. The castle is full of antique furnishing. It is considered to be one of the most romantic castles in England. Leeds Castle was the stately home of the Saxon royal family during the reign of Ethelbert IV in 856-860. The castle is set in over 500 acres of parkland. Prices are £17.50 per person for adults and £10.00 per child from 4 -15 years. For details go to the Leeds Castle website.

Museum of Kent Life - This museum is tucked away on the outskirts of Maidstone just of junction six of the M20. Kent Life has offered family fun for over 20 years. It has a farmyard of animals including sheep, cows, pigs, horses, rabbits, goats, ducks, chickens and lambs. It has a picnic area, gardens an aviary, numerous historic buildings and a nature trail. There is so much to do and there are year around events and activities going on. Prices are £8.50 per adult and prices for children start at £5.50 per person. Go to the Museum of Kent Life website for more information.

The Historic White Rabbit Pub - A traditional pub in Maidstone that was originally built in Maidstone in 1797. In 1797, it was built as a reaction to the threat of Napoleon. The White Rabbit occupies the officer's quarters of the Invicta Barracks. By 1813, the barracks along the Sandling Road were used to train the cavalry's young horses. Twenty years later they became the Army Riding School. Now at the White Rabbit is a pub that serves meals, drinks and fine wine or a pint. There is also accommodation of 12 bedrooms at the Innkeeper's Lodge, which is next door. Go to the White Rabbit's website for more information.

So, if visiting Kent be sure to check out all of these places.