Out and about around Maidstone

Need a bit of inspiration in your work? Maidstone benefits from being close to beautiful countryside and seaside towns as well as having great transport links to London and the continent.

Maidstone to London

As part of your course you are likely to travel to London to take advantage of the capital's diverse artistic resources.

• By train 50 minutes from Maidstone East to London Victoria

Visit National Rail Enquiries for train times.

Maidstone to Europe

Ebbsfleet International station is just 20 minutes away by car, making it easy to visit the continent.

• Ebbsfleet International to Paris takes 2 hours 5 minutes
• Ebbsfleet International to Brussels 1 hour 41 minutes
• Ebbsfleet International to Lille 1 hour 10 minutes.

Visit Eurostar for more information.

Chatham and Rochester

Historic Rochester is a beautiful town with a cathedral and castle at its heart. The UCA campus lends the town its creative edge and it's this mix of history and culture that gives the town its vibrant atmosphere. The cobbled streets and quirky shops top it off. Chatham is about 10 minutes' walk from Rochester. It is a busy town, home to the famous Tap 'n' Tin student gig venue which has hosted some big names including The Rumblestrips, The Libertines, The Charlatans and The Young Knives.

• By car 20 minute drive
• By train Every half hour from Maidstone West

Whitstable

With its pastel coloured beach huts, world famous oyster bars and opportunities for kite boarding, Whitstable has an unspoilt bohemian charm. Its streets are packed with craft shops, galleries, boutiques and delicatessens.

Herne Bay

Dip your toes in Herne Bay's waters for a blast of real retro English seaside magic. There's Punch 'n' Judy, fish and chips, candy floss, a bandstand, pleasure pier, a promenade and two miles of seafront. Water sport enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, rowing, yachting and jet skiing.

Cast your net wider

Further along the coast, you'll find the up-and-coming seaside towns of Folkestone and Margate – havens for artists of all kinds. These towns actively nurture new artistic talent with artist studios, shop space and art festivals.