- Must visit
Maidstone Museum
Maidstone’s main museum in an Elizabethan manor. Strong collections cover fine art, archaeology, local history, and international objects.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Dartford to Maidstone
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dartford to Maidstone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from kr72. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of kr72, and a train costs an average of kr72.
Distance: 17 miles (28 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr181 Average price Cheapest | kr85 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
1h 19m Average total duration Fastest 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Dartford to Maidstone is a train with an average price of kr181.
The fastest way to travel from Dartford to Maidstone is by train with an average journey time of 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Dartford and Maidstone including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dartford to Maidstone among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around kr181 compared to roughly kr85 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about kr-95.13. The journey takes 49m versus 37m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Dartford to Maidstone train times
The table below shows live departures for Dartford to Maidstone trains for today, Thursday, August 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 C10100+ P89389 | On time 8:00 AM Dartford station (DFD) | 0h56 | 8:56 AM Maidstone Barracks (MDB) | 1 transfer | |
| C10102+P89399 | On time 8:30 AM Dartford station (DFD) | 0h56 | 9:26 AM Maidstone Barracks (MDB) | 1 transfer | |
| P89688 · P85322 · P89407 | On time 8:56 AM Dartford station (DFD) | 1h01 | 9:57 AM Maidstone Barracks (MDB) | 2 transfers | |
| C10033+P89417 | On time 9:30 AM Dartford station (DFD) | 0h56 | 10:26 AM Maidstone Barracks (MDB) | 1 transfer | |
| P85308 · P89425 | On time 9:43 AM Dartford station (DFD) | 1h13 | 10:56 AM Maidstone Barracks (MDB) | 1 transfer | |
| P89712 · P85328 · P89425 | On time 9:56 AM Dartford station (DFD) | 1h00 | 10:56 AM Maidstone Barracks (MDB) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Dartford to Maidstone by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Dartford to Maidstone trains with Omio?
Thameslink as well as Southeastern or Southeastern offer trains services from Dartford to Maidstone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Dartford to Maidstone.
Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern or Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Dartford to Maidstone.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Thameslink with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dartford to Maidstone.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern or Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Dartford to Maidstone.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Dartford to Maidstone.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dartford to Maidstone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Dartford to Maidstone run on average 6 times per day, taking around 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr72 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 01:24, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 17 miles (28 km) distance in 36m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 17 miles (28 km) |
Average train duration 49m |
Cheapest ticket price kr72 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 36m |
First train 1:24 AM |
Last train 11:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 6 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: Thameslink, Southeastern from Dartford to Maidstone trainsThameslink, Southeastern trains will get you between Dartford and Maidstone from kr72. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
50m
Cheapest Price
kr72
Thameslink frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Family area
Southeastern
About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
36m
Cheapest Price
kr72
Southeastern frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Family area
Complete guide to Maidstone
Things to do in Maidstone
Discover the best of Maidstone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Maidstone trip today.
- Recommended
Kent Life Heritage Farm Park
Historic manor and museum of rural Kent life near Maidstone. Displays explore farming, local crafts, and historic domestic interiors.
- Recommended
Tyrwhitt-Drake Museum of Carriages
Edwardian artist’s house preserving the home, studio, and collection of Victorian painter Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake. Intimate and distinctive.
- Must visit
Mote Park
Maidstone’s best-known park with lake, woodland, historic remains, and large open lawns. Ideal for walks, boating, and relaxed town escape.
- Recommended
Brenchley Gardens
Riverside green space beside the Medway, popular for walking and views toward the Archbishop’s Palace and All Saints Church.
- Recommended
Millennium River Park
Linear riverside path and open area through the town center. Good for easy walks, boat watching, and linking several historic sights.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkin Apple Pudding
Kent’s famous sweet apple dessert with a light pastry shell. It reflects the county’s orchard heritage and is a classic pudding in local pubs and homes.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkin
A crusty Kent bread roll, often split and filled with local ham or cheese. It is a traditional county bake linked to everyday food in Kent.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Kentish Blue Cheese
Soft local cheese made in nearby Kent, known for its creamy texture and mild flavour. It showcases the county’s long dairy and cheesemaking tradition.
The West House
Fine dining restaurant at The West House in nearby Biddenden, known for refined modern British tasting menus in an elegant countryside setting.
Anatolia Maidstone
Established Turkish restaurant in Maidstone, well regarded for charcoal grilled meats, meze and warm service in a smart casual room.
Mu Mu The Bull
Popular Maidstone pub and restaurant serving British classics, grills and Sunday roasts in a lively historic riverside setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for southern England. Hotels and dining cost more than many UK towns, but local buses and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip about 10% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.50
To the city center
Maidstone East -> Maidstone Chequers Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.6 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Arriva buses in Maidstone. Buying in the official app can also speed up boarding.
