August 2025

A sunny evening voyage along the River Medway is a lovely way to see Maidstone and nearby attractions from a different angle.

More than 40 members of Maidstone Museums’ Foundation and guests enjoyed a relaxing cruise on Thursday August 14, 2025, savouring the scenery, buffet and drinks from the bar. Although recent dry conditions ruled out a full trip to Teston Bridge, the Kentish Lady team adjusted the itinerary to give us the chance to go downstream as far as Allington Castle and the Malta Inn before returning upstream to just beyond the lock at East Farleigh. As the lock gate adjusted the river level and allowed the vessel to press on, there was entertainment from a lively dog who has come to expect tasty titbits from passengers. They duly obliged. He wanted more of course but it was time to move on. 

The Kentish Lady shared the tranquil Medway with swans, cygnets and even a kingfisher spotted by observant passengers. As darkness fell, a peaceful and happy event ended when the Kentish Lady came to rest alongside the Archbishop’s Palace.

Many thanks to MMF trustee Ivan White for organising the trip.