Name: The Black Horse Inn
Address: Pilgrims Way Thurnham Nr Maidstone, Maidstone
Telephone: 0800 031 8416
Rating: 4.25

Peaceful Countryside Charm Just Minutes from Music Action

The Black Horse Inn offers a relaxed, rustic escape in the heart of Kent’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just a short drive from Maidstone and key concert venues like Leeds Castle. This cosy rural inn combines country character with modern comforts, making it a refreshing base for music lovers who want to unwind after the show.

Why Concert-goers love it

Just 4.5 miles from Leeds Castle and a 10-minute drive to Maidstone’s lively centre, The Black Horse Inn keeps you close to the music without the city noise. It's perfect for those looking to wind down in comfort after a high-energy night. With easy access to the M20, late-night taxi or ride-share options are simple to arrange. The quiet garden setting is ideal for a restful night after the encore, and the 15:00 check-in and 11:00 check-out offer some flexibility for your travel plans.

Who this Hotel is great for

Groups of friends looking for a laid-back base with space to chill

Solo travelers ticking off a bucket-list gig

Couples turning a concert into a romantic countryside escape

Fans seeking peaceful post-show recovery

Budget-conscious music lovers wanting a unique alternative to city hotels

Food and Drink Options

The on-site restaurant and bar are a highlight, serving locally sourced dishes and Kentish cask ales in a cosy setting with wooden beams and an open fire. Enjoy al fresco dining on the garden patio in warmer months. While there’s no late-night room service, the pub serves hearty meals perfect for a post-concert bite, and tea & coffee-making facilities are in every room to help you start the next day right—even after a late night.

Nightlife Options

While The Black Horse Inn is more about peaceful pints than pulsing beats, its characterful pub atmosphere is perfect for a wind-down drink. For more action, Maidstone’s bars and lounges are just a quick drive away, offering everything from live music spots to cocktail lounges.

What People Say

“Beautiful countryside setting but still close to Maidstone.”

“Rooms were cosy and clean, loved the unique decor.”

“Food in the pub was outstanding — great value and quality.”

“Perfect balance between going to a gig and having a quiet night’s sleep.”

Areas for Improvement

Rooms are set in separate annexes across the grounds, so be ready for a short outdoor walk to your room — not ideal in rainy weather. Also, as a traditional inn, there’s no 24-hour front desk, so plan your arrival accordingly.

The Bottom Line

If you’re after a charming, peaceful retreat with character and comfort after a night of live music, The Black Horse Inn is a great bet.

The Black Horse Inn Guest Reviews

Overall Average Score:

Excellent (4.35 out of 5)

Write a review

Lovely Stay

Great

Liked: The Black Horse Inn is our one and only place to stay when we travel from Chester to visit my wife’s mum and dad. This time was for my wife’s mums 80th birthday, going out for lunch, in the day.This must be our 10th 12th stay. We stayed in block 1, this time.In the evening, my wife and I eat in The Black Horse restaurant with her sister and husband. As ever the food is fantastic. The pub was busy with people staying in the pub and locals. It was a great atmosphere. John is a great host.I did have to ask the lady on reception to reboot the wifi / EV chargers as they had again ‘fallen’ off the network. This has been happening for a year now… maybe a wifi upgrade needed?Breakfast was the usual quality ingredients.We will be back again
Disliked: There was no longer porridge as an option on the breakfast menu for my wife.The room we stayed in needs renovation

Great place to stay lovely...

Liked: We was a party going to a wedding in Maidstone so being together in one place but all sep separate rooms which are all on the ground floor with access for elderly relatives, the rooms were clean bright with a very comfortable bed,.
Disliked: We liked everything here

Great place to eat and...

Liked: A beautiful location, great food, good beer and excellent local English wine, made on the doorstep. Spacious room with comfortable bed and decent ensuite bathroom.
Disliked: Having to leave.

Country Atmosphere

Liked: Very nice ,spacious ,good pub atmosphere

Friendly welcome and good retaurant...

Liked: Friendly staff. Restaurant food was good. Atmospheric pub with a good range of beers and cider.
Disliked: Had to remind the waitress we'd ordered a bottle of wine and it was still late in arriving at the table. And my side dish order wasn't passed to the kitchen! Breakfast was OK but not memorable.The rooms are in cabin type blocks. Clean but small.

Very good

Cutest Venue

Liked: The staff are amazing, so understanding and accommodating. We were upgraded to the bridal suite with a complimentary bottle of Prosecco due to circumstances and our stay was perfect.
Disliked: All was perfect.