Local Produce

Maidstone lies in the heart of one of the most important food producing regions in the country. There is a great variety of local produce and markets in Maidstone providing some of the finest food and drink. You can find excellent local goods in farm shops, specialist retailers, village shops and markets in Maidstone.  

Grown in the Garden Of England

Of course local produce is used in many of the gastro pubs and stylish restaurants so you can enjoy tempting mouth-watering menus in an array of eateries. You can enjoy a wide range of local produce from soft fruits to cheeses and chutneys, ice cream and chocolate, to fruit juices, wines and ciders.

There are regular farmers' markets in many of the surrounding villages. These are ideal if you are staying in a holiday cottage and wish to cater for yourselves. There are also plenty of farm shops that you will come across as you travel around the country roads. Maidstone Market is a general market that also has local produce stalls and takes place twice a week at Lockmeadow in the town centre.

Grapes & Hops

Around Maidstone there are some of the finest vineyards and wineries in the country. Kent is famous for its hops and its long history of hop-picking and beer-making. You can sample the famous Spitfire ale produced by Shepherd Neame in the pubs and restaurants, but look out for more unusual ales produced by many micro breweries. 

Take home a taste of Kent

You are sure to enjoy the Kentish food and drink and, like many before you, will find it too good to leave. Local produce is ideal for gifts or just to take with you and savour once you get home. The search facility on the right will help you find specific places to eat or buy local produce. Produced in Kent will help you find out about Kentish products and producers and discover where and when to buy locally.

Local Farm Shops

Our local farm shops are well spread out around Maidstone but are a glorious find.  Try Farmers Farm Shop at Teston, which also includes the fabulous Teston Bakery.  Haven Farm Shop at Sutton Valence also includes the local post office.  If you are in the Marden area then you cannot miss Marden Farm Shop, which is on the historic market site in the middle of the village.  If you are in the Biddenden direction then head for Biddenden Vineyards as they a good farm shop full of preserves and local meats.  Be sure not to leave without a bottle of their wonderful Red Love apple juice.

Stay for a break or holiday

As well as great local produce and markets, Maidstone has a great selection of accommodation from hotels to self-catering cottages, so there is sure to be something for you. To find the right place to stay for you, use the accommodation and the food and drink search facility on the right of this page or use the links below: