Things To Do
in Ashford
Ashford is a historic market town in Kent, perched on the northern edge of the North Downs. It blends a lively town center with green spaces and easy access to the surrounding countryside. The town is known for its rail connections, including high-speed services to London, and for a mix of shopping, history, and culture within reach of the countryside.
Visitors can wander markets, gardens, and nearby trails for a relaxed, quintessentially Kentish countryside experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional English fare. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Ashford's historic center, admiring the stunning architecture of St. Mary’s Church. Don’t forget to stop by the Ashford Museum to learn about the town's rich history and heritage.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby bistro that offers farm-to-table dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Afterward, visit the Ashford Designer Outlet for some shopping, where you can find great deals on designer brands. Take some time to relax in Victoria Park, soaking in the serene atmosphere and beautiful landscaping.
As the sun sets, choose a cozy pub for dinner, experiencing the local flavors in a traditional setting. Enjoy live music or a quiz night at the pub for a fun evening with locals. End your day with a peaceful walk along the River Stour, reflecting on the beautiful moments of your first day in Ashford.
Kick off your day with breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for a day of exploration. Head to the Great Stour River for a guided nature walk, where you'll learn about local flora and fauna. Keep your camera ready as you might spot some wildlife along the beautiful riverside paths.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the riverbank, surrounded by nature’s tranquility. After your meal, rent a bike and cycle along the scenic paths of the Stour Valley, soaking in the picturesque countryside views. Stop at the quaint villages along the way, exploring their charm and perhaps grabbing a local treat.
Return to Ashford in the evening and unwind with a visit to a local restaurant specializing in seasonal dishes. Consider trying some craft beers at a nearby brewery, learning about the brewing process from the locals. As the night progresses, find a quiet spot to stargaze, enjoying the serene ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛏️Hotel (mid-range) per night | $70-120 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (local) | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent rail links to London and beyond
- Compact town center with easy access to countryside
- Markets, gardens, and a mix of shopping options
- Not a nightlife hub compared with larger cities
- Markets and shops can vary by season and day
- Some countryside sights require a short drive or bus ride
Places to Visit in Ashford
Visit one of these nice places.
Elegant historic house with formal gardens and a lake; strong light in morning and sunset.
An iconic windmill with brick tower; good for moody sky shots and rural scenes.
Historic town center with timber-framed buildings and a tall church spire for skyline shots.
Open chalk landscapes and rolling fields offering wide countryside shots.
Food in Ashford
Ashford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty meat pie or sausage roll common in Kent's pubs and markets.
Must-Try!
Scones with clotted cream and jam, served with tea in cafés and tearooms.
Coastal influences reach into Ashford with fish dishes at seaside-adjacent venues.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market with fresh produce, meats, and baked goods on market days.
Occasional outdoor events offering a rotating lineup of street food vendors in town-centre settings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say please and thank you; queues are generally orderly and respected.
Respect personal space and maintain quiet in public transport and shops.
Safety
Tipping in Ashford
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, service is included by default in some restaurants; if not, a tip of 5-10% is common; you can round up the bill.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; prepare local currency for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh blooms; showers are common; great for garden photography and countryside walks.
Long days and lots of sunshine; outdoor markets; occasional heat waves; plan for late evenings.
Golden light and harvest colors; misty mornings; showers possible; ideal for landscape photography.
Cool to cold with rainy days; shorter daylight hours; cosy pubs and indoor attractions are good options.
Ashford at Night
Hiking in Ashford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic chalk landscapes, countryside views, and wildlife.
Gentle hills and heathland with several trails.
Airports
How to reach Ashford by plane.
Major international hub about 60-70 minutes away by rail/road from Ashford with frequent direct flights.
Large international airport about an hour's drive away with many destinations and rail connections to London.
Closer to central London; good for short-haul flights; accessible via rail connections.
Small regional airport near Lydd with limited services; closest option for some destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban and commuter families with schools and parks.
People traveling to London or Canterbury for work.
Older residents drawn to quieter countryside and accessible services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular team and amateur clubs in the area.
Summer sport with local clubs and park matches.
Local clubs and school teams participate in regional leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose veggie mains at pubs and cafés; look for veggie pies, pasta, salads, and meat-free options; most places can accommodate with advance notice.
Ask for gluten-free options such as gf pies, salads, and seafood dishes; many venues can adapt with separate prep areas.