ASHFORD: why this central Kent town is set to be a rising star
Previously a town most known for its fast-track rail service, Ashford is transforming into a hotspot for creatives making the most of a lively scene of shops, restaurants and not forgetting culture. Here’s what we think will put it firmly on the map.
With a much-loved shopping centre, new restaurant and hotel that’s got London critics in a lather (made it into the Michelin Guide in it’s first year of launching) and a multi-million-pound film studio investment – there’s a lot of exciting stuff going on in Ashford. Oh and we’ve not even mentioned the transport links. Here’s why we think this previously under-the-radar town is the one to watch…
LOCATION
Ashford International Station is well-known for its regular high-speed services into London and you can be at St Pancras in only 38 minutes on the high-speed train.
And in the other direction, driving to France couldn’t be easier – with the Channel Tunnel around 15 mins away. Or if you want to staycay, the same short distance away, the Kent coast surrounds you in several directions – Whitstable, Sandwich, Sandgate, Broadstairs, Deal… Take your pick!
EAT
But where will we all eat out? Fear not, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to dining in Ashford. But let’s kick things off in style with the fairly recent opening of Boys Hall, the 17th-century manor house, 5 mins from the International train station and minutes from the town centre.
Attracting discerning locals and Londoners alike, it consists of a timber-framed restaurant, nine gorgeous grown-up bedrooms (more on that later), an oak-panelled pub, a wild country garden and, if you still weren’t convinced, after just a year of opening it’s been added to the Michelin Guide. Put it on your must-visit list.
If it’s good enough for J Rick Stein, it’s good enough for us! Head to Everest Inn, for award-winning Nepalese and Indian food. For you international cuisine lovers, there’s also Buenos Aires Nights Steakhouse (above) and family-run authentic Italian restaurant, Amici. Plus family-favourite, Pizza Express.
You won’t want to miss foodie heaven, Coachworks, open daily with a fab food and drink offering. They have an independent marketplace open one Sunday a month for makers and creatives to showcase and sell their work with live music and lots of fun.
When it comes to casual dining there’s just opened cyclist and walker café in Wye, created out of former sea containers, The Hub. Or specialising in Sri Lankan food is Bank Street Café, get authentic Jamaican food from Jay’s Soul Food or there’s little gem, The Tucked Away Take Away.
There’s even traditional pie and mash from Billy’s and fresh whole foods from Salata‘s with salad boxes, wraps, and jacket potatoes that can be made gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, vegetarian, keto, sugar-free, or oil-free – whatever you’re preference!
BARS & DRINK
For a bit of stylish fun, enjoy a luxury experience set within a traditional Grade II listed building. Itaca’s provides a grand afternoon tea, wine, cocktail, and light dining experience centered around a lit-up pink marble bar, all within an Instagram-able environment.
Situated in the heart of Ashford, find Valerie’s Wine Bar that’ll bring you an extensive range of wines, cocktails – and charcuterie! Or try The Glass House for great food, drink and live music.
Not far in the village of Appledore, you’ll find Gusbourne a boutique English winery. Visit them, explore the vineyards, and enjoy a tasting experience to discover why they are the most awarded English Sparkling producer.
You’re actually spoilt for choice when it comes to vineyards as there’s also Chapel Down, Woodchurch, and Biddenden in the vicinity.
For the ultimate drinking experience, take a tour of the Curious Brewery, making the best beer and cider at its state-of-the-art Brewery in Ashford since 2019.
Or for something more low-key there’s the Low Key Taproom serving craft beers, innovative food, and fab live music, and Matches Sports Bar & Grill found in Elwick Place, the central dining and entertainment space.
SHOPPING
As well as the fast-track rail links, Ashford is best known for its shopping centre which for many is a shopping experience alternative to heading all the way to Bluewater.
McArthurGlen’s Ashford Outlet is THE place to head for discount designer labels – in fact, there’s over 100 designer stores offering savings of up to 60% off on fashion brands here. Think Ugg to Adidas and Kate Spade to All Saints and everything in between (see full list here). So if you’ve got kids or teens, it’s a great holiday or half-term trip.
Of course, this is a time when we’re all looking to do our bit, and shop locally and sustainably – so to counter-balance all that big brand hunting you’ll want to head to Made in Ashford. This is a brilliant base for creative businesses in Kent to sell their products in a collective shop and online. Situated in Park Mall in Ashford the store promotes creativity in a welcoming and inclusive buzzy space.
Other independent stores we love include; The Record Store, home of vintage and vinyl, and a family-run business run by father and daughter duo, Vince and Tahlula. So whether you’re looking for Dr Martens or Led Zeppelin, there’s something for you here.
