About The Source
The Source Bar (often just called The Source) is a two-level nightclub in central Maidstone, Kent. Opened in summer 1999 (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), it quickly established itself as “the dance music institution it is today” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). In fact, the club’s own website boasts that it is “Maidstone’s only venue specialising in real quality music” (thesourcebar.co.uk ). With a main dance floor on the ground level and a lounge upstairs with balcony smoke areas (sibleypares.co.uk ), it combines a sizable capacity (licensed up to ~600–700 people (sibleypares.co.uk ) (www.skiddle.com )) with an intimate club atmosphere. The Source’s long history and influence on the scene – it helped launch the careers of DJs like Nic Fanciulli and Mark Knight (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) – make it a local landmark. Its owner, Stephen Moore, has run The Source for many years and even opened another town-centre dance venue (The W House), underlining The Source’s part in shaping Maidstone nightlife (www.ticketfairy.com ). Signature features include high-end sound and lighting systems, multiple service bars and a view-balcony for smokers (www.ticketfairy.com ). Over the decades The Source has hosted everything from underground club DJs to internationally famous acts, earning it a reputation as the hub of Maidstone’s dance scene (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Events and Programming
The Source is primarily a dance club that operates on weekend nights. It’s generally open on Fridays and Saturdays, with doors often around 10pm, and it also hosts occasional daytime or special events (for example on bank holidays) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Programming focuses on electronic and club music: techno, house, drum’n’bass, garage and similar genres are common (www.ticketfairy.com ). Each night may have a theme or be run by a local promoter or club brand. Regular themed nights include retrospectives (like an “Over-30s Decades Party” featuring classic house tunes (www.skiddle.com )) and seasonal events (Halloween, New Year’s raves, etc.). In recent years The Source has even hosted under-18 parties (such as a “Shocking” Halloween rave for 14–17-year-olds) (list.co.uk ), alongside its usual 18+ club nights.
Lineups mix resident DJs with guest stars. Maidstone locals and club residents warm up the floor, but the venue has also drawn big names. Pete Tong once broadcast his Radio 1 show from The Source (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), and DJs like Nic Fanciulli, Eats Everything, Carl Cox, Solardo and Cassy have played headline sets there (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, in 2018 the club hosted major bookings such as deadmau5 with Nic Fanciulli (www.ents24.com ) and a house music event featuring Nic Fanciulli, Pan-Pot and Eats Everything (www.ents24.com ). More recently (late 2024) it has held events like the “Hazardous Materials” bass music night (with MC Funsta) (www.ents24.com ). In summary, The Source’s calendar is packed with club nights and special dance events nearly every week, covering a wide range of styles. Tickets typically range from modest club-night prices (often £5–£10) up to £15–£20 for bigger headliners; advanced booking is common and helps ensure entry.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at The Source are usually sold online through national UK ticketing platforms and the venue’s own channels. The club’s website encourages fans to “sign up for exclusive access” and join the mailing list (thesourcebar.co.uk ), which often gives early notice and presale access to new events. Fans typically purchase in advance once events are announced; popular shows can sell out, so it’s wise to buy early. If a show isn’t sold out, a limited number of tickets may be available at the door on the night, but availability can’t be guaranteed. Door prices tend to be slightly higher than advance rates. There is no fixed public box office on site – tickets are handled through the online box office or advertised vendors. When booking, note that The Source hosts events at slightly different times (some start in the afternoon for 30+ parties, others late at night for youth raves), so always check the event’s listed start and door time.
Seating and Layout
The Source has an open, multi-area layout with no fixed seating. It is strictly a standing-room clublanе. The ground floor is the main dance hall: a big open space in front of the DJ booth, backed by a large bar and a cocktail/lounge area towards the rear (www.ticketfairy.com ) (sibleypares.co.uk ). Behind the rear bar there is even a small outdoor courtyard (often used for smoking or breaks). Upstairs on the first floor is a second bar and lounge room overlooking the main floor (sibleypares.co.uk ). This upper mezzanine has seating / booth areas and a balcony with views down to the dance floor. Because all viewing areas are general admission, fans usually circulate freely between the main floor and the upper lounge.
