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Maidstone, the county town of Kent, is nestled in the heart of the 'Garden of England' and is defined by the slow-flowing River Medway that runs through its centre. It’s a lively, historic town that serves as the perfect base for exploring the region’s ancient castles and rolling countryside.
The jewel in the area's crown is the magnificent Leeds Castle, often called the 'loveliest castle in the world', set on two islands in a lake. In the town itself, you can explore centuries of history at the Maidstone Museum or stroll along the river to the medieval Archbishop's Palace. For a taste of the Kentish countryside, Mote Park offers a huge green space with a lake for sailing, while the surrounding area is famed for its vineyards and oast houses.
The best location for your Maidstone hotel is within the Town Centre, which provides the easiest access to the main shopping areas, dining, and the River Medway for boat trips.
Hotels near the Maidstone East Railway Station and the Fremlin Walk shopping centre offer the most central convenience. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the Maidstone Museum, the Archbishop's Palace, and the departure points for the Kentish Lady Riverboat Trip along the Medway. This central hub is ideal for those who want a lively, urban base.
For visitors prioritising large green spaces, look for accommodation closer to Mote Park, located just south of the centre. This area provides a great family-friendly base with immediate access to the park's cycling, sailing, and play areas. For those focusing on history, hotels slightly outside the centre towards Bearsted offer the best access to Leeds Castle and the beautiful surrounding villages.
Maidstone is served by three railway stations: Maidstone East (with direct links to London Victoria), Maidstone West, and Maidstone Barracks. Maidstone East is the most central. Local bus services are efficient for travelling around the town and reaching sites like Kent Life Heritage Farm. The town's proximity to the M20 motorway makes it easily accessible for car travellers.
Hotel prices in Maidstone are heavily influenced by corporate demand due to its status as a commercial and county hub. Prices are generally highest during the mid-week, from Monday to Thursday, when business travellers are present.
The best value is found over the weekend, particularly a Sunday night. The high season runs throughout the summer, but prices are also affected by events at Leeds Castle and the local agricultural calendar. A unique detail for Maidstone is the concentration of events at Mote Park. Checking the dates of major concerts, festivals, or large local gatherings here can help you avoid temporary price spikes at local hotels.