You’ll never go hungry on a trip to Maidstone. The historic town’s quaint streets are awash with restaurants, pubs, bars, cafes, coffee shops and tea rooms – with everything from international chains to local independents. Lying in the heart of one of the most important food producing regions in the country its unsurprising that many of these popular eateries have a strong focus on quality and provenance, supporting local wherever possible and promoting eating with the seasons. If you can venture a little further there are some great restaurants near Maidstone too. From soft fruits to cheeses, chutneys, ice cream, chocolate and more – you’ll find local produce on practically every menu. The region is also becoming increasingly well known for its growth and production of many fruit juices, wines and ciders – many of which have been recognised and accredited as leading English manufacturers. Kent has a long history for its hops and beer making and now a number of breweries and microbreweries have opened their doors to allow visitors to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes. A monthly farmers market in Jubilee Square is a great way to experience a true taste of Kent and meet the makers behind the local produce but Maidstone also has a more general market twice a week in the town centre which is an equally great way to get to know the local community and sample a taste of its yields.