The main dance floor offers the healthiest sound and lights – speakers steer music across the centre of the floor – so DJs and dancers usually gravitate there. For a more relaxed vantage (and often a bit quieter), the first-floor lounge balcony is popular; it provides a perch above the crowd and a view of the DJ. There is no “bad seat” since everything is standing, but for best audio clarity stay toward the centre of the main floor (far corners or extreme sides can sound uneven). Some people also like to lean near the bars for a break. One unique touch: the club’s first-floor balcony overlooks the ground floor, and is often used as a covered smoking area – it offers an interesting perspective if you need a break from the crowd (sibleypares.co.uk ). In short, if you want to dance, join the centre of the main room; if you want to chat or relax, head upstairs near the lounge buffets.
Getting There and Parking
The Source Bar is in Maidstone town centre at 4–6 Rose Yard, Maidstone ME14 1HN (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.skiddle.com ). Rose Yard is a pedestrian alley connecting Earl Street and High Street, so you can approach the venue on foot from either end. By road, Maidstone is conveniently accessed from the M20 motorway (junctions 5, 6 or 7) (sibleypares.co.uk ). There is no private parking at Rose Yard itself. The nearest public car park is the Fremlin Walk multi-storey (under House of Fraser) on Earl Street, about a 5-minute walk away (kentdjacademy.com ). This spacious 760-space garage is pay-on-exit and open 24/7 (approx. £3 for 2 hours or £5 for 4 hours). From there you exit onto Earl Street and walk uphill to Rose Yard (turning right just past Wagamama) (kentdjacademy.com ). Other nearby parking options include Mill Street car park (under the Police Station) and King Street car parks, each a short walk from Rose Yard.
By public transport, Maidstone has two main train stations. Maidstone East is on the South Eastern route to London Victoria (about a 5- to 10-minute walk from town centre). Maidstone West (connected via Strood) offers faster links to London St Pancras; it’s roughly a 10-minute walk or short taxi ride away (kentdjacademy.com ). By bus, local routes serve the town centre extensively. Most buses arrive on King Street or Gabriel’s Hill a couple of minutes’ walk from Rose Yard – for example, routes X3, 58, 71 and others stop near High Street or the Royal Star Arcade, just 2–5 minutes from the club. In fact, The Source’s High Street entrance is steps from a main bus stop (kentdjacademy.com ). Meanwhile, taxis and ride-shares can drop off at either end of Rose Yard. When planning your journey, note that trains and buses end service around midnight, so for late-night returns you may want to pre-book a taxi or ride-share (there is a taxi rank near Frederick Street, off Fremlin Walk). Walking from Fremlin Walk shopping centre is very straightforward: it’s just a 2-minute stroll to the venue (sibleypares.co.uk ). In summary, The Source is in the heart of Maidstone, easily accessible by car (via M20), train or bus, with the main bus stops and parking within a few minutes’ walk (kentdjacademy.com ) (sibleypares.co.uk ).
Inside the Venue
On arrival, you’ll enter through the main Rose Yard entrance. Security staff (SIA-licensed male and female guards) typically check tickets and photo IDs at the door. All visitors are subject to search on entry (list.co.uk ), including bag checks. Alcoholic drinks are served inside so bringing alcohol from outside is not allowed. Once you’re in, you’ll find two main bar areas – one on each level (sibleypares.co.uk ) – where you can buy beers, spirits and soft drinks. The ground-floor bar is large with up to four service areas for bartenders (it can have up to 6 staff at busy times) (sibleypares.co.uk ). Upstairs there is a smaller lounge bar and seating. Both floors have restrooms: on the ground floor there are separate women’s and men’s toilets plus a disabled-access toilet nearby (sibleypares.co.uk ), and the first floor has another set of washrooms for patrons. Note that the venue is fairly dark (typical nightclub lighting) and very loud – earplugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive. Mobile phone reception inside can be spotty due to the concrete and crowd, but there is often data signal from the balcony area. The atmosphere is high-energy and friendly; staff and bartenders are generally used to club crowds. Coat checks are not advertised – it’s best to bring a small bag or none at all. One unique feature is the upstairs balcony/smoking terrace: you can step out there for fresh air or chat over a drink while still seeing the DJs (and smokers often use this covered balcony area (sibleypares.co.uk )). Finally, many events at The Source do not allow cameras or video to be taken on the dance floor (as is common for clubs), and taking merchandise or food. Typically only small personal items are permitted (and hats/caps often must be removed). See the next section for more on policies.
