Maidstone Museum

Discover 660,000 Treasures in Kent’s Most Beautiful Museum Setting

Maidstone Museum stands as one of Kent’s finest cultural treasures, housed within the stunning Chillington Manor, a magnificent Elizabethan manor house dating back to 1562. This exceptional regional museum offers free admission to over 660,000 artefacts and specimens, making it one of the most significant collections in the South East outside London.

World-Class Collections

• Ancient Egypt collection featuring Ta-Kush, Kent’s only adult mummy dating back 2,700 years
• Outstanding Japanese art collection with over 3,000 artefacts including Hokusai’s famous ‘Great Wave off Kanagawa’
• Internationally significant ethnography and decorative arts
• Extensive archaeology collection showcasing Kent’s rich heritage
• Natural history specimens and interactive displays
• Fine costume collection spanning centuries of fashion

Historic Setting and Architecture

The museum’s home in Chillington Manor provides a breathtaking backdrop for the collections. This Grade II* listed Elizabethan mansion, established in 1858 as the Charles Museum, seamlessly blends historic charm with modern facilities including a purpose-built extension opened in 2012.

Specialist Museums Within

Maidstone Museum houses several renowned collections including the Bentlif Art Gallery with its extensive collection of watercolour and oil paintings, and the Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regimental Museum, proudly documenting the famous local regiment’s exploits and campaigns throughout British Army history.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Interactive galleries designed to engage visitors of all ages
• Regular storytelling sessions and children’s holiday activities
• Educational workshops including life drawing and craft sessions
• SEND family crafts and accessibility programmes
• Seasonal exhibitions and special events throughout the year
• African drumming sessions and cultural celebrations

The Maidstone Carriage Museum

Don’t miss the iconic Maidstone Carriage Museum, home to more than 60 magnificent horse-drawn vehicles housed in the former stables of the Archbishop’s Palace. This unique collection includes Queen Victoria’s State Landau, antique sedan chairs, and Victorian ‘growlers’, gifted by Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake.

Complete Maidstone Cultural Experience

Enhance your museum visit by exploring Maidstone’s rich cultural landscape. The nearby Hazlitt Theatre offers world-class performances in the heart of the county town, while Archbishop’s Palace provides stunning medieval architecture and gardens.

Discover the beautiful Mote Park for peaceful walks and outdoor activities, or visit Kent Life to experience traditional countryside heritage. The magnificent Leeds Castle is just a short drive away, offering one of England’s most romantic castle experiences.

For dining, Maidstone’s vibrant town centre features excellent restaurants and cafés within walking distance of the museum. Consider exploring the historic Maidstone Market for local produce and crafts, or take a leisurely stroll along the River Medway to appreciate the town’s riverside charm.

Modern Facilities and Accessibility

The museum offers excellent accessibility with lift access to all floors, though some galleries may require the smaller external glass lift depending on mobility equipment size. Free admission makes this cultural gem accessible to all, with convenient parking and modern amenities throughout.

Research and Educational Excellence

As an established centre of learning since 1858, Maidstone Museum continues to serve as an important research facility. The museum’s extensive archives and specialist collections attract scholars and enthusiasts from around the world, while its educational programmes inspire the next generation of heritage enthusiasts.

Price Range: £ (Free admission)

Tags: Maidstone Museum, free museum, Elizabethan manor, Egyptian mummy, Japanese art, local history, family friendly, Kent heritage, Chillington Manor, Hokusai, regimental museum, carriage museum

Opening Hours: Term Time: Wednesday-Saturday 10am-4pm (last entry 3:30pm) School Holidays: Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm (last entry 3:30pm)
Closed: Sundays, Bank Holidays, mid-December to February