- Maidstone town centre is walkable from Maidstone East. Chequers Bus Station is the main hub for local bus connections.
FAQs: Trains from Dartford to Maidstone
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dartford to Maidstone by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Maidstone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Dartford to Maidstone can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr72, while the average price is around kr181.
The train from Dartford to Maidstone takes 36m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Dartford to Maidstone is 17 miles (28 km).
The first train from Dartford to Maidstone leaves at 1:24 AM.
The last train from Dartford to Maidstone leaves at 11:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Dartford to Maidstone.
There is no direct train service currently available from Dartford to Maidstone.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dartford to Maidstone.
The train station in Dartford that goes to Maidstone is Dartford station (DFD), which connects to Maidstone Barracks (MDB).
The cheapest way to get from Dartford to Maidstone is by train, with a cost of around kr72.
The train journey from Dartford to Maidstone offers views of the Kent countryside, including rolling fields and small villages, making it a pleasant and somewhat scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Dartford to Maidstone is feasible. The journey takes 36m and the distance is 17 miles (28 km). There are 3 trains per day.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Maidstone is typically sufficient to explore its key attractions, including Leeds Castle, Mote Park, and the Kent Downs.
Yes, you can take the train from Dartford to Maidstone.
Since neither Dartford nor Maidstone are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Maidstone include London, Sittingbourne, Canterbury, Snodland, Swanley.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dartford to Maidstone among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Maidstone, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and on public transportation. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles to prevent fare scams. Additionally, be wary of unofficial ticket sellers or offers that seem too good to be true when booking transportation. Staying alert and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Dartford to Maidstone
Most Dartford to Maidstone trains use the Dartford to Maidstone Barracks station pair, with some services arriving at Maidstone West. Use this guide to compare Dartford and Maidstone train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Dartford
Arrival train stations in Maidstone
Which Dartford station do trains to Maidstone leave from?
Trains from Dartford to Maidstone leave from Dartford. The station is from Dartford city centre at Dartford station, Station Approach, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1BP.
DartfordDartford station, Station Approach, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1BP+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Dartford from Dartford city centre
BusD30, 429, 414B, 477, 477S · 1m · every ~4 min
Dartford train station facilities and services
Dartford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Dartford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Dartford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dartford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dartford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dartford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dartford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: 2 x in booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Maidstone station do trains from Dartford arrive at?
Trains from Dartford to Maidstone most often arrive at Maidstone Barracks. Some services arrive at Maidstone West, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Maidstone arrival station.
Maidstone BarracksMaidstone Barracks station, Buckland Hill, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 0SQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Maidstone Barracks from Maidstone city centre
Maidstone Barracks is 1 km from Maidstone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTonbridge - Strood, Paddock Wood - Strood, Maidstone West - Strood, Tonbridge - Gillingham · 2m · kr12 · every ~4 min
Bus25A · 25m · kr23
Maidstone Barracks train station facilities and services
Maidstone Barracks has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Maidstone Barracks.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Maidstone Barracks: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Maidstone Barracks: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Maidstone Barracks: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category C. This station does not have step free access.Steps to all platforms down from main road.Interchange between platforms via steps up to road bridge. Unstaffed station. There are no station staff but there are staff to assist on the trains, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: On platform 1, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Maidstone WestStation Approach, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 8RJ, United Kingdom+44 345 322 7021
City-centre transport
Getting to Maidstone West from Maidstone city centre
BusSeveral local bus services available
TrainSoutheastern services
Maidstone West train station facilities and services
Maidstone West has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Maidstone West.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Maidstone West. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Maidstone West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Maidstone West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Maidstone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Maidstone West.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Premier Inn Maidstone, Travelodge Maidstone Central, The Townhouse Hotel.
Maidstone EastMaidstone East station, Station Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1QN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Maidstone East from Maidstone city centre
Maidstone East is 1 km from Maidstone city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus150 · 14m
Maidstone East train station facilities and services
Maidstone East has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Maidstone East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Maidstone East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Maidstone East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Maidstone East: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Maidstone East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B1. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step free access to platform 1 for services towards London from the main side entrance. Step free access to platform 2 for services away from London. Step free access to platform 3, terminal platform, for services towards London. There is step free interchange via road and steep paths in excess of 200 metres. From the Ticket office the step free access to all platforms is via the station forecourt, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 05:30 - 01:00 Saturday 05:30 - 01:00 Sunday 06:30 - 23:59, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Dartford
More options for your journey from Dartford to Maidstone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Maidstone and Dartford
Most popular train connections to Maidstone
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