10 Exciting Things To Do In Ashford: A Local's Guide

Do you ever find yourself bored in Ashford? Whether you're a tourist or a local, it can be difficult to know where to go and what to do. Fear not, because we've rounded up 10 of the most exciting things to do in Ashford that will keep you entertained and engaged. From exploring stunning natural beauty to indulging in delicious local cuisine, this guide has it all. So put on your walking shoes or grab a fork, and let's dive into the best things to do in this charming town.

Walk or cycle through the picturesque countryside surrounding Ashford

If you're looking for a way to enjoy the natural beauty of the English countryside, Ashford is the perfect destination for you. With its stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque villages, the town offers endless opportunities to get outside and explore.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Ashford is by taking a leisurely walk or cycling tour through the surrounding countryside. The area is dotted with scenic trails and paths that offer a variety of landscapes and vistas.

One of the most popular routes is the Ashford Green Corridor, a beautiful network of paths and cycleways that stretches for six miles along the River Stour. This tranquil green space offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the town and provides a home for an abundance of wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and a variety of waterfowl.

The Great Stour Way is another fantastic option for avid walkers and cyclists. The 3.5-mile trail follows the river from the heart of Ashford to the picturesque village of Wye. This idyllic route takes you through rolling farmland, tranquil water meadows, and ancient woodlands, and offers a great opportunity to soak up the natural beauty of the area.

If you're looking for something a little more challenging, the North Downs Way is a 153-mile long-distance trail that runs through the heart of Ashford. This scenic route takes you through some of the most stunning countryside in the South of England, with rolling hills, meandering rivers, and breathtaking views across the Kentish Weald.

Whatever your level of fitness or expertise, there's a walk or cycle ride for you to enjoy in Ashford. So why not pack a picnic, grab your bike or walking shoes, and immerse yourself in the glorious natural surroundings of this beautiful town?

Visit the Ashford Designer Outlet and treat yourself to some bargains

Ashford, a town in Kent, England, is a beautiful place to visit for those who love shopping. The town is home to many shopping centers, but the most popular one among them is the Ashford Designer Outlet. With over 80 stores selling designer brands, the outlet is a must-visit for any savvy shopper looking for designer bargains.

The Ashford Designer Outlet boasts of famous brands such as Adidas, Barbour, Calvin Klein, Coach, Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, Nike, Ted Baker, Tommy Hilfiger, and many more. Here, you can find anything from designer clothes, shoes, handbags, and jewelry, to home decor and tech accessories, all at discounted prices of up to 60%.

The shopping experience at Ashford Designer Outlet is unique and welcoming, with a stylish environment designed to make you feel at home. The outlet has plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can grab a quick bite or relax and enjoy a meal after a day of shopping.

What makes the Ashford Designer Outlet even more attractive is its location. The outlet is situated in a beautiful setting, surrounded by the Kent countryside. With easy access from the M20 motorway and plenty of free parking spaces, it's an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend break.

Apart from shopping, the outlet is also home to many events and promotions throughout the year. These events offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy live music, entertainment, and themed events while they shop.

In conclusion, the Ashford Designer Outlet is a shopper's paradise, offering a wide range of designer brands at discounted prices. It's an ideal location to treat yourself to some bargains and experience the unique shopping atmosphere, all in a beautiful countryside setting. Plan your visit today and discover why the Ashford Designer Outlet is the go-to destination for designer shopping in Kent!

Enjoy an afternoon at the Ashford Farmers Market, a vibrant showcase of local produce

If you're in the mood for fresh and tasty local produce, then there's no better place than the Ashford Farmers Market. This vibrant showcase of local vendors and farmers provides a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and other artisanal products that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Located in the heart of downtown Ashford, the Farmers Market is a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. It's held every Saturday from 9am to 1pm, rain or shine, and offers a fantastic selection of produce that varies depending on the season.

In the summer months, you can expect to find fresh berries, peaches, and plums, as well as delicious vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, and sweet corn. Fall brings a bounty of pumpkins, squash, and crisp apples, while winter offers hearty root vegetables, winter squash, and citrus fruits.

