Maidstone Area Guide

Living in Maidstone

Situated at the heart of Kent, Maidstone is a historic town on the River Medway. Once famous for its industrial prowess, today it boasts outstanding shopping facilities, peaceful parks, scenic cycling routes and an excellent choice of restaurants and nightlife venues. Property in Maidstone benefits from excellent transport links, making it the perfect place to call home. At Wards of Kent, we’re here to make your dream of living in Maidstone a reality, offering expert advice and support every step of the way.

Where is Maidstone?

Maidstone is the largest town in Kent, located just 30 miles from London. Whilst its convenient location makes it a great choice for commuters, it still retains the charm of a historic market town, with a rich heritage, scenic riverside views, and a bustling town centre. Situated on the River Medway, Maidstone is well-connected by both road and rail, offering direct train services to London and easy access to major motorways. The town is also home to renowned attractions such as Leeds Castle and Mote Park, drawing visitors from across the UK.

Is Maidstone a Nice Place to Live?

Maidstone is a fantastic place to live for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Offering both rural charm and urban amenities, the town provides a high quality of life for its residents. With excellent schools, shops, restaurants, and plenty of green spaces like Mote Park, living in Maidstone allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds – a thriving town centre and splendid countryside on your doorstep. The local property market is diverse, with properties ranging from spacious family homes with gardens to cosy Victorian terraces and modern apartments. Whether you’re looking to buy your forever home or find your next rental property, our estate agents are here to assist.

Primary and Secondary Schools in Maidstone

Families living in Maidstone appreciate the many excellent primary and secondary schools available to them. For younger children, Allington Primary, Loose Primary, and Palace Wood Primary are highly rated, whilst top secondary schools include Oakwood Park Boys' Grammar, Maidstone Girls' Grammar, and Invicta Grammar School for Girls. Mid Kent College and the University of Kent provide a variety of courses to support higher education and vocational training. Maidstone’s impressive range of educational institutions makes it an ideal location for families seeking high-quality education for their children.

Shopping in Maidstone

Maidstone offers a fantastic range of shops, catering to all needs and budgets. The town centre is full of major retailers, including high-street favourites like John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, and Boots. For those who enjoy independent boutiques, Maidstone has a variety of unique shops offering everything from fashion to homewares. The Mall and Fremlin Walk are two popular shopping centres, giving access to a great selection of stores, restaurants, and cafes all under one roof. Whether you’re looking for everyday essentials, the latest trends, or a unique gift for a loved one, the town’s diverse shopping scene has something for everyone.

Travel Links in Maidstone

Excellent travel links in Maidstone make getting around the South East and beyond easy. The town is served by three railway stations - Maidstone Barracks, Maidstone East, and Maidstone West. Maidstone East offers direct trains to London Victoria, with journey times of just over an hour, which is ideal for commuters. For motorists, Maidstone is conveniently located near the M20, providing quick access to destinations across the region. The Eurotunnel entrance at Folkestone is only 40 minutes away, and the M20 also connects to the M25, making it easy to explore the wider area. Whether you're travelling for work or leisure, Maidstone's transport links offer great convenience.

Is Maidstone Safe?

Maidstone is considered the third safest major town in Kent, making it an appealing location for families and individuals alike. Whilst, like any town, there are areas with higher crime rates, its overall crime rate remains relatively low compared to other towns in the region. Maidstone is renowned for its strong sense of community, with local residents actively involved in maintaining safety and supporting one another. There are plenty of family-friendly areas, parks, and green spaces where people of all ages can enjoy the outdoors with peace of mind. Overall, living in Maidstone is a great choice for those seeking a safe and secure place to call home.

Restaurants in Maidstone

You’ll find a huge selection of top-rated restaurants in Maidstone, catering to all tastes and budgets. Sample traditional Greek cuisine at Artemis Greek Restaurant, indulge in a hearty steak at Buenos Aires Nights Steakhouse or enjoy a bottomless brunch and cocktails at Mumu. You’ll also find plenty of cafes and pubs serving up delicious meals, from light bites to hearty pub classics. Whether you’re in the mood for coffee and cake or a memorable fine dining experience, you’re spoilt for choice when living in Maidstone.

Things to Do in Maidstone

There are plenty of things to do in Maidstone, keeping residents entertained throughout the year. Sports fans can enjoy watching Maidstone United play at the Gallagher Stadium or work on their swing at the nearby Tudor Park Hotel and Country Club, which boasts an 18-hole golf course. For those looking to stay active, the Maidstone Leisure Centre offers swimming pools, a kids' soft play area, and an impressive fitness suite.

For a cultural experience, the famous Leeds Castle is just a short distance away, providing a stunning setting and plenty of history to explore. Shopping enthusiasts can visit Fremlin Walk, an open-air shopping mall located just off the High Street, for retail therapy and a bite to eat. Whether you’re into sports, history, or shopping, you won’t be short of things to do when living in Maidstone.

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