Visit the Kent Owl Academy for a truly magical experience. Housing hundreds of birds in their facility, this family run business is very famous. Their fabulous owls are particularly popular with schoolchildren, and as such, the academy organizes school visits and Experience Days regularly. Interestingly, many owls from here have featured in movies and television shows as well, adding further credibility to this place.
A walk down the corridors of history, Tyrwhitt Drake Museum of Carriages lets one peek into the humble times when transportation was less technology driven. This museum has a collection of close to 60 carriages including fancy ones that transported Queen Victoria, herself. Housed in a historic stable, these antique vehicles have been preserved to their original glory to delineate tales of their aristocratic past. The museum's name commemorates the former owner of this fascinating collection and Maidstone's erstwhile mayor, Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake.
Just a short drive outside London, this ancient castle stands as testament to the fact that a short day trip can leave one feeling truly transported to a far-off time and place. Basically a fortified pair of islands, the estate is known for its impeccably manicured grounds, impressive stone architecture, and beautiful country vistas. Stately rooms house intriguing exhibitions and opulent apartments offer visitors the chance to gain a deeper insight into their famous inhabitants. What's more, due to staunch conservation efforts, the facility's unique aviaries have become almost as well known as the castle itself.
Maidstone Museum & Art Gallery is a lovely museum that is situated in an Elizabethan Manor House. There are several galleries and museums located within the premises, each exhibiting wonderful elements over the centuries. The museum is open to public visitation throughout the year and entry to this place is cost free. It is also available as a venue for private functions such as birthday parties and conferences. The museum is disabled friendly as well. The Kentish Deli-Cafe housed in the museum is a good place to grab refreshments. It also arranges for special group visits and school visits.
Originally established in the 14th Century as a collegiate church, All Saints Church at Maidstone was converted in to the parish church, in 1546, when the college was closed. This beautiful church has historic sights and artifacts tucked away in almost every corner. The tower houses a ring of ten bells that are regularly rung by the church's bell ringing society. All Saints church accommodates visitors in a manner that is so genuine and kind that you are sure to leave with a sense of comfort and belonging even if it is your first visit. Groups are welcome and guided tours can be arranged by contacting the church office. If history and churches are things that interest you, then be sure to drop by this church, and prepare to be amazed by the many stories hidden within its walls.
The spell-binding performances belonging to varied art forms at historic Theatre Royal Margate are a treat for the art lovers. Dating back to the pre-Victorian era, the theater was a vibrant venue for live theater, having hosted has been host to some of the best talents of the Victorian era. This heritage theater has gone through major renovations and additions to the original structure before its doors reopened in 2007, after being closed for several years. Today, the performing arts events held here are curated extensively and invites major South East theater productions for performances, and hosts plethora of events like comedy shows, concerts, dance and opera. Be ready to catch up on the re-enactment of Shakespearean plays or some awesome original creations. Call or visit their website to know more.
The Woodlands Youth Center is a community center in Gillingham that aims to encourage the social skills of young people and develop their artistic and creative abilities. Along with dance, music and karaoke events, it also hosts workshops and seminars. One needs to sign up to take part in these events. Contact them for more details.
Listed as a Grade I building, the All Saints Church Ulcombe is an Evangelical 12th-century church. Made with rubble stones and tiled roof, it has undergone many renovations over the decades. There are old Yew trees in the courtyard of the church that are said to be about 2000 years old. The church community is active and conducts events, service prayers and Sunday school for children and adults alike.
The crypt of St. Leonard church houses a large number of human bones. It has bones of about 4000 people including women and children. The reason behind the presence of bones in such huge number is still unknown. The bones are kept in neat piles and stacks for public display. A nominal admission fee is charged and this is a source of income for the church.