Ashford

What does Ashford offer?

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque county of Kent, Ashford boasts a unique fusion of modern urban living and serene countryside charm. Often referred to as the "Garden of England," this bustling market town is surrounded by captivating landscapes, rolling hills and enchanting woodland, providing an idyllic escape for both locals and visitors alike. Ashford's rich history, dating back to the 9th century, is evident in its delightful blend of architectural styles, ranging from medieval churches to the contemporary architecture of the town centre. The vibrant town of Ashford offers an array of entertainment and leisure options for people of all ages. The thriving retail scene includes the popular County Square Shopping Centre, as well as numerous independent boutiques and artisan shops, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. Food enthusiasts will delight in the multitude of restaurants, cafes and pubs, offering a smorgasbord of international and traditional British cuisine. Moreover, Ashford's excellent transport links, including the high-speed train service to London and the Eurostar connecting to mainland Europe, make it an ideal base for exploring the many attractions of the South East of England.

Properties in Ashford

Here are just few of our favourite profiles in this area

Showing 1 to 8 of 68121 properties in Ashford

Top attractions in Ashford

1. Ashford Designer Outlet: A shopping haven featuring over 80 premium brands, Ashford Designer Outlet is the perfect destination for fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike. Enjoy a unique shopping experience with up to 60% off in this beautifully designed space by world-renowned architect Lord Richard Rogers.

2. Godinton House & Gardens: A remarkable historic estate, Godinton House is an excellent example of a Jacobean mansion with later Georgian and Victorian influences. The splendid 13-acre gardens offer a myriad of flora and colour throughout the seasons, while the house showcases antique furniture, fine art, and intriguing stories.

3. Conningbrook Lakes Country Park: A tranquil oasis for nature lovers, this 150-acre park features a variety of habitats, including woodland, meadows, and several lakes. Ideal for birdwatching, picnicking, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, the park also offers water-based activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and sailing.

4. St Mary's Church: An architectural gem, St Mary's Church dates back to the 13th century and boasts a magnificent medieval painted ceiling. The church also houses several striking stained-glass windows, an ancient font, and a fascinating collection of monuments and memorials.

5. Wye National Nature Reserve: Set within the North Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this nature reserve offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, along with a variety of walking trails through ancient woodland and chalk grassland. The area is home to an abundance of wildlife, including rare butterflies, orchids, and birds.

Types of properties in Ashford

17783

Semi-detached

17137

Detached

16044

Terraced

10520

Apartment

4513

Bungalow

968

Maisonette

Best areas to live in Ashford

1. Park Farm: A popular residential area with excellent amenities, including shopping centres, schools, and parks. With its modern housing developments and proximity to local facilities, Park Farm is an ideal location for families and professionals alike.

2. Singleton: A sought-after neighbourhood boasting a range of housing options, from stylish new builds to charming period properties. Singleton offers a peaceful atmosphere, with easy access to green spaces, schools, and leisure facilities.

3. Repton Park: A prestigious development situated in a prime location, Repton Park offers luxury living amidst beautifully landscaped grounds. With its mix of executive homes and apartments, this exclusive area is perfect for those seeking a high standard of living.

4. Kingsnorth: A picturesque village on the outskirts of Ashford, Kingsnorth offers a range of properties, from quaint cottages to modern family homes. With its excellent schools, local amenities, and rural charm, Kingsnorth is an ideal choice for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life.

5. Kennington: A popular residential area with a thriving community spirit, Kennington is home to a variety of housing options, including detached properties and bungalows. Its proximity to top-rated schools, local shops, and parks make it a great option for families.

6. Willesborough: A charming area steeped in history, Willesborough features a mix of period properties and modern homes. With its excellent transport links, amenities, and schools, this neighbourhood is an attractive choice for families and commuters alike.

7. Highfield: An up-and-coming area with a range of new housing developments, Highfield is a great option for first-time buyers and young professionals. Its close proximity to Ashford town centre, schools, and transport links make it a convenient and desirable location.

8. Godinton Park: A well-established residential area featuring a range of property types, from spacious family homes to stylish apartments. Godinton Park is popular with families due to its excellent schools, local amenities, and green spaces.

9. South Willesborough: A vibrant neighbourhood with a strong community spirit, South Willesborough offers a variety of properties, including charming terraced houses and modern developments. With its local shops, schools, and parks, this area is popular with families and young professionals.

10. Great Chart: A picturesque village located just outside of Ashford, Great Chart is a sought-after location for those seeking a more rural lifestyle. With its characterful properties, excellent schools, and local amenities, this quaint village offers the best of both worlds – countryside living with easy access to the town centre.

Best things about living in Ashford

1. Excellent Transport Links: Ashford's strategic location in Kent makes it an attractive option for those who travel frequently. With Ashford International train station, you can easily reach London St Pancras in just 38 minutes, while Eurostar services provide direct access to Paris, Brussels, and other European destinations. Additionally, the M20 motorway and nearby ports facilitate easy drives to the coast or across the Channel.

2. Thriving Retail Scene: Ashford boasts a bustling retail environment, with the popular Ashford Designer Outlet offering numerous high-street and luxury brands at discounted prices. The town centre also features a mix of independent shops, markets, and well-known retail chains, ensuring there is something for everyone's taste and budget.

3. Beautiful Countryside and Outdoor Activities: Surrounded by the idyllic Kent countryside, Ashford offers plenty of opportunities for nature lovers to explore. Be it strolling through the picturesque parks, cycling along the riverside paths, or visiting the nearby Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there are numerous ways to enjoy the great outdoors in and around the town.

4. Rich History and Culture: Ashford has a vibrant cultural scene, with a calendar filled with events such as the Create Music Festival and Ashford Fringe Festival. The town is steeped in history, with landmarks such as the St Mary's Church and Willesborough Windmill offering glimpses into its past. The nearby Canterbury Cathedral and Leeds Castle also make for excellent day trips for history buffs.

5. High-Quality Education: Families in Ashford benefit from access to a range of excellent schools, including grammar and secondary schools that consistently achieve outstanding Ofsted ratings. Furthermore, the town is in close proximity to higher education institutions, such as the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University, providing ample opportunities for continued learning and personal growth.

Drawbacks to living in Ashford

1. Limited Employment Opportunities: Ashford may not have the same range of job options as larger cities such as London or Birmingham. While the town has experienced growth in recent years, it remains primarily a retail and service industry hub, which may be limiting for those seeking diverse and high-paying career opportunities.

2. Public Transport Limitations: Although Ashford has a train station providing connections to London and other major cities, the local bus services can be infrequent and unreliable. This may cause inconvenience for residents who rely on public transportation for daily commutes or leisure activities.

3. Higher Cost of Living: Compared to other towns in Kent, Ashford has a relatively higher cost of living. This includes house prices, rental costs, and general expenses such as groceries and utilities. This may be a drawback for those on a tight budget or looking to save money.

4. Limited Cultural Attractions: While Ashford boasts a few local attractions, such as the Ashford Designer Outlet and the Godinton House & Gardens, it lacks the rich cultural scene found in larger cities. Residents may find themselves travelling to nearby towns or London for a wider variety of museums, galleries, and events.

5. Traffic and Congestion: As Ashford continues to grow and attract new development, traffic and congestion have become more prevalent, particularly around the town centre and key roadways. This may result in longer travel times and increased frustration for residents during peak hours.

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