- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Folkestone to Maidstone
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$11
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$12
Fastest journey on Sep 20
1 h 6 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
1 h 6 m
Trains on Sep 20
6
Distance
51 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Folkestone to Maidstone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Folkestone to Maidstone will cost around $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Folkestone to Maidstone without transferring at least once.
P90254 · P8668510:41 AM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)11:47 AMMaidstone East (MDE)$111One-way1 transfer- P90241 · P866638:41 AM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)9:47 AMMaidstone East (MDE)$111One-way1 transfer
- P90260 · P8669611:41 AM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)12:47 PMMaidstone East (MDE)$111One-way1 transfer
- P90248 · P866749:41 AM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)10:47 AMMaidstone East (MDE)$111One-way1 transfer
- P90272 · P867161:41 PM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)2:47 PMMaidstone East (MDE)$121One-way1 transfer
- P90254 · P8668510:41 AM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)11:47 AMMaidstone East (MDE)$111One-way1 transfer
- P90272 · P867161:41 PM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)2:47 PMMaidstone East (MDE)$121One-way1 transfer
- P90241 · P866638:41 AM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)9:47 AMMaidstone East (MDE)$111One-way1 transfer
- P90260 · P8669611:41 AM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)12:47 PMMaidstone East (MDE)$111One-way1 transfer
- P90248 · P866749:41 AM1h06Folkestone West (FKW)10:47 AMMaidstone East (MDE)$111One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Folkestone to Maidstone
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Folkestone to Maidstone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $20 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 14m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $20, while a train costs an average of $20.
Distance: 31 miles (51 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$20 Average price Cheapest | $13 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 14m Average total duration Fastest 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Folkestone to Maidstone is a train with an average price of $20.
The fastest way to travel from Folkestone to Maidstone is by train with an average journey time of 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Folkestone and Maidstone including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Folkestone to Maidstone among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 3m sooner (44m by train vs 47m by car). Tickets start at around $20 compared to roughly $13 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Southeastern.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Folkestone to Maidstone train times
The table below shows live departures for Folkestone to Maidstone trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P90241 · P86663 | 8:41 AM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1h06 | 9:47 AM Maidstone East (MDE) | 1 transfer | |
| P90248 · P86674 | 9:41 AM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1h06 | 10:47 AM Maidstone East (MDE) | 1 transfer | |
| P90254 · P86685 | 10:41 AM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1h06 | 11:47 AM Maidstone East (MDE) | 1 transfer | |
| P90260 · P86696 | 11:41 AM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1h06 | 12:47 PM Maidstone East (MDE) | 1 transfer | |
| P90266 · P86707 | 12:41 PM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1h06 | 1:47 PM Maidstone East (MDE) | 1 transfer | |
| P90272 · P86716 | 1:41 PM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1h06 | 2:47 PM Maidstone East (MDE) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Folkestone 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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Sep 20
Sep 20
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Why should you book Folkestone to Maidstone trains with Omio?
Southeastern as well as Southeastern offer trains services from Folkestone to Maidstone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Folkestone to Maidstone.
Why book with Omio vs Southeastern?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southeastern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Folkestone 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 Southeastern with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Folkestone to Maidstone.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Folkestone to Maidstone.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Folkestone to Maidstone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Folkestone to Maidstone run on average 5 times per day, taking around 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 31 miles (51 km) distance in 43m.
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 31 miles (51 km) |
Average train duration 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 43m |
First train 12:09 AM |
Last train 11:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 28 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: Southeastern from Folkestone to Maidstone trainsSoutheastern trains will get you between Folkestone and Maidstone from $12. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Southeastern Duration
43m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
$12
Southeastern frequency
6 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 Folkestone to Maidstone
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Folkestone 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 Folkestone to Maidstone can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12, while the average price is around $20.
The train from Folkestone to Maidstone takes 43m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Folkestone to Maidstone leaves at 12:09 AM.
The distance by train from Folkestone to Maidstone is 31 miles (51 km).
The last train from Folkestone to Maidstone leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Folkestone to Maidstone.
Yes, there is a direct train from Folkestone to Maidstone. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Southeastern.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Folkestone to Maidstone.
The train station in Folkestone that goes to Maidstone is Folkestone West (FKW), which connects to Maidstone East (MDE).
The cheapest way to get from Folkestone to Maidstone is by train, with a cost of around $12.
The train journey from Folkestone to Maidstone offers views of the Kent countryside, including rolling hills and picturesque villages, providing a pleasant and scenic experience.
Yes, a day trip from Folkestone to Maidstone is feasible with a travel time of 43m and trains running 6 times per day. The distance is 31 miles (51 km).
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 Folkestone to Maidstone.
Since neither Folkestone 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, Dartford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Folkestone 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 Folkestone to Maidstone
Most Folkestone to Maidstone trains use the Folkestone West to Maidstone East station pair. Use this guide to compare Folkestone and Maidstone train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Folkestone
Arrival train stations in Maidstone
Which Folkestone station do trains to Maidstone leave from?
Trains from Folkestone to Maidstone leave from Folkestone West. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Folkestone city centre at Folkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · $4 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone West. 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 Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. 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 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, 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: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Folkestone CentralFolkestone Central station, Station Approach, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5HB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone Central from Folkestone city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stop outside of the station (exit station, walk down the slope and turn right. Bus stop is just beyond the bridge)
Folkestone Central train station facilities and services
Folkestone Central has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone Central. 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 Folkestone Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Step free access via lift or steep ramps from main entrance, 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: In the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 24 Hours a Day Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Maidstone station do trains from Folkestone arrive at?
Trains from Folkestone to Maidstone arrive at Maidstone East. Maidstone East is 0 miles (1 km) from Maidstone city centre.
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 Folkestone
More options for your journey from Folkestone to Maidstone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Maidstone and Folkestone
Most popular train connections to Maidstone
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