The Maidstone area is the real heart of Kent, and boasts one of the county’s best known
and most popular attractions - Leeds Castle. It’s magnificent setting and picturesque design
has drawn many comparisons to the French chateau’s, and it’s often touted as the ‘Lovliest
Castle in the World’.
But this overshadow the rest of the district, as this area also has plenty of other offerings
worthy of a visit. The county town itself (Maidstone), has a surprising number of historic
buildings and interesting museums, as well as some
very pleasant walks along the River Medway. More can
be found in the surrounding countryside, most notably in
the attractive old town of Aylesford. Here, as well as
the historic bridge across the Medway, are the Friars
with their long and intruiging history.
Nearby is the Museum of Kent Life (see the Museums
page), which takes a step back in time to the days of
Kent that have long sice slipped into the history books.
Amongst other interesting places to visit is the small
but impressive Tyland Barn Nature Reserve, nestling at
the bottom of the chalk downs. It has a well-presented
museum, and wildlife ponds to teach the children about
the natural world around them.
With the River Medway running through the region, it’s
also no surprise there are more than enough riverside
walks, medieval bridges, and picnic areas, to keep
everyone happy.
and most popular attractions -
Castle in the World’.
But this overshadow the rest of the district, as this area also has plenty of other offerings
worthy of a visit. The county town itself (Maidstone), has a surprising number of historic
buildings and interesting museums, as well as some
very pleasant walks along the River Medway. More can
be found in the surrounding countryside, most notably in
the attractive old town of Aylesford. Here, as well as
the historic bridge across the Medway, are the Friars
with their long and intruiging history.
Nearby is the Museum of Kent Life (see the Museums
page), which takes a step back in time to the days of
Kent that have long sice slipped into the history books.
Amongst other interesting places to visit is the small
but impressive Tyland Barn Nature Reserve, nestling at
the bottom of the chalk downs. It has a well-
the natural world around them.
With the River Medway running through the region, it’s
also no surprise there are more than enough riverside
walks, medieval bridges, and picnic areas, to keep
everyone happy.