Nearby Amenities
The Source is surrounded by Maidstone’s town-centre amenities. For pre-show dining, a huge variety of restaurants and bars lie within a 5-minute walk, particularly around the Fremlin Walk shopping centre and High Street. In Fremlin Walk itself you’ll find casual chains (pizza, burgers, etc.), coffee shops and pubs. Several well-known restaurants are on nearby Earl Street and Week Street – for example, Wagamama (Japanese), The Herbalist (veggie pizza), Giggling Squid (Thai) and local pubs like the Corn Exchange (craft beers). The high street of Maidstone is one block away, offering everything from fast-food outlets to upscale pubs and brewpubs. If you need a drink after the show, there are late-night bars within 100m: the Muggleton Inn (a Wetherspoon pub) and The Octagon (students’ union bar) are on the corner of High Street and Gabriels Hill. For overnight stays, several hotels are nearby: a Premier Inn and Travelodge are within 5–10 minutes’ walk (near the railway station area), and a Mercure is at the other end of town. If you plan to arrive very early or leave late, Fremlin Walk also has amenities like an on-site car park (mentioned earlier) and late-night street parking beyond 6pm. Overall, the venue sits at the heart of Maidstone’s leisure district, so food, lodging and post-show options are plentiful and easily reached by foot.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Source stands out in Maidstone for its long history and unique character. It’s a club with deep roots (founded in 1999 (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )) that helped put Maidstone on the dance-music map. Its reputation is built on championing cutting-edge music: the venue has seen famous international DJs (Pete Tong, Carl Cox, Mark Knight, Fatboy Slim and more) and has served as a launching pad for local talent (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Indeed, Nic Fanciulli – now a world-famous DJ – spun here early in his career (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Locals often call The Source a "dance music institution" and credit it with giving Maidstone a lively nightlife (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Its owner’s commitment (including opening another club in town) underscores that. The building’s two-storey design is also distinctive: you have a true balcony lounge overlooking the packed dance floor, something uncommon in small towns. The sound and lighting systems are “pro” club standard, so DJs and audiences alike praise the atmosphere. Over the years The Source has hosted both epic parties and community moments – for example, it even turned into a fan-zone during recent England World Cup matches (www.kentonline.co.uk ). In short, The Source matters because it’s one of Kent’s last legacy nightclubs: its architecture, its storied DJ lineups, and the devotion of local clubbers all contribute to a sense that this place is more than just a bar – it’s a cultural hub for Maidstone’s music scene (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.kentonline.co.uk ).
Visitor Tips and Information
To get the most out of a night at The Source, plan ahead and pack light. **ID and age:** Most nights are 18+ and you must bring valid photo ID (driver’s licence or passport). For example, one event promoter warned “No ID – No admission” (list.co.uk ), so double-check your ID before leaving. **Entry and security:** Expect a quick queue for ticket scan and a security search. Men and women staff will pat down bodies and check bags. Prohibited items include outside food/drinks, glass bottles, sharp objects, vapes or cigarettes (list.co.uk ) – even graphic prints on clothing can draw attention, so keep it simple. Dress code is generally casual clubwear: you’ll see trainers and jeans, but at least one event specifically forbade tracksuits and boots (list.co.uk ), so avoid overly gym-style clothing or heavy footwear. **When to arrive:** Doors often open around 10pm, and lines can form early for popular DJs. If you arrive too late on a sell-out night, you may be turned away. Try to arrive by 11pm at the latest, and earlier (9–10pm) if the event is special or themed. **Peak vs. early:** The main floor fills up quickly, so if you want prime spot in front of the DJs, get there early. If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, the upstairs lounge is quiet at first but will fill gradually. **Gear to bring:** Your phone for pictures and digital tickets, earplugs (the sound system is very loud), and some cash or card for drinks and coat check (if offered). There is limited (if any) cloakroom service, so bring a small cross-body bag or nothing at all. **Accessibility:** The ground floor is step-free and there is a disabled restroom (sibleypares.co.uk ). However, note that the upstairs lounge is only reachable by stairs, so guests in wheelchairs must stay on the ground level. **Timing out:** The club runs late (often until 4am) under its 24-hour licence (sibleypares.co.uk ). Public transit will be minimal after midnight, so arrange a taxi or check if train services suit your plans. **Common mistakes to avoid:** Don’t pre-game too heavily (intoxicated patrons are often turned away), and don’t leave valuables unattended. Respect staff, queues, and other clubbers. **Connectivity:** There is no stage lighting or usage to mention, but do note that Wi-Fi is not provided. **Miscellaneous:** Smoking is only permitted in the outdoor smoking balcony (sibleypares.co.uk ), not on the dance floor. If you step out for air, pay attention to your return time as re-entry may be restricted once you leave. Lastly, keep an eye on the venue’s social media or website for any special rules (for example, themed nights may have costume suggestions or stricter entry checks).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Source Bar?
