Although Maidstone town is a thriving and eclectic place to enjoy a lively atmosphere , great shops and ambient restaurants , it is also in the prime position for visitors to embrace the tranquillity and beauty of the Kent countryside in which it is nestled . Sitting in the heart of The Garden of England , Maidstone ’ s surrounding countryside is made up of lucious vineyards , enchanting fruit orchards and rolling green hillsides dotted with woodlands . Amongst this sprawling , picturesque scenery are rural villages that look much as they have done for centuries , epitomising the essence of Kentish charm and capturing the hearts and imagination of anyone who visits .
ADORE THE COUNTRYSIDE
The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty encompasses some of Maidstone and is the perfect escape to the country . These dramatic chalk hills are full of ancient beech woodlands and carpeted with grasslands , wildflowers and native orchids offering panoramic views over the Kentish Weald and its villages . This includes Hollingbourne , located on a sunny southward slope , which is renowned for its superb landscape full of ancient buildings and wonderful rural heritage . Springs trickle into brooks that feed into pretty mill streams and ponds , nurturing their lucious neighbouring meadowland and woods . The Windmill in the centre of the village is a wonderfully cosy pub offering delicious , wholesome food and a friendly atmosphere . Passionate about using the best seasonal Kentish ingredients sourced from local farmers , The Windmill has crafted a famously tempting menu that has become well known for both its heartiness and its sophistication .
At the foot of the North Downs sits the market village of Lenham . As
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