Location: Maidstone
Top Things to do in Maidstone
Things to do in Maidstone, England: The Best Nature & Parks
Maidstone is a large, historically important town in Kent, England, of which it is the county town. The River Medway runs through the centre of the town, linking it with Rochester and the Thames Estuary. Historically, the river carried much of the town's trade as the centre of the agricultural county of Kent, known as the Garden of England. There is evidence of settlement in the area dating back before the Stone Age. The town, part of the borough of Maidstone, had a population of 107,627 people in 2011. There has been a shift in the town's economy since the Second World War away from heavy industry towards light industry and services.
Restaurants in Maidstone
1. Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 175 reviews
Reviewed By 820dianai - Meopham, United Kingdom
There are around 150 rescued goats living happily in beautiful countryside. You can wander around the massive field enclosure and and get close to the goats who are very friendly. There is a small cafe and gift shop where goat food can be purchased. I booked the 'Walking with Goats' experience for my son and his family and despite the cold windy weather it was a great success. Walking through the fields with two extremely strong, but good natured goats on leads was certainly a novel experience. We were accompanied by a knowledgeable and experienced guide which enhanced the walk. Wonderful for children who are happy with animals and I will definitely go again .
2. Kent Owl Academy
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 195 reviews
The Kent Owl Academy is a family run business, situated within the confines of 'Kent Life' in Maidstone. Providing Experience days, School visits, Visits to Brownies and other organisations, Photography workshops, Corporate events and TV/Film/Media work and much more! Get up close and personal with owls and exotic animals!
Reviewed By GibsonsNZ
My son undertook the Junior Keeper Experience today and totally loved it! The staff we so friendly and informative, and we were made so welcome. The animals are so well cared for and are absolutely beautiful. The Academy is set in the Kent Life Museum which is brilliant to visit too. Great for families. If you’re visiting Kent, you should totally go. Highly recommend!
3. Bearsted Woodland Trust
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Reviewed By mudzote1
Visited here for the first time today with our pooch. We all loved it here ! Parked in the free church car park which has ample parking spaces. Took about an hour and 15 mins to walk around the park fully. Lots of paths to follow, leading in all different directions. Good to discover where each path leads! Lots of woodland areas, meadows, wooden sculptures. There is a play park, mini maze and fitness equipment for children. Will return.
4. Mote Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 986 reviews
Reviewed By SteMar247 - Maidstone, United Kingdom
We love walking our dog round the lake and often see woodpeckers, kingfishers, geese, grebes, cormorants and lots more wildlife. The park houses a nature reserve, model train that kids can ride, a Go Ape experience, football pitches, rugby pitches, a cafe, play area, swimming pool and a large fishing lake with a specialist dementia walk round it.
5. Cobtree Manor Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 380 reviews
Reviewed By L4857ZGsarahp
This is a great place to visit for all ages. We had a lovely walk around the park and the woods. My son loved running in and out of the trees, a perfect place for hide and seek. The play area is fab, different slides, climbing equipment and swings. There is also play equipment scattered around the park making it even more exciting.
6. Vinters Valley Nature Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 48 reviews
Reviewed By I5360YGscottc
This is a lovely nature reserve nestled between housing estates and the busy ashford road/school area. There is plenty to see here ranging from old buildings from when a large house stood in the grounds to a diverse wildlife landscape. It is well used by the the locals but is never busy and is a nice quiet and scenic area just outside Maidstone.
7. Clare Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12 reviews
8. The Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13 reviews
The Gardens is a beautiful exclusive-use venue that is available to hire for weddings, parties and business events including exhibitions and conferences. With its contemporary styled barn, a picturesque gazebo and two interlinked tipis, all set within 12 acres of unique and historic gardens, The Gardens provides a truly magnificent setting for your special occasion.
Reviewed By A2788NFjoannes
Wow! We visited the new Tipis Restaurant to celebrate our 1st wedding anniversary after getting married at the venue. We didn't think we could love the venue any more but we were still blown away! The staff were amazing as always, the decor is gorgeous and the food devine! Best meal out I have ever ha Thank you - we can't wait to return.
9. Whatman Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 54 reviews
Reviewed By R1942QEangelaa
Lovely park and if you look carefully you will find the amazing wood carvings in the trees and it’s a lovely walk and a stones through from Mote Park
10. White Horse Wood Country Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 66 reviews
Reviewed By avrilmob - Liverpool, United Kingdom
A little haven! Well worth a visit for peace, tranquility & fabulous views! Dog friendly too and great walks for all ability’s, our group of 9 was from age 12 to 77 and all thoroughly enjoyed the day, walking, lazing and having a wonderful picnic. Only £1 in the carpark!
