The Old Kent Market

Description

Stepping into The Old Kent Market feels like discovering a hidden treasure in the heart of Kent. This charming indoor marketplace has completely transformed what was once an old cinema into a buzzing hub of local commerce and community spirit. I’ve spent countless afternoons exploring its maze of stalls, and let me tell you – it’s not your average market!

The building’s art deco facade catches your eye right away, and inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of independent traders doing their thing. From freshly baked sourdough that’ll make your mouth water (trust me, I can never resist!) to artisanal cheeses and locally crafted gifts, there’s an authentic feel you just don’t get at regular shopping centers.

What really sets this place apart is how the original cinema’s character shines through – they’ve kept loads of the original features, which gives it this really cool retro vibe. And the food court? Well, that’s where the magic happens. You’ve got everything from proper British grub to international street food that’ll transport your taste buds around the world.

Key Features

• Food court featuring diverse local and international cuisine
• Artisanal bakery producing fresh bread and pastries daily
• Local produce stands with seasonal fruits and vegetables
• Craft stalls showcasing Kent-made products and gifts
• Original art deco architectural elements
• Communal dining space with restored cinema seats
• Regular events and pop-up vendor appearances
• Wheelchair-accessible facilities throughout

Best Time to Visit

Look, I’ll let you in on a little secret – mid-morning on weekdays is when this place really shines. You’ll catch all the fresh stuff coming in, and the crowds haven’t picked up yet. But if you’re like me and love a bit of atmosphere, weekends between 11am and 2pm have this amazing buzz about them.

Summer months bring extra special vibes with seasonal produce and outdoor seating areas, but don’t write off winter visits! That’s when the market transforms into this cozy haven, and the smell of fresh-baked goods and hot food is just incredible. Plus, you’ll find some amazing local preserves and crafts that make perfect gifts.

How to Get There

Getting to The Old Kent Market couldn’t be easier – and that’s coming from someone who’s terrible with directions! If you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking nearby (tho the spaces right out front fill up quick, so get there early). Taking public transport? The local bus stops practically at the door, and it’s just a short walk from the train station.

Ya know what’s really handy? There’s a bike rack right outside if you’re cycling – I actually prefer this option on sunny days cause you can avoid the parking hassle altogether. And if you’re staying nearby, it’s totally walkable from most parts of town.

Tips for Visiting

Alright, here’s the inside scoop from someone who’s probably spent way too much time here! Bring cash – while most vendors take cards now, some of the smaller stalls prefer old-school payment methods. And those are often the ones with the best hidden gems!

Try to avoid the lunch rush if you can – between 12:30 and 2pm it gets pretty packed. But if you do end up there during peak times, grab a number from the popular food stalls first, then browse while you wait. The bakery usually sells out of their best stuff by early afternoon, so hit that up early if you want the good stuff (their cinnamon rolls are to die for!).

Oh, and bring your own shopping bag! Not only is it better for the environment, but you’ll probably end up buying more than you planned – the place just has that effect on you. And don’t be shy about chatting with the vendors – they’re super friendly and often have great recommendations or might even throw in a little extra something if you show genuine interest.

During special events or holidays, the market gets extra festive with decorations and seasonal treats. If you’re planning a visit around these times, check their social media for updates on special trading hours and events. Sometimes they have live music or cooking demonstrations that really add to the experience.

Location

Places to Stay Near The Old Kent Market

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