Beautiful in the evening light
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All Saints Church Maidstone

4.4
·128 reviews·, United Kingdom

A magnificent 14th-century Perpendicular Gothic church in Maidstone, boasting stunning architecture, historical connections, and scenic riverside view...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Beautiful in the evening light

All Saints Church Maidstone

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent 14th-century Perpendicular Gothic church in Maidstone, boasting stunning architecture, historical connections, and scenic riverside views.

4.4
(128 reviews)

"Simply wow. This is a great place to explore and find something wonderful everywhere."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the History

Don't miss the unique memorial to George Washington's uncle! :camerawithflash:

☕ Coffee & Cake on Saturdays

Enjoy a community cafe experience on Saturday mornings. :coffee:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Perpendicular Gothic Architecture

Perpendicular Gothic Architecture

Main Nave

Marvel at the soaring ceilings, ornate screens, and striking wall paintings of this 14th-century masterpiece.

George Washington's Uncle's Memorial

George Washington's Uncle's Memorial

South Door Area

Discover the unique memorial to Lawrence Washington, 4x great-uncle of the first US President, featuring stars and stripes.

River Medway Views

River Medway Views

Church Exterior (North Side)

Enjoy breathtaking romantic views of the River Medway and Maidstone from the church's elevated position.

Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Throughout the Church

Admire the beauty and intricate craftsmanship of the numerous stained glass windows that illuminate the interior.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

To truly soak in the history and architecture of All Saints Church Maidstone, aim for weekdays outside of peak tourist hours. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details without the hustle and bustle. Consider checking for local events or services beforehand to plan accordingly.

Exploring the Grounds and Beyond

Beyond the church itself, the surrounding grounds and nearby River Medway offer picturesque walks with stunning views of Maidstone. Don't miss the historic cemetery, which adds another layer to the site's rich past. Combining your visit with nearby attractions like the Archbishop's Palace can make for a full day of exploration.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, good light
Crowd
Medium
When
Saturday mornings
Why
Community cafe open
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Join us tomorrow, at 6pm, for our annual KepaxHaven All Saints Day Party! We will have food, games, music, costume contest, & more! Make sure to bring all your friends & come in your best costumes! 😁🎃🥳 Before Samer finds you & forces you… 😬 #catholic #chaldean #michigan #Jesus #Jesuslovesyou #God #christiantiktok
@kepaxhavenhm
30.1K likes • 437.4K views

📸 Capture the History

Don't miss the unique memorial to George Washington's uncle! :camerawithflash: Instagram

☕ Coffee & Cake on Saturdays

Enjoy a community cafe experience on Saturday mornings. :coffee: Instagram

Is there a more beautiful church in London? Well, London has such a variety of historic churches so I’m sure you aren’t all going agree with me. But personally, I find All Saints on Margaret Street to be the most beautiful church in London. This was my third time visiting and I think it gets better with each visit, as you notice more and more beautiful details each time. The High Victorian Gothi...
@greatbritisharchitecture
6.4K likes • 68.5K views
ഈ church കാണുമ്പോ ക്യാമറക്കുവരെ goosebumps…😳😶‍🌫️⚰️….#allsaintschurchmaidstone . . #ukmalayali #ukmallu #exploreuk🇬🇧 #malluuk #ukmalayali #travel #uktravel #explorepage✨ #ukmallu🇬🇧 #ukmalayalis #ukmalayalees #kentlife #maidstone #explorekent #ukmallugram❤️
dr.seethujustin
124 likes • 1.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the River Walks

The walks around the church offer breathtaking views of the River Medway. :walking: Reddit

✨ Admire the Architecture

The 14th-century Gothic architecture and stained glass are truly magnificent. :sparkles: Instagram

LEIGH & JESSE 🖤🤍 SNEAK PEAKS At the beautiful All Saints Church Maidstone The Stunning bride: @xleighmartinx Photography: @anniesphotography_x Hair for the bride @charleyfinchhairstylist Hair for the bridesmaids: @lizasweddinghair Makeup: @stephanieemma.makeupartist Dress @dandolondon from @confettiandlacebridal #whitewedding #weddingdress #churchwedding #videographer #kentvideographer
luxe_videography
183 likes • 4.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the History

Don't miss the unique memorial to George Washington's uncle! :camerawithflash: Instagram

☕ Coffee & Cake on Saturdays

Enjoy a community cafe experience on Saturday mornings. :coffee: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the River Walks

The walks around the church offer breathtaking views of the River Medway. :walking: Reddit

✨ Admire the Architecture

The 14th-century Gothic architecture and stained glass are truly magnificent. :sparkles: Instagram

🌙 Night Photography

The church looks stunning illuminated at night. :moon: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(128 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise All Saints Church Maidstone for its stunning Perpendicular Gothic architecture, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere. The unique memorial to George Washington's ancestor and the beautiful riverside location are frequently highlighted as memorable features. While generally free to enter, some visitors note that certain decorative elements were awaiting restoration.