On the subject of doing your bit and Muddy award winner, The Beehive, nestled in the heart of Ashford Town Centre is a second-hand clothing boutique, helping women feel beautiful and valued. There’s so many treasures to be found in their beautiful store, browse yourself or ask their team for help to find something specific. You don’t wanna miss their popular £2 sales!
Get your flowers for any occasion from Lesley’s Florist, flowers and plants are delivered to their store from Holland every day to ensure freshness. Plus you can browse chocolates, balloons, and a variety of vases.
STAY
There’s no shortage of beautiful stays in and around Ashford, for somewhere to stay slapdash in the town centre is the very convenient Hampton by Hilton and there’s Ashford International Hotel & Spa, both minutes from the International Train Station.
Or circling back to Boys Hall (above), is the impressive 17th-century manor house. We’d recommend resting your head on one of their four-poster super-king-size beds with oak-timbered ceilings and homely vibe. The character is quite literally bulging out of the walls. We’ll take the one with the free-standing tub, please!
An approximately 15-minute drive from Ashford could see you in the idyllic village of Shadoxhurst where you’ll find Green Farm, Kent’s leading countryside farm and well-being estate. Home to a luxury 15th century Farmhouse (above) and self-catered barn accommodation, a boutique spa, and a conservation-focused working farm. Stay here if you’d like a unique rural retreat where you can enjoy ESPA treatments like massage and yoga classes at your peril.
Next on your list should be The Five Bells Inn, you won’t find a more quintessential English country pub than this stunning 16th-century inn overlooking the rolling hills of the North Downs. Find a welcoming pub with excellent cuisine and four eclectic bedrooms, that have been designed to be both striking and luxurious, with copper roll-top baths and crisp white sheets. Take advantage of their Midweek Retreat room offer!
If you’re after a self-catering, home-from-home vibe to spend with family or friends, may we introduce Nook’s Retreats – a collection of 4 recently renovated barns in the heart of Aldington, near Ashford. Tastefully furnished and beautifully finished, each barn offers open plan living, one good-sized double bedroom with ensuite, a private patio, access to a tennis court, and a fully equipped kitchen.
THINGS TO DO
This is an experience you can’t let pass you by, The Kent Cookery School‘s workshops – tried and tested by us! Found in the picturesque setting of the Mersham-le-Hatch Estate. Walk through the cobbled courtyard and discover an idyllic countryside haven. The kitchen is fully equipped with dedicated workstations for up to 12 people and everything you need for the vast selection of courses on offer. Pick up a new skill or hone your craft in their safe hands.
In terms of activities, there’s ten-pin bowling at Hollywood Bowl, or explore an immersive virtual world at Virtual Recreation. Whatever you do, just don’t forget to bring your thinking caps to Pressure Point Escape Rooms – will you make it out in time?
Big movie buff? You’ll want to know about Cineworld with both IMAX and their brand new multi-sensory 4DX extreme cinema with a 270-degree wrap-around screen. If you ever wanted to feel as if you were in the movie yourself, head here and your seat will move so be warned.
For you culture vultures, Revelation sits right at the heart. It’s one of the most vibrant and exciting small venues in the county. Since 2011, the venue has welcomed international musicians, legendary performers, and incredible experiences for the community. We’d suggest booking your tickets for Deptford Northern Soul Club this Feb asap.
The wholesome-at-heart will love a visit to Godinton House, a remarkable country house, dating back to the 14th century. There’s lots to discover from the formal gardens with wild, Italian, and walled gardens and the house with a fine collection of furniture, art, porcelain, and curios. Then tuck into delicious homemade cakes, cream teas, and refreshments in the old Billiard Room.
Surrounded by some stunning Kent countryside Ashford’s rich landscape is a walker’s paradise. From the North Downs to Heritage Trails – check out the best routes locally.
KIDS
For family fun head to, Little Land, a children’s role play centre where every child can use their imagination to create their own world and dream they can be whatever they want to be from a baker, hairdresser, construction worker or even a firefighter.
They won’t be bored at Rare Breeds Centre that’s for sure! Set on a 100-acre farm, the little ones can meet and pet the friendly animals including cuddly rabbits, hamsters, newborn chicks, goats, and horses. And if you’re really lucky, you may even meet a piglet or two. After you’ve finished with the animals you are spoilt for choice with a load of brilliant outdoor activities from the Aerial Assault Course, Big Red Trailer Rides, Tube Maze, and Hil Fort.
To keep up to date with the latest news and events in the town, visit Love Ashford. So whatcha waitin’ for?
Explore our other Travel Guides: Deal, Canterbury and Folkestone.