About The Source
The Source Bar is a two-level nightclub in central Maidstone (address 4-6 Rose Yard, ME14 1HN (www.skiddle.com )) known for dance music and club nights. Opened in summer 1999 (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), it quickly became what local listings call “the dance music institution it is today.” As Maidstone’s only venue devoted to “real quality music,” The Source operates primarily on weekend nights (thesourcebar.co.uk ) and has hosted countless DJs on its decks. Its premises span two floors: the ground level has the main bar and dance area, plus a back cocktail bar and pavilion, while the first floor contains a second bar and lounge (with balcony smoke areas) overlooking the main floor (www.kentonline.co.uk ) (www.kentonline.co.uk ). The multi-room layout means general admission is standing-room only, but versatility is high. The club has a 24-hour licence for up to 600 people indoors (with outdoor license up to 1,300) (www.kentonline.co.uk ), making it sizable by local standards yet still intimate. The venue’s owner, Stephen Moore, has run the club for years and even opened a new multi-floor dance venue (The W House) in Maidstone’s town center (www.kentonline.co.uk ), underlining The Source’s long-standing influence on the local scene. (In 2024 the freehold was listed after about 25 years of operation (www.kentonline.co.uk ), reflecting its quarter-century legacy.) Signature features include high-end sound and lighting for nightclubs, multiple service bars, and a balcony for smokers (www.kentonline.co.uk ) (www.kentonline.co.uk ). Overall, The Source Bar is both a historic dance club and a central hub of Maidstone nightlife (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.kentonline.co.uk ).
Events and Programming
At The Source, the focus is on clubbing and electronic music. The venue is generally open on Friday and Saturday nights (per its own policy) (thesourcebar.co.uk ), with occasional special events on other dates (bank holidays, etc.). Programming typically includes different themed club nights running every week, often promoted by local event collectives. Styles range from techno and house to drum’n’bass and garage. Resident DJs and guest spots by national/international DJs form core lineups. For example, recent line-ups have featured high-profile names: Nic Fanciulli, Eats Everything, Cassy, and other top DJs have headlined events here (www.ents24.com ) (www.ents24.com ). (Notable past bills include an August 2018 line-up headlined by deadmau5 and Nic Fanciulli (www.ents24.com ), and a February 2018 Saved Sundays party with Fatboy Slim, Nic Fanciulli and 30+ supporting DJs (www.ents24.com ).) Special theme nights like “Back to Source” over-30s parties or seasonal raves are common, and promoters often style nights after retro or soul themes as well. In addition to dance nights, The Source occasionally doubles as a large viewing party. Local news noted that it filled with fans watching England’s World Cup and European Championship matches (www.kentonline.co.uk ), showing its versatility. In short, The Source Bar offers frequent electronic music events (often £5–£15 at the door) – for example, one saved-records event in 2016 charged £10 cover (ra.co ) – and frequently brings in both rising local talent and established headliners. Tickets and pricing vary by event: many club nights are around the £10 mark (ra.co ), whereas bigger-name DJ shows might reach £15–20 or more. Overall, visitors can expect regular DJ-driven dance parties every weekend, as well as occasional special events (seasonal raves, anniversary bashes, etc.) that make The Source a cornerstone of Maidstone’s live music calendar.
Tickets and Booking
Advance tickets for The Source can be purchased from the club’s official channels or major UK event sites (please book early, as popular nights often sell out). If an event isn’t sold out, you can usually still get in at the door. The Source’s own information encourages arriving early to queue up for last-minute tickets – entry is possible up until the last admission times (about 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays) (thesourcebar.co.uk ). For example, the club’s website notes that “it’s never too late to get a ticket on the night” by queuing until a ticket holder leaves, and confirms the last-call entry hours (Fri/Sat 1 AM) (thesourcebar.co.uk ). Always bring photo ID – especially for any free tickets – since the club strictly checks that the name on the ticket matches a government-issued ID (thesourcebar.co.uk ). Pricing is event-dependent: smaller club nights often have £5–10 cover, while special headliner nights command higher prices. (As an example, a full-capacity event with Nic Fanciulli and Dubfire in 2016 sold 400 tickets at £10 each (ra.co ).) In practice, if you can’t pre-book, hope to arrive soon after doors open (typically ~10 PM or 11 PM) to join the line. Ticket refunds or exchanges are handled per event promoter policy, so check each show’s terms. Overall, the best strategy for a big show is buying ahead, but The Source generally allows walk-up entries if space remains (thesourcebar.co.uk ).