"Simply wow. I go to many older churches, I find the peace within relaxing. My church is modern and I also find peace there. But older churches, have that sense of history. This is a great place to explore and find something wonderful everywhere. Look carefully and you will find the stars and stripes on George Washingtons uncles memorial."

Andy Hoare

"One of the most beautiful churches that I saw in Kent. Inside is beautiful and full of history. Part of the church faces the river... the walks around there is breath taken... the views from the top of the church to Maidstone Medway are Romantic...the graveyard and grounds are beautiful... the architecture is a classic British .. the church was builded in rag- stone material. The bell tower is lovely with a nice clock."

Ljubica Banic

"Very impressive historic church situated above the River Medway.
The current building dates back to 1395 and is constructed from Kentish Ragstone. Extensive restoration took place at the end of the 19th century. The ceilings, ornate screens and striking wall paintings in the chancel date from this period, and were awaiting restoration at the time of my visit.
Along with the striking stained glass windows and imposing Gothic architecture, these features set the church apart and make it well worth a visit if you're in the Maidstone area."

Andrew Thomas

What People Like

Impressive Gothic architecture
Rich historical significance
Peaceful and relaxing atmosphere

What People Dislike

Some areas awaiting restoration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

All Saints Church Maidstone is easily accessible from London. You can take a train from London Bridge station to Maidstone, which takes about an hour. From Maidstone town center, the church is a short walk, situated near the River Medway. Instagram

While direct parking at the church might be limited, there are several public car parks available in Maidstone town center, which is a short walk away. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and fees before your visit.

Yes, public transport is a convenient way to reach the church. Regular train services connect to Maidstone, and local buses also serve the town center. The church is then within walking distance. Instagram

From Maidstone town center, All Saints Church is a pleasant walk, typically around 10-15 minutes. It's well-signposted and located near the River Medway, making it easy to find. Reddit

Consider combining your visit with exploring other Maidstone attractions like the Archbishop's Palace or the Medieval bridge, as they are all within walking distance of each other. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to All Saints Church Maidstone is generally free, though donations are welcome to help with its upkeep. Special events or services might have separate ticketing requirements. Reddit

The church is typically open to visitors during daylight hours, but it's always best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date opening times, especially around holidays or special services. Instagram

There is no mandatory admission fee for All Saints Church Maidstone. Visitors are encouraged to make a donation if they wish, to support the preservation of this historic site. Reddit

Yes, All Saints Church Maidstone hosts various events throughout the year, including Christmas carols and flower festivals. Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming events. InstagramReddit

While generally open, access may be restricted during services, weddings, or other private events. It's advisable to check the church's schedule or call ahead if you are planning a visit for a specific purpose. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find stunning Perpendicular Gothic architecture, ornate ceilings, striking wall paintings, beautiful stained glass windows, and the historic memorial to Lawrence Washington. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The church's architecture, stained glass, and the surrounding grounds offer numerous photographic opportunities. Night photography can also be particularly striking. InstagramReddit

Information on guided tours may vary. It's recommended to check the church's official website or inquire upon arrival. Local historical societies might also offer tours of the area. Reddit

The current building dates back to 1395 and is a significant example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture. It holds historical connections, notably the memorial to George Washington's ancestor. InstagramReddit

Yes, the graveyard and grounds are beautiful and offer a sense of history. It's a peaceful place to wander and reflect. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Maidstone town center offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. For a unique experience, the church itself hosts a community cafe on Saturday mornings. Instagram

During Saturday mornings, you can enjoy coffee and cake at the community cafe located within the church premises. Instagram

Maidstone has a diverse culinary scene, ranging from traditional British pubs to international cuisine. You'll find options to suit various tastes and budgets. Instagram

The areas around the River Medway offer pleasant spots for picnics, providing scenic views while you dine. Reddit

Exploring the town center will reveal many local eateries. For a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you'll find plenty of choices within walking distance of the church. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The interior with its Gothic architecture and stained glass is stunning. The exterior views of the church, especially with the River Medway in the background, are also highly photogenic. Don't forget the unique memorial. InstagramReddit

