Maidstone River Festival

We went to Maidstone for the River Festival and had a great time! The banks of the river were lined with decorated boats, there was live music in several locations and lots of food stalls.

One of the most 'interesting' things was being able to go up the bell tower of All Saints' Church. I thought we'd be climbing up to the bell chamber but no, we climbed to the top of the bell tower, which was open. Most of the way round, the parapet was chest-high, but there were some narrow sections where it was only knee-high! I feared a kind of "Hot Fuzz" moment! Stunning views from the top though, and only 97 steps..

After a meal with friends, we walked back into town to watch the Illuminated Boat Parade (pathetic) and the firework display (brilliant - I took loads of badly-timed photos).