Driving in Maidstone, as in the whole UK, is on the left side of the road. It's something immensely important for anyone who is not familiar with this traffic rule. When hiring a car, consider a vehicle with an automatic transmission. This will allow you to focus more on the road and less on the gearshift.
Car Hire and Parking
Several car hire companies operate in Maidstone and these include national chains and local brands. Online comparison websites can often help you score the best rates. Once you're in Maidstone, parking is straightforward with many car parks located around the town, including Fremlin Walk, Mall Maidstone and Barker Road Multi-Storey Car Park.
Attractions Worth Visiting
Maidstone is home to a rich variety of attractions that are sure to satisfy all sorts of interests, and having a hire car makes exploring these much simpler.
Leeds Castle
Just a short drive from Maidstone, Leeds Castle is a must-visit. Described as 'the loveliest castle in the world', it sits on two islands in a beautiful lake and is surrounded by parkland.
Maidstone Museum
For lovers of history and art, the Maidstone Museum is sure to be an unmissable spot. The museum is home to a vast collection of fine art, natural history exhibits, and archaeological objects.
Kentish Lady River Cruise
To take a break from driving, how about a relaxing boat trip down the River Medway on the Kentish Lady riverboat? With several pick-up piers along the way, you can hop on and off as you please.
Excursions from Maidstone
With its location in the 'Garden of England', Maidstone is a great starting point for discovering the vast Kent countryside or perhaps even a day trip to London, which is just over an hour's drive away.
Canterbury
A 40-minute drive from Maidstone will take you to the historic city of Canterbury, famous for its stunning cathedral, interesting shops, and quaint cafes.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden
Another great day trip is Sissinghurst Castle Garden, a 30-minute drive away. This world-famous garden was created by Vita Sackville-West and is known for its garden "rooms", each with a different theme and aesthetic.
Planning Your Road Trips
Speed limits in the UK typically are 30mph in built-up areas, 60mph on single carriageways, and 70mph on dual carriageways and motorways. Always keep an eye out for signages as these limits can change. Also, it's a good practise to keep some coins handy for potential toll roads.
A sat-nav or a map can be invaluable, particularly if you plan to explore Kent's countryside. It's always a good idea to plan your route in advance, especially if you want to avoid peak traffic or closed roads.
Time Your Visit
While Maidstone can be visited all year round, spring and summer are particularly inviting. The town comes alive with various events like music festivals, open-air theatre performances and sport events. Consider checking Maidstone's event calendar when planning your trip.
