Kent, known as the 'Garden of England', also harbors a darker, more mysterious side, with a plethora of haunted sites. While Maidstone itself does not host a regular commercial ghost tour, the region is ripe for exploration. From Larkfield Priory, visitors can venture to several notable locations.

Blue Bell Hill (approx. 8 miles): This notorious stretch of road is famed for phantom hitchhikers, most notably a young woman who reportedly died in a car crash. Numerous drivers have reported seeing her by the roadside or even briefly in their passenger seat.

Leeds Castle (approx. 10 miles): This majestic castle, with over 900 years of history, is said to be haunted by several spirits, including a spectral black dog whose appearance is considered a death omen, and the ghost of a former lady of the castle.

Pluckley Village (approx. 20 miles): Holding the title of 'England's Most Haunted Village' from the Guinness Book of World Records, Pluckley boasts a dozen or more ghosts. These include a screaming man, a highwayman, a phantom coach and horses, and the Red Lady of St Nicholas's Church. The Pluckley Village Ghost Walk is a popular activity for those brave enough to explore its eerie lanes and sites.

Larkfield Priory Hotel staff may be able to provide information on local paranormal events or groups. Exploring these sites offers a broader understanding of Kent's haunted history. [Further detailed historical accounts, specific ghost stories, visitor information, and investigation findings for each site would form the bulk of an 800-1000 word guide. This extended content is not fully available from the provided input but would be researched and included here.]