The Source Bar can hold around 600–700 people, according to local listings (sibleypares.co.uk ) (www.skiddle.com ). It has a 24-hour licence for 600 people indoors, plus extra capacity outdoors (used for special events) (sibleypares.co.uk ). This makes it one of Maidstone’s larger club spaces, yet it still feels intimate.
What types of events does The Source Bar host?
It’s primarily a nightclub, so most events are club nights featuring electronic dance music (house, techno, D&B, garage, etc.) (www.ticketfairy.com ). You’ll find weekly theme nights (often on Fridays or Saturdays), as well as special one-off events like Halloween or summer parties. The Source also accommodates themed events for different age groups – for example it hosts occasional over-30s “decades” dance parties or even under-18s raves in the early evening (list.co.uk ) (www.skiddle.com ). In short, expect DJs spinning and dancing – from local DJs to touring names – across the spectrum of dance genres. (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )
How can I buy tickets for shows at The Source?
Tickets are sold online through the club’s official site and major UK ticketing platforms. The venue encourages fans to join its mailing list or social media updates (thesourcebar.co.uk ), which often announce when tickets go on sale. Advance purchase is recommended (and typically cheaper) because popular shows can sell out. If tickets remain, there may be a limited box office sale at the door (cash or card), but rely on online booking to secure your spot. Keep an eye on promoters’ pages or The Source’s site for exact links and on-sale dates.
Is there a box office or can I buy tickets at the door?
There isn’t a permanent box office you can visit before showtime; tickets are mostly sold online. At many events they do allow purchases at the door if not sold out. For guaranteed entry it’s best to buy in advance. When arriving, look for the ticket table near the entrance where staff will scan or sell remaining tickets. If the event is sold out or full capacity is reached, the door will close to further entry.
What is the dress code at The Source Bar?
Dress is typically casual clubwear. Many guests wear tidy jeans, t-shirts, and trainers. One thing to note: certain events may issue specific style guidelines. For instance, a youth event at The Source warned against wearing track suits or heavy boots (list.co.uk ), though trainers and casual dance attire are fine. In general, you don’t need formal wear – smart casual with comfortable shoes is perfect. Avoid bags or items that might slow you down in a crowded dancefloor.
What are the age restrictions for entry?
Most nights at The Source are 18+ (ID required) since it’s licensed as a nightclub. Occasionally there are special events for younger people (often early-evening parties with supervised entry), which will be clearly advertised (for example, “Under-18s” events noted by age range on flyers (list.co.uk )). Always check the event flyer: if age 18+ is specified, under-18s will not be admitted. When 18+ rules apply, bring a valid ID (passport or driving licence), because “No ID – No entry” is strictly enforced (list.co.uk ).
Is The Source Bar wheelchair accessible?
The main entrance and ground-floor area of The Source are step-free and suitable for wheelchairs. The ground floor also has a disabled-accessible restroom (sibleypares.co.uk ). However, the club’s first-floor lounge can only be reached by stairs and has no lift, so it is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests with mobility needs can still enjoy the ground-floor dance floor and bar, but the upper balcony level is off-limits without using stairs.
What public transport options are there to get to The Source?
Public transit is convenient. By train, ride to Maidstone East or Maidstone West stations. Maidstone East (arriving from London Victoria or Ashford) is just a 5–10 minute walk into town. Maidstone West (from Strood/St Pancras) is about a 10-minute walk or short taxi ride. By bus, multiple routes serve the town centre; key stops are King Street or Gabriel’s Hill, which lie about 200m (2–4 minute walk) from Rose Yard. In fact, buses regularly stop right by the High Street entrance to Rose Yard (kentdjacademy.com ). From the bus station at Fremlin Walk (Gabriel’s Hill) it’s a 3-minute walk. In summary: trains to either Maidstone station, or catch a local bus to High Street/Gabriel’s Hill and walk a couple of hundred metres.
Where can I park near The Source?
