The name Maidstone is derived from the Saxon Maeidesstana, given as Meddestane in Domesday Book (1086), and is taken to mean “the maidens’ stone.” At the time of the Domesday survey, the settlement, noted for its salt production, eel fishing, and flour milling, belonged to the archbishop of Canterbury.
Why is Maidstone historically important?
Famous incidents in its history include the Wyatt Rebellion and Battle of Maidstone in the English Civil War (1648). By the 18th century, Maidstone was the official and legal centre of Kent. It was also a successful industrial town with major brewing and papermaking industries.
Why is Maidstone the capital of Kent?
Maidstone had become a thriving town, which had expanded so much in size and population, that it had overtaken Canterbury, which would have been its closest rival to the title. But it was only because of geography, geology and the Romans that Maidstone became the power hub, ideal for all these important functions.
Is the Maidstone real?
Maidstone is the largest town in Kent, England, of which it is the county town. Maidstone is historically important and lies 32 miles (51 km) east-south-east of London. The River Medway runs through the centre of the town, linking it with Rochester and the Thames Estuary.
Who founded Maidstone?
Maidstone began as a Saxon village. From the 10th century, it was owned by the Archbishop of Canterbury. At the time of the Domesday Book (1086), Maidstone was a large village with a population of perhaps 250.
Why is a helicopter over Maidstone?
A police helicopter was deployed in the search for a suspected stolen car last night. Patrols were sent to Maidstone at 6pm. An unattended vehicle was later found abandoned in Tonbridge Road.
Why is there a dinosaur in Maidstone?
The Maidstone Coat of Arms
Such was the importance of the fossil find, and so entwined in Maidstone’s history has the Iguanodon become, that in 1946 Maidstone Borough Council applied to have the dinosaur added to the Coat of Arms, and the request was approved by the Garter Principal King of Arms.
What is the prettiest village in Kent?
10 Most Picturesque Villages in Kent
- Aylesford.
- Chilham.
- Broadstairs.
- Wye.
- Maidstone.
- Chiddingstone.
- Elham.
- Penshurst.
Where do the rich live in Kent?
Tonbridge and Malling
The historic village of Penshurst is famous for its 14th Century stately home, Penshurst Place, which was once owned by Henry VIII. It is also home to one of England’s oldest cricket pitches – and, more recently, the priciest street in Tonbridge and Malling.
What is the oldest town in Kent?
Faversham
About. Discover Faversham, located in the heart of the Garden of England. The oldest market town in Kent and recorded in the Domesday Book, is bursting with history and located on a winding creek.
What is that smell in Maidstone?
A strong whiff of horse manure has been reported around the town centre, as well as in Barming and East Farleigh. It’s believed the smell may be the result of sewage being spread on fields outside the town. Residents took to Twitter in the hope of tracking down the cause of the stench.
Was Maidstone bombed in the war?
During the course of the war, about 240 bombs were dropped on Maidstone, killing 53 people (over 60,000 civilians killed nationwide).
Is Maidstone affluent?
Maidstone has a large and affluent catchment population of approximately 332,000 with 60% falling into the AB and C1 demographic brackets, against a national average of 53%.
What is the oldest building in Maidstone?
The Royal Albion pub for Shepherd Neame brewery is oldest building in Maidstone, Kent, England, UK, Britain.
Is Maidstone a nice place to live?
When living in Maidstone, residents can expect a choice of excellent properties, some top schools and an ideal location to travel to London. Maidstone’s position in the stunning county of Kent as well as its excellent transport links have really seen the town’s status increase.
Is Maidstone UK a nice place to live?
Picturesque, charming and historic, the county town of Kent is the home of families, retirees and commuters alike. Maidstone’s combination of rural riverside living and modern amenities makes it a desirable place to live in South West England, particularly for residents commuting to London.
When was the last hanging in Maidstone?
The last execution at Maidstone was on Tuesday, the 8th of April 1930 when 31 year old Sidney Fox was hanged by Robert Baxter for the murder of his mother, Rosaline, in October 1929.
Is Maidstone UK safe?
Crime and Safety in Maidstone. Maidstone is the second safest major town in Kent, and is the 39th most dangerous overall out of Kent’s 331 towns, villages, and cities. The overall crime rate in Maidstone in 2021 was 96 crimes per 1,000 people.
How deep is the river in Maidstone?
The usual range of the River Medway at Maidstone is between 0.23m and 0.75m.
Why is there elephants in Maidstone?
Colourful decorated elephants have marched into Maidstone to form an art trail as part of Elmer’s Big Heart of Kent Parade which was launched on Tuesday, June 22. Maidstone Borough Council is the proud Heritage Sponsor of two Elmer sculptures in the event to help raise funds for Heart of Kent Hospice.
Where is sinkhole in Maidstone?
The carriageway collapsed along the A26 Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, and is shut between Queens Road and Cherry Orchard Way.