Seating and Layout
The Source has an open, multi-area layout with no assigned seating. The ground floor is the main dance floor with a large bar on one side (www.kentonline.co.uk ). A secondary dance floor and cocktail area is set at the rear of the venue (www.kentonline.co.uk ), and both of these feed out to a small outdoor patio area. Upstairs is a lounge bar and club room with its own service bar, plus balcony smoking areas overlooking the ground floor (www.kentonline.co.uk ). Because it’s primarily a nightclub, virtually all viewing is standing or leaning; the best positions vary by preference. For those who want to be in the heart of the action, staying on the ground level near the DJ booth gives the fullest audio kick and stage view. The first-floor balcony (overlooking the floor) offers a wider perspective and fresh air for smokers, though the sound is slightly more distant (www.kentonline.co.uk ). Since the club is fairly open, most viewpoints are unobstructed, but corners away from speakers can have muffled sound. There is no formal VIP area or reserved seating – everyone generally has the same open access to the dance floors. If you’d prefer a quieter spot, the rear bar areas or the upper lounge can be calmer. Acoustically, The Source favors a powerful club sound system, so expect booming bass across the dance areas. In summary, judge the “best seat” by your priorities: near the speaker stack for maximum volume and full lighting effects, or up on the balcony for an overview and a break from the crowd. Restrooms (gents, ladies) are on each floor, and a disabled WC is on the ground floor (www.kentonline.co.uk ) (so the first floor’s balcony area is more than just a smoking deck – it also sits beside the main lounge bar and has step-free access behind the DJ booth area).
Getting There and Parking
The Source’s city-center location makes it easy to reach by various transport modes. By road it’s at the junction of Earl Street and High Street in Maidstone town center (www.kentonline.co.uk ) (www.skiddle.com ). If driving, nearby multi-storey car parks are the best options. For example, the Fremlin Walk car park (68 Earl Street) offers 760 spaces (www.sabaparking.co.uk ). Another is The Mall car park on Union Street West (part of the Trinity Centre), though note it has a 1.95 m height limit (www.visitmaidstone.com ). Both are paid lots with pay-on-exit and accept cards only (www.sabaparking.co.uk ). Several Maidstone Borough Council short-stay lots (e.g. Lockmeadow, King Street) lie within a 5–10 minute walk. Parking is enforced daily (including evenings and holidays) per council rules (maidstone.gov.uk ), so make sure to pay if parking on-street or in council lots. Blue Badge holders are permitted up to 4 hours free parking in any designated disabled bay (maidstone.gov.uk ). Note that many local streets have pay meters or restrictions, so the multi-stories above are easiest. Rideshare/taxi drop-off is convenient on King Street (just steps away), where you can be let out near Rose Yard. Public transport is excellent: buses from all over Kent terminate in Maidstone, and two local bus stops (Royal Star Arcade or King Street) are only a 2–3 minute walk from The Source (moovitapp.com ). Moovit’s data lists dozens of routes (X3, 25A, 58, 60, 71, 72, etc.) stopping there (moovitapp.com ). Rail travelers should use Maidstone East station: Southeastern trains to London or Ashford stop there, and it’s just a few minutes’ walk from Rose Yard (moovitapp.com ). (Maidstone West station is also on Southeastern lines, though about 5–10 minutes farther on foot.) In summary, the club is centrally located, with numerous bus and train options and large modern car parks nearby (moovitapp.com ) (www.sabaparking.co.uk ).
