Connecting Communities

The Downswood Community Association in Maidstone originated in 1986 as a support network for people moving to the newly-developed Parish of Downswood. Today, the association continues this good work - assisting the local community and managing the Downswood Community Centre with a selection of services, gatherings and groups.

A major long-term goal for the organisation is to develop a true sense of community. Downswood welcomes all local people regardless of background or age – ensuring everyone is treated fairly and equally.

Whilst Downswood may be one of the smallest parishes in the South of English, its community association provides plenty of activities and support for the local people, from keep-fit classes and sports events to drama clubs and martial arts.

There’s a strong charitable drive in everything the Downswood Community Association conducts, helping to raise money for all manner of good causes.

Find it on Google Maps: Downswood Community Association

Find out more on the website: Downswood Community Association

Catch the bus: 4 Maidstone Town Centre to Downswood

One of Kent’s most exciting and unforgettable days out, the Historic Dockyard in Chatham is home to three warships, 10 museums and galleries and an amazing itinerary of events and activities to enjoy throughout the year. Spread over an 80-acre site, the entire family can explore a unique array of wartime and maritime artefacts, dating back hundreds of years.

Great for kids, the warships and many of the exhibitions are truly larger than life, and provide a great insight into the wartime history of this proud naval nation. The three historic warships, HMS Gannet, HMS Cavalier and HM Submarine Ocelot, are the undoubted stars of the show, and can be boarded by guests as they experience just a little of what life must have been like for the brave seafaring men of the Royal Navy. The site itself has plenty of history, having been a Royal Navy shipyard for 400 years, and the birthplace of the nation’s most famous ship, the HMS Victory. And whilst the shipyard is not still actively turning our warships today, it still has plenty of stories to share with all who care to visit.

Find it on Google Maps: Chatham Historic Dockyard

Find out more on the website: Chatham Historic Dockyard

Catch the bus: 182 Chatham Twydall

The U3A (The University of the Third Age) operates a number of groups throughout Kent and Surrey, providing a great array of learning groups for retired and semi-retired locals. If you want to develop new skills, brush up on your specialist subject, or just meet like-minded individuals, discover if there’s a U3A local to you.

Sun Pier House is a unique arts space in Chatham, home to a gallery, cafe, hire rooms, and artist studios.

We work with artists, creative organisations and those who want to make the world better through cultural engagement. We are a not-for-profit arts organisation, re-investing in our community. We run an annual programme of projects and events that engage all ages from 3-months to 90-years old.

The Riverside Gallery at Sun Pier House is a truly unique space to visit. Located alongside the River Medway, the gallery space has hosted many shows with work on show by high profile artists such as Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin, Bartosz Beda, and Billy Childish. The normal opening hours for the gallery and cafe are Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 4pm, these can alter depending on our events programme, please check at sunpierhouse.co.uk before you travel.

Our onsite cafe provides a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of Chatham High Street, enjoying unique river views that stretch from Rochester Castle to Upnor Castle. The cafe hosts a wide variety of events and sits within the changing Gallery exhibitions. Whether you’re looking for a social place to meet friends, a sweet treat, or some creative inspiration our team are ready to welcome you in.