Aside from the fresh produce, there are also plenty of other items for sale at the Farmers Market. You'll find artisans selling handmade crafts, baked goods, and even locally-made wines and other specialty foods.

But it's not just about the shopping; the Ashford Farmers Market is also a great place to spend an afternoon. You'll find live music, cooking demonstrations, and even children's activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Visitors to the Farmers Market praise the friendly vendors and the quality of the products available. Many say that it provides a much-needed alternative to the supermarkets, giving them access to fresh, healthy food while supporting local businesses at the same time.

So if you're looking for a fun and delicious way to spend an afternoon in Ashford, be sure to head down to the Farmers Market. With its friendly vendors, high-quality products, and lively atmosphere, it's sure to be a highlight of your visit to this charming New England town.

Discover the history of the town at the Ashford Museum

Ashford is a quaint town in the county of Kent, England that has a rich and colorful history. One of the best ways to learn about the town's past is by visiting the Ashford Museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the development of Ashford over the centuries.

Located in the heart of the town, this award-winning museum boasts a comprehensive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Ashford from its humble beginnings to the thriving community it is today. Visitors are greeted with welcoming staff members who are passionate about teaching others about the town's history.

The museum is housed in two separate buildings - one of which is a beautiful 17th-century Grade II listed building, making for a memorable visit in itself. The exhibits are arranged chronologically, taking visitors on a journey through time from the agricultural settlement that existed in the 12th century to the industrialized town of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Visitors will be able to explore various exhibits which include an interactive collection of tools and equipment that were used by local tradespeople, such as blacksmiths and tanners, to craft their wares. The museum also houses a collection of clocks and timepieces that date as far back as the early 1700s, giving visitors insight into how people kept time in the past.

One of the standout exhibits is the recreation of a 19th-century coaching inn, complete with the original furnishings. Visitors can walk through the rooms and learn about the role that the coaching inns played in the development of Ashford as a trading hub.

For those wondering about Ashford's role during the Second World War, the museum offers an exhibit on the town's involvement in the war. Visitors can learn about the important role that Ashford played in housing refugees and hosting military bases during the conflict.

The Ashford Museum is also home to a gift shop that sells souvenirs and locally produced crafts, making it the perfect place to pick up a unique and meaningful gift.

Overall, the Ashford Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the rich and engaging history of this charming town. It offers a unique perspective on how the town grew and developed over time and is sure to leave visitors with a newfound appreciation for Ashford's unique heritage.

Explore the nature reserve at Conningbrook Lakes

If you're someone who loves exploring nature reserves, then you need to check out Conningbrook Lakes in Ashford. Located just outside of the town, this nature reserve is an excellent place to unwind and commune with nature.

Conningbrook Lakes is spread over 37 hectares of land and is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plants. The reserve is situated around a pair of former gravel pits, with one of the lakes offering angling facilities. The lake is full of a variety of fish, including carp, bream, and tench, and it is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts.

If you're not interested in fishing, there are plenty of other things to do within the reserve. You can go for a stroll on one of the many walking trails, or take your bike for a ride on the dedicated cycle paths. There are also plenty of benches and picnic spots dotted around the reserve, so you can take a break and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Conningbrook Lakes is also an excellent location for birdwatchers. You can observe a variety of bird species, including the Great Crested Grebe, Little Egret, and Grey Heron. If you're lucky, you might also spot a Kingfisher darting across the water.

Overall, Conningbrook Lakes is an excellent place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and explore the natural world. With its rich wildlife and stunning scenery, it is the perfect spot to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. So why not plan a visit today and experience the magic of this beautiful nature reserve?

Take a thrilling zipline adventure at Go Ape Bedgebury

If you're looking for a thrilling experience in Ashford, then the Go Ape Bedgebury is the perfect place for you. This adventurous attraction offers a unique zipline experience that is sure to get your heart racing. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about this exciting adventure.

Located in Bedgebury Forest, Go Ape is an activity park that is aimed at those who love outdoor adventures. It offers a range of activities that include zipline, rope course, and other exciting challenges. The zipline course is the main attraction here, and it's a must-try for anyone looking to add some excitement to their day.

