When it comes to Maidstone, Kent, England you will find that it has lots to keep you occupied in the town itself and close by as well. The town caters for young and old alike and below we look at a few of the attractions which are popular with visitors to this town. 

Leeds Castle – This castle can trace its history back to Norman times and was home to six different medieval English queens and also King Henry VIII as well as being a country house in the 1920’s. Lady Baillie was the last private owner of the castle and decided to restore it to its former glory 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 see the various antiques, tapestries, furnishings and paintings there are plenty of activities to keep one amused outside as well. Children visiting will enjoy the Kinght’s Realm playground and the turf maze as well as watching the birds in the 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 – Is a National Trust site and the main building goes back to the fifteenth 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 tire them out a bit make sure you spend a day in this country park. Inside, there is a museum but there is discovery world, a show of various military vehicles, an animal farm and shire horses as well. 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 variety of 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 stay in Maidstone, find your Maidstone accommodation here.