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the river It was so peaceful on , relaxed and we all felt calm and tranquil.
Allington Belle Self Drive Boat Hire Review
We were fortunate to take out Maidstone Belle, one of their silent picnic boats that seats up to 10 people. For half a day hire this costs £150 (only £15/person!) or a full day is £220 (I’m sure you can do the maths on this one). They are really easy to drive with just a forward and reverse leaver – much to my husband’s relief (I had to look after our children of course).
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Once on the boat everyone was having a good look around; a gas hob, running water, cups, plates and cutlery even a toilet. The children thought it was great having a toilet on a boat! You could sit outside of the boat at the front and rear and the middle was undercover with soft comfy seating. We all opted to sit outside as it was a sunny afternoon.
My family and I had the great pleasure of taking out one of Allington Belle’s self drive boats. Until now I didn’t realise you could even hire self drive boats in Maidstone! It turned out my family didn’t know either – so please do spread the word. Allington Belle boat hire is situated off Newbury Avenue which is the turning past Waitrose at Mid Kent Shopping Centre. We followed the road until we arrived at a small archway, so small in fact we wondered if we were supposed to drive through it! Turning into the lane we went down a hill all wondering if we had taken the right turning and then after only a few seconds arrived at the boat yard. Foords Wharf boat yard is like being in a little oasis, so quiet and peaceful, surrounded by nature and trees away from the hustle and bustle of Maidstone town centre.
Bev greeted us and took us to a little wooden hut where she fitted buoyancy aides to the children. She showed us a map of the river and how far you can travel in 2 hours, half a day (4 hours) or a full day (8 hours). In 2 hours we could sail through the town centre and reach East Farleigh Lock, and then turn around. If you go for a half day you can sail to Teston Country Park or a full day will take you to Yalding and back. Prices are very reasonable starting from £45 for 2 hours hire (Else Belle) and vary depending on which size boat you choose. If the weather turns bad you are able to cancel your booking with no charge you just need to call Bev by 9am.
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IAAK July 14 (32pg).indd 10-11
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Steve and Henry showed us how to steer and control the boat and we were on our way. As we departed Bev shouted out “you’ll see the river from a different perspective” and she was right. We all felt like we weren’t in Maidstone at all. It was so peaceful on the river and we all felt calm, relaxed and tranquil. As we sailed along we were all guessing where we were as you could see how lucky some of our residents are that have a big garden that backs onto the river. “This must be Tovil” my husband said, “No, it’s the back of College Road” my mum would say. Beautiful green trees lead the way through the town centre and towards East Farleigh Lock with my husband physicing himself up for the U turn back to boat yard. Another thing I noticed “down on the river” was how friendly everyone was. Every person we passed be it on a boat or sitting on the river bank all waved and said hello. Much different from the hustle and bustle of the town where no-one’s eyes meet and people appear less friendly. We didn’t have the time to stop off for a picnic this time but all agreed what a lovely day out it would make and we will definitely return to Allington Belle boat hire to arrange our memorable family day out.
rree i i H t at o o B B e ll e AAllingttoon BBeel
Self drive day boats on the river Medway Call 01622
661064 or 07763242701
www.allingtonbelle.co.uk Fords wharf marine Allington Maidstone Kent ME16 0BP inandaround
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15/05/2015 11:17