To get started on the zipline course, you'll need to sign up and undergo a safety briefing. You'll be given all the necessary equipment to protect yourself, including a harness, helmet, and gloves. Then, you'll proceed to the first platform where your adventure begins.

The zipline course is designed to take you through the treetops, and it consists of multiple platforms that are connected via ziplines. You'll soar through the air as you travel from one platform to the next. Each platform is a different height, so you'll experience different levels of adrenaline as you move through the course.

The entire zipline course is approximately 2.5 hours long, and it includes around 30 different obstacles. However, if you're a bit nervous about heights, the experience might be a bit challenging. Nonetheless, Go Ape Bedgebury is suitable for anyone who is over 10 years old, of moderate fitness, and ideally between 3'3" and 6'5". So, whether you're a beginner or an experienced zipliner, you'll be able to enjoy the course.

Overall, the zipline adventure at Go Ape Bedgebury is a fun and unique experience that is well worth a visit. If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity to do in Ashford, then this is definitely one to consider. So, strap on your helmet and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Enjoy a round of golf at Ashford Golf Club

Characteristic	Description
Name	Ashford Golf Club
Type	Golf club in Ashford, England
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 124
Address	Sandyhurst Ln, Ashford TN25 4NT, United Kingdom
Phone	+44 1233 622655
Hours	Thursday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM Friday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM Saturday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM Sunday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM Monday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM Tuesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM Wednesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM
Profiles

Ashford Golf Club is a beautiful course tucked away in the scenic countryside of Kent, England. With a history dating back to 1888, it has long been a popular destination for golf enthusiasts looking to enjoy a round of golf in peaceful surroundings.

Stretching across 6,352 yards, the course offers a variety of challenges for players of all levels, from the more experienced to beginners looking to improve their game. As you navigate through the rolling landscape, you'll encounter strategically placed bunkers, water features and some of the trickiest greens you'll ever putt on.

But it's not just the course itself that draws players to Ashford Golf Club. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere is what truly makes it stand out. Members and visitors alike are treated like family, with staff who go out of their way to ensure that everyone feels right at home.

And the facilities are just as impressive. The pro shop is stocked with all of the latest gear and apparel, and the clubhouse offers a variety of dining options, from a quick sandwich to a full meal with friends or family. Private function rooms are also available for those looking to host events or meetings.

But perhaps what makes Ashford Golf Club truly special is its commitment to the environment. The course is built on land that has been farmed for centuries, and the club takes great care to ensure that it is maintained in an environmentally sustainable way. This includes measures such as natural water retention and recycling, and the protection of local wildlife habitats.

So if you're looking for a golf course that offers a challenging game, breathtaking scenery, and a warm welcome, be sure to make Ashford Golf Club your next stop. We guarantee you won't regret it!

Sample the local craft beer at the Curious Brewery

Characteristic	Description
Name	Curious Brewery
Type	Brewery
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.2 / 231
Address	The Curious Brewery, Unit 1, Victoria Rd, Ashford TN23 7HQ, United Kingdom
Phone	+44 1233 552525
Hours	Thursday - opens at 12 and closes at 11 PM Friday - opens at 12 and closes at 11 PM Saturday - opens at 12 and closes at 11 PM Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 6 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - opens at 12 and closes at 11 PM
Profiles

Ashford is known for many things, including its picturesque landscape, charming small-town feel, and bustling cultural scene. One aspect of the town that is quickly rising to prominence is its local craft beer, and perhaps the best place to experience it is the Curious Brewery.

Located in the heart of Ashford, the Curious Brewery is a hub of creativity and innovation in the world of craft beer. Founded in 2011, the brewery has quickly gained a reputation for its unique and delicious beers, using locally sourced ingredients to create a range of flavors that celebrate the best of Kent.

One of the most popular ways to experience the Curious Brewery is to take a tour, which includes a tasting session of some of their most popular brews. Visitors can choose from a range of beers, including the refreshing Curious Brew Lager, the smooth and creamy Curious Porter, and the hoppy and aromatic Curious IPA. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing the story of the brewery and its approach to brewing.