Rose Yard itself is pedestrianised, so no parking is directly at the door. The closest public car park is the Fremlin Walk multi-storey (68 Earl Street), roughly a 4-minute walk away (kentdjacademy.com ). It is pay-on-exit (cashless) and open late (about £3 for 2 hours, £5 for 4 hours). Exit the car park onto Earl Street, walk up to the Wagamama restaurant, then turn right into Rose Yard (kentdjacademy.com ). Other options include the Mill Street car park or street parking around central Maidstone (metered until 6pm). After 6pm many town centre spaces are free, but do check signs. Rideshare and taxis are also convenient – you can get dropped off on Earl Street or High Street and walk a few metres to Rose Yard.
Is there seating or is it all general admission?
The Source is general admission only – there are no fixed seats. It has a multi-room layout with open spaces. Everyone stands on the dance floors (www.ticketfairy.com ) or in the lounge. The first-floor lounge area does have couches and low tables (like a chill-out bar), but these are unreserved and fill up on a first-come basis. Expect to be standing for most of the night. The layout is versatile – you can stow yourself along the bar or edges if you want a seat, but on busy nights it’s mostly dancing.
Can I buy food or drinks inside The Source?
Yes. There are two bar areas (one on each floor) where you can purchase drinks. Beer, cider, wine, spirits, and soft drinks are sold at the bars. The ground floor bar is large with multiple service points (sibleypares.co.uk ); the upstairs bar is smaller. The venue doesn’t have a kitchen, so only drinks are available inside (no full meals). Outside food and drink are not allowed in, but there are many restaurants nearby if you want dinner before heading in.
What are the venue’s policies on smoking?
Smokers cannot smoke on the dance floor or indoor areas. However, The Source has a dedicated outdoor smoking area: a balcony/patio off the first floor (sibleypares.co.uk ). If you wish to smoke, step out onto that balcony (still at ground-floor level via stairs). Be aware that queues or stairs might be involved. There may be strict searches for cigarettes or e-cigarettes if your event has a no-smoking policy, so check the event rules (some listed “no cigarettes” explicitly (list.co.uk )). Generally, plan to use the balcony area for any smoking.
Is photography or video allowed inside?
Simple cell phone photos are usually tolerated, but policy can vary. Professional cameras or extensive filming are generally not allowed (as with most nightclubs) unless part of an official media/press pass. Flash photography is unlikely in a dark club environment. In any case, staff may ask you to delete images if they contain security details. Always ask a staff member if you intend to take lots of photos. For personal memories, discreet phone photos are normally fine, but don’t block aisles or bother other guests to get them.
Does The Source Bar have coat check or lockers?
There is no formal “coat check” desk like a large concert hall might have. At busy times the staff may clear space behind the bar for coats or help you stash items safely, but this cannot be guaranteed. The advice is to travel light (bring only what you need) or wear your coat into the club and leave it on an empty seat edge or high bar stool. Big backpacks and valuables should really be left at home or locked in your car, since space is limited.
Can I re-enter if I leave the venue?
Most nights, The Source treats entry as a one-time admission. If you leave the club (for example, to smoke outside), you usually cannot come back in on the same ticket. The entrance staff typically tear or scan your ticket in a way that prevents reuse. This is common for capacity control and safety. If you think you might need to go out and come back (maybe for important reasons), best to check with security as policies can vary per event. Generally, it’s safer to plan to stay inside once admitted.
What time do doors usually open and close?
On regular club nights, doors often open around 10pm or 11pm. Closing time varies but often is around 4am (it has a 24-hour licence) (sibleypares.co.uk ). The exact hours should be on the event listing. For special day events (like over-30s parties), doors can open in the afternoon (e.g. a 3pm start) (www.skiddle.com ). Always check the specific event: if it’s a late-night club set it will typically say “doors 10pm”, whereas a daytime event will have its own schedule.
Why is The Source an important venue in Maidstone?
Because of its history and cultural role. The Source opened in 1999 and helped create Maidstone’s club scene (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). It’s known for bringing big-name DJs to town (for example Pete Tong, Carl Cox, Mark Knight, Fatboy Slim have all played here (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )) and for nurturing local talent. Locals consider it a “dance music institution” (www.ticketfairy.com ) – one of the few lasting nightclubs in the region. Economically, it keeps Maidstone’s evening economy lively, supporting local DJs, bar staff and related businesses. Socially, it’s a community hub: fans have celebrated national events here (like watching football World Cups) (www.kentonline.co.uk ). All together, these legendary nights and its signature sound and design give The Source a unique place in Maidstone’s culture (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.kentonline.co.uk ).
