An insight into the fascinating history of transport and is home to a unique collection of horse-drawn vehicles and transport curiosities. More than 60 vehicles are on display, ranging from grand carriages to antique sedan chairs and Victorian ‘growlers’. The wider collection includes models and toys, harness and saddlery, costume and accessories, tools, carriage lamps, whips, luggage, and musical instruments.
Contacts
Operator: Maidstone Museums
Address: Tithe Barn 16 Mill Street Maidstone Kent ME15 6XT
- Telephone: 01622 602 838
- Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
- Website: View website
Open Days & Times
11 Feb-Sep. Low season/term time Wed-Sat; Summer/school hols Mon-Sat. 1100-1600. Visit website for more details.
Travel
- By Rail: Maidstone / 0.5 miles
Facilities
- Part disabled access
Housed in the 14th century stables of the medieval Archbishop’s Palace complex used by the Archbishop of Canterbury when travelling through the county, the museum collection was the gift of Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake, 12-time Mayor of Maidstone. He began collecting carriages when he realised that the horse-drawn vehicles of his childhood were being forced off the road by the motor car. Thanks to his energy and enthusiasm, Maidstone Carriage Museum opened in 1946 and was the first of its kind in Britain and is still viewed as one of the finest in Europe.
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