Inside the Venue
Entry is via the ground-floor entrances off Rose Yard. Expect door security with bag-checks and ID checks. Valid photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) is required for everyone – minors are not admitted and the club enforces age 18+ rules. (As an example, the venue explicitly states you must carry matching ID for each ticket (thesourcebar.co.uk ).) Once inside, The Source’s atmosphere is typical of an underground club: low lighting, bass-heavy sound, and a lively dance crowd. There are multiple bars: a large service bar on the ground floor and another on the first floor. Drink prices are standard for UK nightclubs (draft beer, bottled cider, spirits and cocktails, etc.). There is no full kitchen, so food is limited to snacks or sweets if available; plan to eat beforehand or at nearby eateries. Inside seating is minimal (mostly high stools around the bar); it’s mainly standing/dancing space. Practical facilities include restrooms on each floor (with separate men’s/women’s) and a disabled restroom on the ground floor (www.kentonline.co.uk ). If you need to check a coat or larger bag, be aware that space is tight and cloakroom service (if any) is very limited. The club braces against theft (follow your belongings) and prohibits outside alcohol. Free water may be available at the bar or by request for safety. There is no dedicated Wi-Fi for guests (mobile coverage is intermittent indoors), so plan accordingly. Look out for on-site signs about camera or phone usage: usually personal photos are OK, but flash photography or professional cameras might be discouraged. In summary, the interior is a classic dance club set-up: queue for entry (thesourcebar.co.uk ), then roam the two levels at your leisure – the lower area for dancing and the upper for mingling or smoking (balcony) (www.kentonline.co.uk ). Staff will check tickets/IDs and enforce house rules, so dress code is generally casual club attire (avoid hats or overly bulky jackets). Finally, coats and scarves are best kept with you around your waist or in a small bag, as there are no elaborate coat-checks inside.
Nearby Amenities
The Source sits amid Maidstone’s town center shops, pubs and restaurants. The immediate Rose Yard area has a few cafes and takeaway spots (although many food outlets here close by late evening). For a wider dining choice, head up Earl Street and Week Street: you’ll find curry houses, pizza bars, gastropubs (like The Market House), and chain eateries (Fremlin Walk via Earl Street has outlets like Wetherspoons, Nando’s, etc.). Gabiels Hill (off Earl Street) also has several pubs and cafes. In short, there’s no shortage of pre-drink or dinner spots – just check opening times (many close by 10pm). For late-night snacks, consider the high street kebab shops or a Sainsbury’s Local (near the train station) which stays open relatively late. As for accommodations, Maidstone has several hotels a short drive away. The nearest budget options include a Travelodge near the town, and a Holiday Inn or Premier Inn near the river. In general, staying within Maidstone (rather than outlying Kent villages) makes sense if you’ll be out late. Public transportation hours can end around midnight, so if you’re not local, enjoy a local B&B or taxi home (some evening buses do run for central Maidstone). Overall, many visitors combine a night at The Source with dinner on Earl Street or Fremlin Walk, and either head home by taxi or stay overnight at a nearby hotel.
What Makes This Venue Special
The special character of The Source Bar stems from its storied history and local prominence. For over two decades it has been Maidstone’s premier dance club; local reviewers even credit it as “the dance music institution it is today” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Legendary moments are part of the lore: for instance, BBC Radio 1’s Pete Tong once broadcast live from The Source booth, and world-renowned DJs have remarked positively about their gigs here. Notably, the venue helped launch UK talent – DJ/producer Nic Fanciulli “began his career here," promotional material claims (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), and fellow Toolroom boss Mark Knight cut his teeth on these decks. Even Carl Cox said a 2010 set at The Source was among his best gigs ever (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). These anecdotes highlight the club’s impact on electronic music. It also has special local traditions: fans gathered here to watch football matches (the World Cup and European Championships were shown to packed crowds (www.kentonline.co.uk )), turning the club into a sports party venue on big match days. Architecturally, the two-tier design with a smokin g balcony and multiple bars is distinctive for a club of this size, giving The Source an intimate yet dynamic feel. Over the years it has adapted with the times – updating sound/lighting gear and interior décor – while maintaining an underground vibe. Culturally, it draws partygoers from across Kent (and even London commuters) because it