Originating as a Saxon village, Maidstone has over subsequent centuries grown to become pivitol in the development of Kent . A large village by the time of the Domesday Book, ownership was granted to the Archbishop of Canterbury from the 10th Century, and this was to reflect on the growth of the town, with much of the architecture, notably the Archbishop’s Palace, reflecting this influence.

Maidstone’s location on the banks of the River Medway has historically given the town huge advantages over many other settlements in Kent. River trade has provided much of the wealth of the town. Initially a key location for the transport of fruit and vegetables to London by water, the deepening of the river, together with the addition of locks and towpaths during the 17th century enabled the carriage of iron, timber, corn and stone further into the heart of Kent, increasing further the towns financial prosperity. Other industries developing throughout the 18th and 19th centuries included papermaking and brewing, both benefiting from the river. The Medway remains popular today, primarily as a source for entertainment, with the annual Maidstone River Festival providing a spectacle of colour and excitement.

Maidstone remains one of the most important and influential towns of Kent. With a population of around 140,000, the town is a major centre for professional, financial and consultancy services, and is considered by many to be the business centre for Kent. One of the top five centres for shopping yields in the south east of England, and with more than one million square feet of retail space, the town is set to remain one of the most favoured addresses of the country.