Another fantastic way to experience the Curious Brewery is to visit their taproom, which is open to the public seven days a week. Located in a stunningly renovated 19th-century hop warehouse, the taproom is a cozy and welcoming space where guests can relax, chat with friends, and sample a range of beers straight from the taps.

In addition to their core range of beers, the Curious Brewery also offers a rotating selection of seasonal and limited edition beers, which showcase the creativity and versatility of their brewing team. Whether you are a beer lover or simply curious to try something new, there is always something exciting on tap at the Curious Brewery.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in Ashford and looking for a unique and memorable way to experience the local culture, be sure to stop by the Curious Brewery. With its delicious beers, friendly staff, and beautiful taproom, it is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves great beer and great company.

Get up close and personal with wildlife at The Rare Breeds Centre

Characteristic	Description
Name	South of England Rare Breeds Centre
Type	Farm in Woodchurch, England
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 1,638
Address	Woodchurch, Ashford TN26 3RJ, United Kingdom
Phone	+44 1233 861493
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM Monday - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable experience with nature, then The Rare Breeds Centre in Ashford is the perfect destination for you. Located in the heart of the Kentish countryside, the centre is set amidst 100 acres of stunning farmland and offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the UK’s most endangered species.

Established more than 40 years ago, the centre was created to help preserve rare and endangered animals and birds. From large breeds like Gloucestershire Old Spot Pigs to smaller creatures like Dormouse, the centre is home to an unparalleled collection of rare livestock and native wildlife.

One of the key highlights of the centre is the chance to see British wildlife in their natural habitats. The sprawling landscape includes a hedge maze, woodland walks, and meadows, providing ample opportunity to spot animals like badgers, foxes, and many species of birds.

However, the main attraction for visitors is the collection of rare breeds that have been brought to the centre. Among the many species kept here are Tamworth Pigs, White Faced Woodland Sheep, and Bagot Goats, all of which are on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust’s endangered list.

During a visit, you can also join one of the many animal encounter sessions and get up close and personal with the animals. The Keeper Talks offer an informative and engaging experience, explaining everything there is to know about the animals, their habitats and way of life. These sessions run throughout the day, so you won't have to worry about missing any.

The centre is also a great place for kids, with activities like pony rides, and an indoor play barn, which has everything from slides and climbing frames to soft play areas. Additionally, the centre hosts themed events throughout the year, like Easter egg hunts, and Christmas grottos.

In conclusion, if you want to get up close and personal with rare and endangered animals, and learn more about their habitat and lifestyle, The Rare Breeds Centre in Ashford is the perfect place to visit. A trip here offers an unforgettable experience that both kids and adults will treasure for years to come.

Take a relaxing walk along the banks of the River Stour

Ashford is a picturesque town located in Kent, England. It is known for its stunning countryside and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. One of the most relaxing ways to explore the town is to take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the River Stour.

The River Stour runs through Ashford and is a peaceful haven surrounded by lush greenery. Walking along its banks is an ideal way to escape the hustle and bustle of the town centre and immerse yourself in nature. The walk is suitable for all abilities and can be enjoyed by families, couples, and individuals looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

There are several routes you can take when walking alongside the River Stour. The easiest route is the Millennium Walk, which covers six miles of the river flowing through Ashford. It is a well-maintained walkway that will take you through picturesque meadows and charming wooded areas.

If you want a longer walk, the Stour Valley Walk is another option. This route is 28 miles long and stretches from Lenham to Canterbury, passing through Ashford along the way. The walk will take you through beautiful countryside, quaint villages, and breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you will also find several historic landmarks including churches, castles, and mills.

Walking along the banks of the River Stour is not just about getting exercise, but it is also a chance to appreciate the town’s rich history and cultural heritage. Ashford has a fascinating past that dates back to the medieval era. On the walk, you will notice various clues to this history, such as the 13th-century St Mary’s church, which is located on a hill above the river.

In conclusion, taking a walk along the banks of the River Stour is an excellent way to enjoy nature, exercise and appreciate the town's rich history and wildlife. It’s an all-encompassing experience that is suitable for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing and enjoyable afternoon in Ashford, grab your walking shoes and explore the stunning beauty of this charming town.

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