Archbishops' Palace and Heritage Centre, Maidstone

After a major restoration lasting for several years, the Archbishop's Palace in Maidstone was opened to the public in the summer of 1992.

One of the town's oldest buildings, it stands on the banks of the River Medway, next to All Saints Church. Dating back to the 14th century, the Palace was acquired by Maidstone Borough Council at the end of the 19th century. It will now offer excellent rooms for hire for all types of functions, a catering service, riverside views, and a program of events and entertainments.

Life in Maidstone - past to present times, has been brought to life by displays in a new Heritage Centre on the ground floor of the Palace, and in the 'secret garden' to the south of the palace and overlooked by All Saints Church, is a reconstructed herb or physic garden.

Opening hours are: 10.30 am to 5.30 pm (last admission 4.00 pm). Price: Heritage ticket (including Carriage museum). Adults £2.95. Children/OAPs £1.95. Family ticket £8. For further information, contact: The Visitor Services Manager, The Archbishop's Palace and Heritage Centre, Mill Street, Maidstone, Kent MElS 6YE. Tel: 0622 663006.