20m2
20-60
Getting Here
The Kent Event Centre is ideally suited for arrival by car as we are located just off the A249 dual carriageway.
From the M20 Motorway, exit the motorway at junction 7 and follow signs to Sittingbourne, Sheerness A249. Follow the A249 for approximately 2 miles, the Kent Event Centre & Kent Showground are clearly signposted on the left-hand side after the brow of the hill.
From the M2 Motorway, exit the motorway at junction 5 signposted (M20) Maidstone A249. Follow the A249 for approximately 5 miles. Please be aware that cars are unable to cross over the carriage way to the Showground on the right-hand side of the road. Visitors will need to carry on along the A249 to the roundabout at the bottom of Detling hill, then follow the M20 directions above.
Please note: The Kent Event Centre is no longer accessible via Scragged Oak Road. Using this route will direct you to a locked gate.
On-site
The Kent Event Centre has parking for up to 30,000 vehicles. For events within the Showground site there is hard standing around all the exhibition halls with plenty of overflow parking within easy walking distance. For public outdoor events, organisers can choose car parking to correspond with the public entrances they require. The Kent Showground has six entrances with disabled parking at the main two entrances.
Accessibility
The concrete road infrastructure throughout the Showground means that visitors are able to access all areas of the Showground as well as ramp access to all exhibition halls. The meeting rooms in the Clive Emson Conference centre can be accessed via a lift to the first floor.
Where to Stay
FAQs
Where is the nearest railway station?
Maidstone East Railway Station is 4.2 miles from the Kent Event Centre. Trains to London Victoria depart twice an hour. For live departures please visit http://ojp.nationalrail.co.uk/...
Where is the nearest airport?
Gatwick airport is 41 miles from Kent Event Centre.
Where is the nearest petrol station?
Shell Petrol Station Detling is 0.3 miles from the entrance of the showground. Address DETLING HILL, MAIDSTONE, ME14 3HT
Where is the nearest cash machine?
Shell Petrol Station Detling is 0.3 miles from the entrance of the showground. Address DETLING HILL, MAIDSTONE, ME14 3HT
Can you recommend a taxi company?
We recommend the following taxi companies:
Streamline 01622 750000
Sapphire Cabs 01622 663000
Is there food & drink available on site?
Unfortunately, we don’t have permanent catering facilities available on site. However, many of our larger exhibitions and conferences offer this service. Speak to your organiser directly.
Where is the nearest place to eat?
Bangers Diner is 0.3 miles from the entrance of the showground. They offer an authentic American roadside diner experience. For the full menu and more information please visit http://www.bangersdiner.com/
Do you offer wheelchair hire?
The Kent Event Centre don’t offer Wheelchair hire but can recommend the following local organisations who do for a small donation.
Age UK Maidstone
Contact 01622 753618 or pop into their office at 7 Mill Street, Maidstone ME15 6XW.
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/maids...
British Red Cross Maidstone
Contact 01622 758643 or visit The Old School, School lane, Willington St, Maidstone ME15 8DU.
Can I bring my dog?
Generally well behaved dogs are allowed on leads in the outside areas. Guide and hearing dogs are allowed in the meeting and conference rooms but please let the venue know before you arrive, so we can make provisions.
Please note this can vary depending on the event so please contact your event organiser directly if you are unsure.
Can I smoke on site?
Smoking is strictly prohibited inside any buildings on the Showground and restricted to designated smoking areas outside. This also applies to e-cigarettes and vaping.
Is there access to WiFi?
We offer free, fast Wi-fi for all events, suitable for browsing, social media and email. Look for Free Wifi – Kent Event Centre. No need for a password, just open your chosen browser and select “Connect to the Internet.”
What happens to lost property?
If you’ve lost something at the Kent Event Centre first port of call is to speak directly to your event organiser. Most organisers take responsibility for their event's lost property. Alternatively call our events team on 01622 630975.
Do you allow overnight parking?
Leaving vehicles at the Showground overnight must be done so with care. Unless a public event is taking place, the Showground will be locked overnight, weekends and bank holidays so you may not be able to gain access the next day. Please speak directly to your event organiser if you have any concerns.
Any vehicle left overnight will be left at the owner’s risk.
Are there any camping and caravan sites on the Showground?
Yes, Oak View Caravan Park offers both camping and caravan facilities and is adjacent to the Kent Event Centre. Call 01622 631298 or visit their website www.oakviewcaravanpark.co.uk for more info.
How long will I have to set up my event?
This will vary depending on the type and size of your event. We are able to discuss the set-up and breakdown times that would be appropriate to ensure a successful event.
What Health & Safety documentation will I need?
The Event Team has extensive Health & Safety training and will be happy to help advise on all your H & S and legal requirements.
Can you provide everything I need for my event?
The Kent Event Centre are able to provide everything for your event from table decorations to lighting towers. No request is too big or small and the team have experience in locating specialist items for every eventuality.
Can I use my own caterer?
The Kent Event Centre has a number of catering areas that may be used by your own caterer. The facilities will be included as an extra in the cost of the booking. If you need help with catering, the Kent Event Centre Team have a number of excellent caterers that they would be happy to recommend.
Do you have audio-visual equipment?
We have full AV equipment in a number of our meeting facilities and conference halls. Depending on your requirements we have a number of suppliers that are familiar with the Event Centre and are able to provide equipment to all specifications.
