Ashford

What does Ashford offer?

Discover the charming market town of Ashford in the heart of Kent, UK, where you will be enchanted by its rich history, picturesque landscapes and lively atmosphere. Nestled amidst the serene countryside and affectionately known as the 'Garden of England', Ashford boasts a unique blend of rural charm and contemporary living, making it an ideal destination for a rejuvenating retreat or an exciting urban adventure. Explore the captivating beauty of Ashford as you stroll through its quaint, cobbled streets, dotted with an eclectic mix of historic buildings, modern architecture, and vibrant independent shops. Delight in the town's rich cultural heritage by visiting the fascinating Ashford Borough Museum, or unwind in the idyllic Victoria Park, a lush, green oasis perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Whether you're seeking indulgent culinary experiences, engaging family activities, or a relaxing sojourn amidst nature, Ashford offers an unforgettable experience for all.

Top attractions in Ashford

1. Ashford Designer Outlet: This retail destination offers an impressive selection of over 70 designer brands with significant discounts. The Outlet is perfect for a day of shopping and dining, featuring stylish architecture and a range of eateries.

2. Godinton House & Gardens: A splendid 600-year-old historic house, Godinton offers visitors a chance to explore its impressive rooms, stunning gardens, and peaceful parkland. The estate regularly hosts events, workshops, and exhibitions, making it an excellent visit for all ages.

3. The Stour Centre: This popular leisure facility boasts a range of activities for everyone, including swimming pools, a fitness centre, sports halls, and even a climbing wall. The Stour Centre is the perfect spot for those looking to stay active or enjoy a fun day out with the family.

4. Conningbrook Lakes Country Park: This beautiful park offers a serene escape with its stunning lakes, wildlife habitats, and walking trails. Ideal for birdwatching, picnicking, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Conningbrook Lakes provides a peaceful retreat within Ashford.

5. Ashford Borough Museum: Located in the heart of Ashford, this fascinating museum showcases the rich history of the area, from its Roman origins to the present day. The museum features exhibits on local industries, wartime history, and archaeological finds, offering an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Best areas to live in Ashford

1. Repton Park: A highly sought-after area, Repton Park offers a mix of stylish modern homes and charming period properties. Boasting excellent schools, parks, and local amenities, it's perfect for families and professionals alike.

2. Kennington: Known for its spacious properties and large gardens, Kennington is a popular choice for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque environment. With excellent schools and recreational facilities, it's an ideal place to call home.

3. Singleton: A well-established area with a strong sense of community, Singleton offers a variety of property types, including detached houses, semi-detached homes, and bungalows. The area benefits from local shops, schools, and parks, making it an attractive location for families.

4. Kingsnorth: With its modern housing developments and easy access to Ashford town centre, Kingsnorth is a favourite amongst young professionals and families. The area also boasts several green spaces, including the beautiful Kingsnorth Meadows.

5. Park Farm: Located close to local amenities and with a range of property types, Park Farm is an excellent choice for families and first-time buyers. The area is home to a number of good schools, shops, and parks.

6. Willesborough: A thriving suburb with a mix of traditional and modern homes, Willesborough is popular among families and commuters. The area benefits from excellent transport links, including easy access to the M20 motorway and Ashford International Station.

7. Highfield: An attractive area with a variety of property types, Highfield is perfect for those seeking a balance between town and country living. The area is home to several parks and nature reserves, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

8. Little Burton: This modern development offers a range of stylish properties, suitable for families and professionals. With easy access to Ashford town centre and local amenities, Little Burton is a popular choice for those seeking convenience and comfort.

9. Orchard Heights: A popular residential area, Orchard Heights offers a variety of property types, including detached and semi-detached homes. With excellent schools, parks, and local amenities close by, it's an ideal location for families.

10. South Willesborough: This charming area is home to a mix of traditional and modern properties, as well as beautiful green spaces such as the South Willesborough Dykes. With good schools and local amenities, it's a great place to settle down.

Best things about living in Ashford

1. Excellent Transport Links: Ashford boasts an enviable location with outstanding transport connections to London, Europe, and the rest of the UK. The town benefits from Ashford International railway station, which offers high-speed rail services to London St Pancras in just 38 minutes, as well as regular Eurostar services to Paris and Brussels.

2. Rich History and Heritage: Ashford is steeped in history, with a variety of historic sites and buildings to explore. Ranging from the 13th-century St Mary’s Church to the Grade II-listed Ashford railway works, history enthusiasts will find plenty to admire. Additionally, nearby attractions such as the medieval town of Canterbury and Leeds Castle provide further opportunities for cultural exploration.

3. Beautiful Countryside: The town is surrounded by the stunning Kent countryside, known as the "Garden of England." Residents can enjoy easy access to scenic landscapes, including the North Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the High Weald. Walking, cycling, and horse-riding routes abound, offering ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

4. Vibrant Town Centre: Ashford town centre has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years, resulting in a thriving hub of shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. The County Square Shopping Centre and the Designer Outlet offer a range of high-street and designer brands, while the town's cafes, bars, and eateries cater to a variety of tastes. The Stour Centre, a state-of-the-art leisure facility, offers a gym, swimming pool, and a range of sports activities for residents to enjoy.

5. Quality Education: Ashford is home to a selection of well-regarded schools and colleges, providing high-quality education for children and young adults. The town also benefits from its proximity to the prestigious University of Kent in Canterbury, which offers a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various disciplines.

Drawbacks to living in Ashford

1. Limited Employment Opportunities: Ashford, being a smaller town, may not offer the same range of job opportunities as larger cities like London. This could lead to limited career growth and may require residents to commute to nearby cities for work, which can be time-consuming and costly.

2. Limited Nightlife and Entertainment: While Ashford does have a selection of pubs, restaurants, and leisure activities, the options for nightlife and entertainment are relatively limited compared to larger cities. This may be a drawback for those who enjoy a thriving social scene and diverse cultural events.

3. Public Transportation: Although Ashford has a train station and local bus services, the public transport options are not as extensive as those found in bigger cities. This may make it more challenging for residents to travel within the town or to neighbouring areas without a personal vehicle.

4. Congestion and Traffic: As Ashford has grown in recent years, traffic congestion has become an increasing issue, particularly during peak commuting hours. This can lead to longer travel times and frustration for residents who rely on the roads to get to work or other destinations.

5. Lack of Diversity: Compared to larger, more cosmopolitan cities, Ashford may not offer the same level of cultural and ethnic diversity. This can result in a more homogenous community, which some may find less appealing if they are seeking a multicultural environment with a wide range of international influences.

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