Photography is generally permitted inside the church for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services. Instagram

Try capturing the light filtering through the stained glass windows for dramatic effect. The intricate details of the architecture and the historical memorials are also great subjects. Instagram+1

If a wedding is taking place, it's important to be respectful of the couple's privacy and avoid intrusive photography. Always ask for permission if you wish to photograph wedding guests. Instagram

The church is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a fantastic subject for night photography. The reflections on the River Medway can add an extra layer of beauty. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

All Saints Church Maidstone can be an engaging visit for families, offering a glimpse into history and impressive architecture. The unique memorial to George Washington's ancestor with its stars and stripes can be a fun point of discovery for children. Instagram The church's grand scale and stained glass windows are often captivating for younger visitors. Instagram

On Saturdays, the community cafe offers a relaxed environment for a break with coffee and cake, which can be a welcome treat for families. Instagram Encourage kids to look for interesting details within the church and the surrounding graveyard. The nearby river walks also provide space for children to move around and enjoy the scenery. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those with a keen interest in history and architecture, All Saints Church Maidstone is a must-visit. Its Perpendicular Gothic style is a significant example of medieval English architecture, with features like ornate screens and extensive wall paintings. InstagramReddit The 14th-century construction and the detailed restoration work offer a rich subject for study and appreciation. Reddit

The Lawrence Washington memorial provides a direct link to early American history, a fascinating detail for those interested in the broader historical context. Exploring the historic cemetery and the surrounding medieval structures like the Archbishop's Palace further enriches the historical experience. InstagramReddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find All Saints Church Maidstone a rewarding location. The interior's dramatic lighting through stained glass windows, combined with the intricate Gothic architecture, offers endless creative possibilities. Instagram+1 The exterior views, especially those incorporating the River Medway, provide stunning backdrops. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity for night photography, as the illuminated church can be quite spectacular. Instagram The unique memorial and the details within the graveyard also present compelling subjects for close-up shots. Remember to be mindful of any services or events that might be taking place. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel: Perpendicular Gothic

All Saints Church Maidstone is a prime example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture, a style that flourished in England during the late 14th and 15th centuries. This style is characterized by its emphasis on vertical lines, large windows, and intricate tracery. The church's soaring ceilings, expansive stained glass, and ornate screens are testaments to this architectural period. The extensive restoration at the end of the 19th century, which included the ceilings, ornate screens, and wall paintings in the chancel, further enhanced these features, though some were awaiting restoration at the time of certain visits. InstagramReddit

The use of Kentish Ragstone as the primary building material gives the church a distinct, robust appearance. This local stone, combined with the architectural design, creates a sense of grandeur and historical weight. The bell tower, with its lovely clock, is another notable feature that contributes to the church's impressive silhouette against the Maidstone skyline. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the sense of history that permeates the church, a feeling amplified by its age and architectural significance. The combination of original medieval features and later restorations creates a layered historical narrative that is fascinating to explore. Reddit

A Touch of American History

All Saints Church Maidstone holds a unique connection to American history through the Memorial to Lawrence Washington. Lawrence Washington was the 4x great-uncle of George Washington, the first President of the United States. This memorial is considered one of the most famous within the church and is notable for featuring the stars and stripes, a symbol that would later become the American flag. InstagramReddit

This historical link draws visitors interested in genealogy and early American history. It's a poignant reminder of the transatlantic connections that existed centuries ago and how historical figures' ancestors are commemorated in places far from their eventual fame. The presence of this memorial adds a unique dimension to the church's already rich historical tapestry. Reddit

Discovering this detail often surprises visitors and adds an unexpected layer of interest to their exploration of the church. It's a small but significant piece of history that resonates with many who visit. Reddit

The River Medway and Surrounding Beauty

The location of All Saints Church Maidstone, perched above the River Medway, offers more than just a picturesque setting; it provides breathtaking views and opportunities for leisurely exploration. The walks around the church along the riverbanks are frequently described as 'breath-taking' and 'romantic,' offering a tranquil escape and a different perspective of the town. Reddit

These riverside paths allow visitors to appreciate the church from various angles and to enjoy the natural beauty of the Kent countryside, often referred to as the 'Garden of England.' The medieval bridge nearby also adds to the historical charm of the area, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing afternoon. InstagramReddit

Combining a visit to the church with a walk along the River Medway is a highly recommended experience, offering a blend of history, architecture, and natural scenery that enhances the overall visit. Reddit