Excursions & Events

During the summer there are normally at least 5 excursions on a half or full day basis to places of historical interest.

River Medway Cruise and Allington Castle 27 July 2021

This was the first outing, and indeed the first meeting of the Society since lockdown commenced in March 2020.  The trip consisted of a cruise along the River Medway from Maidstone aboard the ‘Kentish Lady’ with commentary, to Allington Castle, where we had an excellent 1½ hour tour of the Castle and gardens, led by one of the very knowledgeable and informative gardeners; (the boat trip is the only way to visit the castle).

Allington Castle is a 13th century castle, still intact and adapted over the centuries for living-in, and still lived-in and privately owned; once visited by King Henry VIII and two of his wives, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Parr.  Surrounded by a moat it has an impressive Great Hall, two of the oldest dovecotes in England, and 42 acres of beautiful gardens which include an Italianate Garden, parterre, lavender walk, formal ponds and two lakes.

We then cruised back to Maidstone with tea and cake on board, thankful we only experienced the one short shower, which came whilst we were on the boat, and having enjoyed a most interesting trip.

The Kentish Lady

Booking forms

Booking forms for trips can be found in the current newsletter.

Summer Coach Outings – Collection of Fares Etc

Coach fares and venue entry fees are payable on booking. Anyone who subsequently finds he/she cannot attend an outing for any reason will have entry money refunded, though still being liable for the coach fare as the Society will already have paid this to the coach company.

Reduced Fees

If paying a reduced fee please ensure you take your English Heritage or National Trust membership card or evidence of eligibility for reduced admission fees with you to show staff at the locations visited.