Maidstone: Things To Do When You Visit Maidstone

Maidstone in Kent has lots to keep you occupied in and around it that you can enjoy. The town caters for young and old alike and we'll look below at just some of the popular tourist attractions here. 

Leeds Castle – This castle was a Norman stronghold and has also been the residence of 6 of England’s medieval queens and was used by Henry VIII more recently was bought by an American heiress in 1926. The heiress, Lady Baillie, was the last private person to own the castle and she had it lovingly restored and more recently, in 1974, she founded the charitable trust, called the Leeds Castle Foundation, to keep it up together.

When you visit the castle which is only a short drive from Maidstone you are transported back through 1,000 years of its history. As well as spending time exploring the castle's rooms and examine the numerous tapestries, paintings, furnishings and other antiques the castle also offers plenty of things to see and do outdoors as well. For the children there is the turf maze, Knight’s Realm playground and the bird aviary. Plus why not go and watch the exhibition of Falconry or spend time yourself in the other maze and grotto. Golfers can test their skill at the golf course in the castle's grounds. 

Stoneacre – This site is owned by the National Trust and the house itself dates back to the late 15th Century and the botanist in you can marvel at the orchards, gardens and meadows in the grounds. Inside the house itself, make sure to see the Crownpost and the Great Hall. However, one needs to be aware that this property is also a private residence and the tenant maintains the property for the National Trust. 

Hop Farm Country Park – If you have children and you want to get them to expend some of their energy this is the perfect place to spend a day at. Along with its museum there's also a discovery world, a display of military vehicles, as well as shire horses and an various farm animals. Regardless of the weather, your children can enjoy the adventure playgrounds - either inside or out and get rid of some of their energy.

The Museum Of Kent Life – Here you can look at a number of different historic buildings showing you how our ancestors would have lived in the Garden of England as Kent is referred to over the last 150 years. There is a petting farm for children to enjoy and there are also hop, kitchen and herb gardens for older visitors. And again the museum has an adventure playground for children to explore.

When you visit Maidstone, choose your Maidstone hotel or guest house here.