whats the best train route to take from East Croydon to Maidstone?

Answer 1

You can go via Redhill but it's actually quicker to go via London.

Here's an example of some weekday services:

1.depart East Croydon 08.48 arrive London Bridge 09.07
depart London Bridge 09.17 arrive Maidstone 10.07

2. depart East Croydon 09.14 arrive London Victoria 09.33
depart London Victoria 09.48 arrive Maidstone 10.50

3. depart East Croydon 09.47 arrive London Bridge 10.00
depart London Bridge 10.18 arrive Maidstone 11.05

If you take the 09.47 train or later a cheap day return is £13.60
Before 09.47 it'll be a standard day return for £19.60

Answer 2

Change at Redhill