Free Things to Do in Maidstone

Visit Mote Park for a Family Day Out in Maidstone

Spanning over 450 acres, Mote Park is one of the largest public parks in the southeast of England. It's perfect for families, with adventure playgrounds, wildlife-filled lakes, and wide open spaces for picnics and games. Bring a football, hire a paddleboat (seasonal, extra cost), or simply enjoy the scenic walking trails.

Did you know? Mote Park has received the Green Flag Award for being one of the best green spaces in the UK.

Walk or Cycle the River Medway Towpath

For those who love an active day outdoors, the River Medway Towpath offers picturesque walking and cycling routes through the heart of Maidstone. The path is mostly flat and traffic-free, making it ideal for all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, enjoy views of charming locks, historic bridges, and riverside pubs (perfect for a rest stop).

See Our Guide To The River Medway 

Explore Vinters Valley Nature Reserve

Escape the bustle of town at Vinters Valley Nature Reserve, a 90-acre haven for local wildlife. Keep an eye out for foxes, bats, frogs, and a wide variety of birds. The site is rich in biodiversity and features a range of habitats including woodland, meadows, and wetlands.

Relax in Brenchley Gardens: A Free Park in Maidstone Town Centre

Tucked behind the Maidstone Museum, Brenchley Gardens is an elegant Victorian park ideal for a relaxing break while exploring the town. With well-kept flowerbeds, shady trees, and summer bandstand performances, it's the perfect spot to unwind or enjoy a picnic.

Discover Maidstone Museum: Free Entry All Year Round

Housed in a stunning Elizabethan manor house, Maidstone Museum offers fascinating exhibits on local history, art, archaeology, and natural history. Highlights include Egyptian mummies, Japanese artefacts, and collections from the Stone Age to the present day.

Tip: Admission is free, though donations are welcomed to help support this local gem.

Visit the Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment Museum for Free

Located within Maidstone Museum, this smaller but equally captivating museum honours the history of the Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment. It features uniforms, medals, photographs, and personal stories that bring military history to life.

Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour of Maidstone

Pick up a free map or download one online and enjoy a self-guided walking tour through Maidstone's rich past. Highlights include the Archbishop's Palace, All Saints Church, and the historic High Street. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the town's story at your own pace.

Bearsted Market on the Green

Held on the first Sunday of each month, Bearsted Market is set in the picturesque village green—a quintessential English setting. Local farmers, bakers, crafters, and small business owners gather here to showcase their goods.

What to expect:

• Fresh bread, artisan cheeses, handmade candles, preserves, and locally sourced meats.
• Atmosphere: Relaxed and family-friendly, often with live acoustic music or community activities.

Insider tip: Combine your visit with a walk around the village or a Sunday lunch at one of Bearsted's charming pubs.

East Farleigh Farmers Market

This welcoming village market takes place monthly in the Old School Hall. It's a favourite among locals looking for truly local produce and homemade treats.

What to expect

• Organic fruits and vegetables, local honey, free-range eggs, handmade soaps, and seasonal goodies like wild garlic or foraged mushrooms.
• Atmosphere: Intimate and chatty—great for getting to know the producers and learning about where your food comes from

Bonus: Many stalls accept card payments, though some are cash-only, so come prepared.

Maidstone Market 

Running every Tuesday and Saturday, Maidstone Market is the largest and most frequent of the local markets. It offers a broader range of goods, perfect for a morning browse.

What to expect

• In addition to food and craft stalls, you'll find vintage clothing, tools, toys, books, homeware, and seasonal plants.
• Atmosphere: Bustling and lively, with a mix of long-time traders and new faces.

Fun fact: Lockmeadow also hosts events throughout the year—check the schedule when you visit for possible free entertainment or themed market days.

Hollingbourne

Nestled at the foot of the North Downs, Hollingbourne is a designated conservation area and part of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village boasts scenic walking trails along the North Downs Way, with sweeping views across the Kentish countryside.

Leeds Village

Just down the road from the famous Leeds Castle (entry fees apply there), the village of Leeds itself is peaceful and postcard-perfect. Wander through the village and discover its quiet charm.

Yalding

Situated where three rivers meet—the Medway, Beult, and Teise—Yalding is ideal for waterside walks and exploring old-world Kent. It's also home to community gardens and seasonal events.