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Discover the Magic of Winter in Maidstone

Christmas at Leeds Castle

Christmas Lights

21st Nov to 31st Dec

A Festive Wonderland Awaits! Returning with new breathtaking Water Fountains Show! Firmly established as one of the best Christmas events in Kent, this after-dark illuminated trail promises to bring festive joy to all who visit. Whether you're searching for the perfect Christmas activity, a memorable festive experience, or a new holiday tradition, Leeds Castle offers an unforgettable celebration for families, friends, and couples alike.

Neverland Christmas 

22nd Nov to 4th Jan

In collaboration with Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity,  step into the beloved world of JM Barrie’s Peter Pan for a Christmas adventure full of wonder, imagination, and storytelling. Included in your admission ticket!

Explore the whimsical Lost Boys’ hideout, then glide into the shimmering Mermaid Lagoon. Join Peter Pan himself* for an exciting quest to outwit Captain Hook* in the Salon, before ascending a spiralling staircase to Hook’s mischievous lair, filled with his sneaky plans and pirate secrets.

*Note, live characters will be performing on weekends and during the school holidays.

Gifting and Shopping Locally

This festive season, explore a delightful selection of locally crafted gifts perfect for sharing joy and spreading Christmas cheer whilst supporting local 🛍️

Looking for the perfect sweet treat and know a chocaholic well look no further than N2 Sweet Lab located on Kings Street in the Town Centre of Maidstone. All chocolates and sweet delights are hand made with care right here in Maidstone! 🍫

Looking for the perfect tiple? Discover Maidstone Distillery based in the heart of Maidstone enjoy a delightful selection of fantastic gins, liqueurs and hampers perfect for gifting! 🍸

Discover a range of locally crafted gifts in Creative Maidstone Artisan Shop featuring items from local creatives and makers. Discover their Affordable Art Exhibition with all artworks priced under £250 🎨

Enjoy a Christmas Market Trail 

Saturday 6th December 

Follow the Christmas Market Trail through various Town Centre locations! Wrap up warm, soak in the festive atmosphere, indulge in tasty seasonal treats, and explore unique handmade gifts.

Christmas markets will be located in the following locations: 

🎄Maidstone Christmas Market at Jubilee Square, 11am till 7pm 

🎄Christmas Artisan Market at Royal Star Arcade, 10am till 3pm 

🎄Christmas Craft Market at Maidstone Museum, 10am till 3pm 

Discover a Place to Escape

With Christmas shopping in full swing step into history and out of the bustling streets into Maidstone Museum this winter. A quiet place to get lost in history and embark on a journey through time. 

The museum is open Wednesday to Saturday every week until the 20th December when it will close for winter until early February. 

Winter Break Offers

This winter, relax, recharge, and discover the beauty of the Garden of England at Mercure Great Danes Hotel just a short stroll from the historic Leeds Castle.

From just £139 per couple, you can enjoy a two night stay with breakfast both mornings PLUS dinner, from their Set Menu on one night.

Visit Leeds Castle, go walking or cycling in the beautiful Kent countryside or just relax in the health club and pamper yourself on a spa day, with complimentary use of the Feel Good Health Club during your stay.

Christmas Events

Dick Whittington and His Cat Pantomime, Hazlitt Theatre

29th November till 31st December

Follow our plucky hero, Dick, as he journeys to London in search of fame, fortune, and his destiny, with help from his trusty cat, a magical fairy, and some truly hilarious mischief along the way. 

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer Drone Light Show

Saturday 6th December

The stars will come alive with the heart-warming tale of the world's most famous reindeer, told through cinematic sound and light with a mesmerising swarm of drones

Experience Christmas at Kent Life

29th November till 24th December

A festive extravaganza awaits you at our Christmas Experience! Get ready embark on a magical journey.

Award Winning Businesses in Maidstone

Beautiful South Awards 

The Beautiful South Awards celebrate excellence in the tourism and hospitality sector across the South of England. This year’s finalists have been recognised for their outstanding contributions:

Go Ape Leeds Castle has been shortlisted for Active and Learning Experience of the Year. In the same category, Kent Wildlife Trust received a commendation for its Bison Ranger Experience.

Kits Coty Glamping, based in Aylesford, is a finalist for Glamping Business of the Year.

Stable Oak Cottages, located in Maidstone, has earned a place in the finals for Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year.

Congratulations to all the nominees! The award ceremony will be held in early December, and we’re excited to celebrate the results with you in our next newsletter. 

Visit England Visitor Attraction Accolade 2024 - 2025 

The Visit England Visitor Attraction Accolade awards recongise all aspects of what makes an outstanding visitor experience. The accolades were awarded based on scores that attractions obtained following their annual Visit England Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessment.  Award winners in the South of which two attractions who are based in the borough of Maidstone include: 

Balfour Winery located in Staplehurst was recognised for Quality Food & Drink 

Wildshark Vineyard located in Harrietsham recongised for being a Hidden Gem 

Congratulations to both vineyards on receiving well deserved recognition for excellence! 

2026 Events You Don't Want To Miss!

Maidstone Light Up Festival

Fri 6th February

Heart of Kent Walking Festival 2026

20th - 29th March

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