A day out in Kent with Stagecoach

At one end of the 10X route is marvellous Maidstone, where you can explore some amazing sites. There’s Maidstone Museum, offering a culturally educational day through its great exhibitions and events. Or, if you fancy something a bit more relaxing, you can catch a Kentish Lady River Boat tour, whether you fancy a 1-hour ride or a 3-hour leisurely lunch cruise, there’s something for everyone. Got a thrill seeker in the group? Head on over to The Climbing Experience, an 18000 square foot indoor bouldering and climbing wall, and get that heart pumping.

Hop off on Weavering Street and go back in time as you take a wander through Mote Park, a woodland still standing from the medieval times. Take one of the Heritage Open Day walks with the Park Ranger, where you can learn about the past and present of the park, or simply come along with friends and family and discover all that the area has to offer. The park also plays host to many festivals, from Revival (17^th Sep), Soultasia (24^th Sep) to Oktoberfest (1^st Oct), so whoever you are, Mote Park has got a day out for you.

We couldn’t tell you about a trip from Maidstone to Ashford and not include the amazing Leeds Castle. This is always a must visit on our lists so, lucky for you, this bus route stops off right outside! Not only is there the wonderful castle to explore, built in the 12^th century and lived in by the iconic, party-starting, Hollywood-mingling Lady Baillie in the 30s, there’s also a whole host of experiences for you and the family to enjoy. From adventure golf to an amazing maze, a birds of prey centre to seasonal events, there is always something going on at the castle!

For even more history, visit the wonderful town of Harrietsham, whose name can be found in the Domesday Book! Standing on the Pilgrim’s Way, this is a place through which many travellers have passed – so why not add yourself to the list!? Just a 20-minute walk from the Chippendayle Drive bus stop, you’ll find yourself standing on the iconic Pilgrim’s Way, where you can take in the beautiful countryside and monumental setting – plus, if you’re lucky, you might even see the Pilgrims Rest Statue! Take a moment to have a breather and absorb the astounding beauty of the area. On your way back, you’ll have to pop into family-owned Percival’s Rest for some amazing food and drink to replenish you on your long travels.

Next stop…Lenham! If you hop off at Glebe Gardens, you’ll find yourself just minutes from the source of the Great Stour, the second longest river in Kent. Experience some amazing views as you wander the area and head up towards The Chalk Cross, a 188ft tall cross carved into the hillside that pays tribute to those who died during the First and Second World Wars. After you’ve taken in this monumental sight, why not wander down to the quaint village of Lenham, where you can grab a bite to eat at the Square Fish Café? This is the perfect place to unwind after some exciting sight-seeing in this beautifully historic town.

There’s nothing better than a refreshing walk through nature, and Hothfield Heathlands Nature Reserve is the perfect place to get your outdoors fix. Get off the bus at School Road and head up to this breath-taking landscape. Rich in flora and fauna, you can explore any one of the 4 waymarked routes, soaking in all that the heathlands has to offer. From beetles on the floor to birds in the skies, you’ll have plenty to see while you’re there. Make the day out to the Heathfields special and bring along the whole family, even the four-legged members of the group!

At the other end of your route is the amazing Ashford, with plenty to explore and see. Just a 20-minute walk from the final stop is the Designer Outlet, where you can find great deals on designer brands for up to 60% off. There’s plenty of food and drink both in the Outlet and in the surrounding area for you to nourish yourself after a day of exploration, enjoyment, and entertainment. So, what are you waiting for - head on out now and see all that Stagecoach has to offer you, family, and friends.

To promote a sense of community within older generations, Inspired Friendships, Stagecoach South East, and Arriva are working with Inspired Villages to create the Friendship Bus. Combatting loneliness, the bus is a monthly club that acknowledges the need for and supports the growth of communication, public transport, and wellbeing within the elderly community. Members of the group will benefit from days out together, from the Cat Café in Tonbridge to the Isle of Sheppey for a leisurely stroll. So, if you’re looking to make friends and memories in a sustainable, healthy, and stress-free way, look no further than Stagecoach’s Friendship Bus!