regularly books big acts and hosts diverse dance-nights. In summary, both long-time locals and visiting artists rave about The Source’s atmosphere: it’s a place where cutting-edge music meets community energy. The club’s uniqueness lies in that blend of top-rated DJs, loyal local crowd, and its role as a town-centre nightlife hub (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Source is ground-level at Rose Yard entrances, with a disabled restroom on site (www.kentonline.co.uk ). Wheelchair users can access the main floor, though note the narrow passages. Blue Badge parking is available free (4 hours max) in council lots nearby (maidstone.gov.uk ). For special needs (e.g. hearing loops), call ahead since it’s primarily a late-night club without listed accessibility features beyond the toilet. What to bring: Carry valid photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) for each guest, as it is checked against tickets (thesourcebar.co.uk ). Bring enough cash/card for drinks and any cloakroom fee (if offered). You may want earplugs for loud music and comfortable shoes for standing. Since it’s a club, avoid large bags or prohibited items (some entry lines ban big backpacks). Leave weapons or illicit substances at home – strict security and searches are in force. Dress code: The vibe is generally smart-casual clubwear. Familiar club rules often apply (no sports shirts, no hoods up, no hats covering eyes). If in doubt, dress a little smart and you’ll fit right in. Photography/Phones: Personal phone pictures are usually fine, but cameras with big lenses may be turned away. No flash photography on the dance floor. Always respect other patrons’ privacy. Age restrictions: All nightclub attendees must be 18 or over. On some theme nights (like an Over-30s party), additional age limits apply as advertised. Arrival: Getting there early (around 10-10:30pm) is wise, especially for popular DJs. Doors often close (last entry) around 1am (thesourcebar.co.uk ), so plan accordingly. Avoid: Common mistakes include arriving too late (you may miss the event or face long queues), and bringing large prohibited bags. Also, be patient with the queue and door staff – lines move steadily. Last-call bars may exist late at night but expect reduced service after 3am. Amenity tips: The club has bars but no kitchen. It’s good to eat beforehand or at nearby restaurants on Earl Street/Gabriel’s Hill. Coat/drop-off service is minimal; if you need to store a jacket, do so early and keep belongings secure. Use the nearby toilets if the club restrooms become busy. After the show: Closest train (Maidstone East) may stop around midnight; have a taxi or arrange a late bus if staying past that. Taxis queue near the High Street.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Source Bar?
The indoor capacity is licensed for about 600 people . The venue also has permissions to host up to 1,300 people for outdoor events (www.kentonline.co.uk ). Note that a lively weekend crowd often approaches this limit, so popular nights can fill up quickly.
What kind of events and music can I expect at The Source Bar?
The Source Bar hosts primarily electronic dance parties, especially on Fridays and Saturdays (thesourcebar.co.uk ). Expect house, techno, drum’n’bass and similar genres from both local and international DJs. Regular weekly club nights have varied themes (e.g. techno night, garage night, or specialty parties like retro / soul nights). They sometimes hold special events too – for example, a Saved Records showcase headlined by Nic Fanciulli was done for only £10 tickets (ra.co ). In short, if you like dance music clubs, The Source is a typical fast-paced club environment with DJs spinning until late.
How and when can I buy tickets for shows at The Source?
Advance tickets are available online some weeks before each event (check official listings or the venue’s announcements). If a show isn’t sold out, you can often buy door tickets up until last entry (1:00 AM on Friday/Saturday) (thesourcebar.co.uk ). The venue even encourages queuing late: according to the club, “you can either arrive and queue until a ticket holder leaves, or you can buy tickets on the night up until last entry” (thesourcebar.co.uk ). Just remember to bring a matching photo ID for each ticket (thesourcebar.co.uk ). In general, it’s safest to book early to guarantee entry, but door sales are commonly offered for many events.
What is the dress code and ID policy at The Source?
There is no strict uniform dress code, but guests typically wear smart-casual club attire. Avoid sportswear or overly casual items (e.g. baseball caps turned backward), as door staff may enforce a tidy nightclub style. Very importantly, bring valid photo ID for everyone (passport or driver’s licence) to prove age. The club strictly enforces its 18+ policy – minors are not admitted – and any ticket (including free entry tickets) must match the name on the ID (thesourcebar.co.uk ). Practical tip: carry a small bag or pocket for your essentials, since large backpacks might be disallowed or searched.
