Things To Do
in Aylesford
Aylesford is a tranquil village in Kent set on the River Medway, where history and countryside meet. Its standout landmark is the historic Aylesford Priory, offering a window into medieval life amid peaceful gardens and riverside paths. The surrounding countryside blends farmland, woodland, and easy access to the North Downs, making it a convenient base for day trips to Maidstone and Canterbury.
The area is known for welcoming inns, cozy tea rooms, and convenient rail and road links to London and the coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Aylesford Priory, a tranquil place that combines history with stunning gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful architecture of the ancient priory. Don’t forget to stop by the café for a traditional English breakfast before heading out for the day.
In the afternoon, walk along the banks of the River Medway and discover the charming village center full of quaint shops and local artisans. Explore the historic streets and perhaps pop into the local museum to learn more about Aylesford's rich heritage. After some shopping, enjoy lunch at one of the local pubs, sampling classic British fare.
As dusk falls, relish a riverside dinner at one of Aylesford's renowned restaurants, where you can indulge in the finest local dishes. The ambiance is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration, complete with views of the tranquil water. Cap off the evening with a leisurely walk by the river to admire the sunset.
Begin your morning by visiting the stunning St. Peter and St. Paul Church, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Spend time reflecting in this historic church where you can appreciate the local craftsmanship and heritage. Afterwards, take a moment to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee at a nearby café.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in local culture by participating in a craft workshop or visiting a local gallery featuring artists from Aylesford. This is an excellent opportunity to engage with the creative community and perhaps take home a unique souvenir. Don't miss a leisurely lunch at a bistro that showcases local ingredients and flavors.
As the night approaches, discover the local dining scene further by trying out a themed restaurant that highlights cuisine from around the world. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for mingling with locals and other visitors. End your day with an evening stroll through the quaint streets, taking in the lights and sounds of Aylesford at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three course meal mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🛏️1 bedroom apartment (city center) monthly | $1,000-1,400 |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to the countryside with easy access to the North Downs
- Calm village atmosphere with historic sights
- Good rail and road links to London and Canterbury
- Quaint pubs and tea rooms with locally sourced food
- Limited nightlife within Aylesford itself
- Smaller scale than larger towns for shopping and entertainment
- Public transport can be thinner on Sundays or late at night
Places to Visit in Aylesford
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval ruins set in quiet gardens along the Medway, ideal for atmospheric photos and sunrise light.
Old stone bridges and calm river scenes perfect for reflections and wide landscape shots.
Dense woodlands with trails and seasonal light filtering through trees, great for nature photography.
Waterways, locks, and boat activity offer dynamic urban-river photography close to villages.
Food in Aylesford
Aylesford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hearty pie with tender local beef, root vegetables, and rich ale gravy, best enjoyed in a traditional village pub.
Must-Try!
Crispy battered fish with thick chips and tartare or mushy peas, a staple you will find at pubs along the Medway.
Classic British tea service with fresh scones, clotted cream, jam, and good tea or coffee in a cozy café.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and occasional street food stalls on market days.
Seasonal markets featuring local meats, fruit, vegetables, honey, and homemade goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in orderly queues, greet staff with a hello, and say please and thank you. Do not interrupt conversations in progress.
Safety
Tipping in Aylesford
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United Kingdom, service charges are not always included. A tip of 5-10 percent is common if service is not included, otherwise rounding up is acceptable. In pubs and casual eateries, tipping is optional and at your discretion.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, mild evenings, and plenty of outdoor dining. Pack sunscreen and light layers for evening strolls near the river.
Golden foliage and cooler days. Great for woodland walks and harvest markets; bring a light jacket for late afternoons.
Shorter days with potential frost. Cozy pubs and tea rooms provide warmth; expect more drizzles and mist along the river.
Blossoms and new growth in woodlands and gardens. Ideal for river walks and outdoor café seating.
Aylesford at Night
Hiking in Aylesford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Stretch of scenic riverside trails with wildlife and village views.
Wooded hills with viewpoints and diverse flora and fauna.
Historic ridge-top path offering expansive countryside panoramas.
Pastoral grounds and island trails with manageable loops for all levels.
Airports
How to reach Aylesford by plane.
Closest major airport with good connections to London and Europe; access by rail via London or car routes.
Large international hub with many carrier options; typically reachable by rail or car from Aylesford within about an hour plus.
Major international hub with broad flight options; transfer times can be longer by road or rail.
Alternative international gateway with regional connections; requires longer transfer from Kent.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in the area with good schooling options and safe outdoor spaces.
A sizable portion commute to London or Maidstone for work, using rail or car routes.
Young and older retirees appreciate the quiet countryside and accessible amenities.
A mix of locals and expatriates attracted by proximity to London and the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and community leagues are common in Maidstone and surrounding towns.
Cricket grounds and clubs are popular in the county during summer.
Rugby is played at local clubs and participates in regional leagues.
Public courts and club facilities are available for year-round play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aylesford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for pub menus labeled vegetarian options, ask for veggie pies or pastas, and request milk substitutes for tea or coffee.