A concert hall was erected in 1869 using old stone columns from the former market site. The hall was renamed the Hazlitt Theatre after William Hazlitt, a local man who found fame as an essayist and is widely regarded as the founder of modern dramatic criticism.

Maidstone entertainment was viewed as the rural alternative to London's West End. Hazlitt's father - also William - was a Preacher in Maidstone's first non-conformist church dated 1736, which is on the right of Market Buildings.

Situated behind the Hazlitt Theatre in Market Buildings, the Corn Exchange was built in 1835.  It now houses a shopping arcade for specialty boutiques and The Exchange, a hall for concerts and performances. 

Today the Hazlitt Arts Centre offer a varied and exciting programme ranging from contemporary drama, ballet and opera to mainstream and alternative comedy, children's drama and the traditional Christmas pantomine.

View Hazlitt Art Centre Information