Are there seating options or VIP sections?
The Source is mainly standing room – it has an open dance floor on each level and only stool seating around the bars. There is no reserved seating or traditional VIP boxes. Some DJs or promoters might cordon off areas upstairs or offer bottle service if arranged, but generally it’s mix-and-mingle. For a “VIP” experience, you can arrive early to claim a spot at the raised balcony or near the DJs. Otherwise everyone shares the floor freely.
Where is The Source Bar located and how do I get there?
The Source Bar is at 4-6 Rose Yard, Maidstone ME14 1HN (www.skiddle.com ) (www.visitmaidstone.com ). It’s tucked just off Earl Street in the town centre (between Earl Street and High Street (www.kentonline.co.uk )). By public transport, Maidstone East railway station is only about a 5-minute walk (Southeastern trains from London/Ashford) (moovitapp.com ). Many bus routes serve nearby stops (the Royal Star Arcade and King Street stops are just 2–3 minutes away (moovitapp.com )). If driving, nearby car parks include the Fremlin Walk multi-storey (760 spaces at 68 Earl Street (www.sabaparking.co.uk )) and The Mall multi-storey (height 1.95m limit) (www.visitmaidstone.com ). Street parking is mostly pay-and-display – note all town car parks enforce charges daily (maidstone.gov.uk ). Taxis and rideshares can drop off on King Street immediately outside the venue.
Is The Source Bar wheelchair accessible?
The ground floor has level access from Rose Yard, and there is a disabled restroom on that level (www.kentonline.co.uk ). However, keep in mind this is a nightclub with narrow passages and packed dancing areas, so maneuvering space may be limited. There is no step-free access reported up to the first floor. For parking, Blue Badge holders can use disabled bays in nearby council car parks free for up to 4 hours (maidstone.gov.uk ). If in doubt, you may wish to call the venue in advance to discuss special assistance.
Are there bars, food, and restrooms at The Source?
Yes. The club has multiple drink bars – at least one on each level – serving beers, spirits, cocktails and soft drinks. No full kitchen means food is limited; expect only basic bar snacks. Public restrooms are provided on both floors (separate men’s and women’s) plus a disabled WC on the ground floor (www.kentonline.co.uk ). There is typically no large cloakroom, so keep coats with you. Service is card and cash, and note prices are typical trendy-club prices (drinks are not cheap).
Can I use public transport late at night from The Source?
Public transport is available but limited late. Maidstone East train has evening services but check last train times (usually around midnight). Buses typically run until around 11–12pm – the last buses from town are around midnight on weekends. After that, taxis or ride-shares are the safest option. Many fans pre-book a taxi or get a group ride back, especially if the club night is going past midnight. Plan your trip home in advance if you’re staying late.
Is smoking allowed inside or outside?
By law no one can smoke indoors. However, The Source provides outdoor/smoking areas: notably the first-floor balcony is a designated smoking area (www.kentonline.co.uk ). You may step outside to Rose Yard or use that balcony for cigarettes. Just be aware that security may not let you re-enter if it’s very late, so time any smoke breaks carefully.
What about parking fees near The Source?
Parking in central Maidstone is mostly paid. The large private car parks (Fremlin Walk, The Mall) charge standard rates (eight hours for around £6–£10 typically). All council car parks charge daily, including nights and holidays (maidstone.gov.uk ). Street parking meters also enforce daily. As mentioned, if you have a Blue Badge you get free parking in any marked disabled bay (up to 4 hours) (maidstone.gov.uk ). Otherwise budget for a parking fee, or use a taxi/ride-share to avoid it.
Is The Source Bar suitable for groups or parties?
Yes, it’s a popular spot for group nights out. There’s plenty of room for groups to stand together on the dance floor. For very large groups (10+), it’s wise to arrive early together. The club does not typically do private rooms, but you can often claim a corner or section of the bar as a group. Some parties may choose to rent the entire venue, but under normal scheduling it’s communal. Drink orders can be done as a tab at the bar for convenience. Overall it’s definitely a group-friendly club.
