Maidstone has undergone some huge changes in its architecture in recent years. Here we take a look at how the town’s buildings have changed throughout history.
Medieval Architecture
The mediaeval stone bridge, adjacent to the Archbishop’s Palace, is a brilliant example of the remaining 14th-century architecture in Maidstone. Over the centuries, the bridge has been altered, extended and improved but still retains its mediaeval route.
If you’re looking for examples of Tudor buildings, Ye Olde Thirsty Pig public house was built around 1430 and is believed to have been a part of the nearby Archbishop’s Palace estate. It is one of the oldest remaining buildings in Maidstone.
Georgian Buildings
During the 18th century, there was a huge building boom in the town and its surrounding areas. Many examples of Georgian buildings remain to this day. The town hall was originally built in 1763 and used as the magistrate courts. The building features a finely decorated council chamber and several examples of graffiti from prisoners in the old prison cells below who were waiting for deportation.
Victorian Maidstone
Victorian architecture flourished during Queen Victoria’s reign (1837-1901) and is characterised by its revival of various historical styles and elaborate ornamentation. There are many examples of Victorian buildings and houses throughout the town. The Hazlitt Theatre, on Earl Street, was originally commissioned in 1835 as a corn exchange. A second addition was later added with a concert hall, built in the neoclassical architecture style, which was eventually repurposed as the theatre we know today.
By the 1870s, Maidstone Bridge had been declared unsafe, inconveniently narrow, and too low for barges to pass easily beneath. The current Maidstone Bridge was built in 1877-79 to designs by Sir Joseph Bazalgette, the engineer who was also behind London’s sewage system.
The Victorian properties are highly sought after for their character, architectural details and often convenient locations in town. Many of the properties still retain original features like fireplaces, sash windows and intricate mouldings. If you are looking to move to the area and are in need of conveyancing solicitors Maidstone, consider a reputable firm such as https://www.samconveyancing.co.uk/Conveyancing-Solicitors/conveyancing-solicitors-maidstone.
Modern Day
During the post-war expansion, huge numbers of houses and buildings were built. The Maidstone East railway station was rebuilt in the 1960s after the original station was severely damaged during the war. In more recent years, Maidstone has seen the development of modern buildings, including shopping centres, office buildings and residential complexes.
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