Travel, Tourism, Attractions, Activities and Things To Do in Ashford

Situated in the heart of the Garden of England, Kent, designed by architect Lord Richard Rogers, this is one of Europe's most spectacular shopping destinations. It's conveniently located near Ashford town centre, and adjacent to the International Eurostar station. The centre is also an ideal destination for shoppers heading to or from the cross channel ferry port at Dover.

What to do and where to stay in Ashford

Attractions

Dover To Calais Ferry Crossing...

SeaFrance offers daily services between the UK and France on their cross-channel ferries. Relax as you cruise across to Calais at fantastic value prices.

For more information about tourism in the South East of England, please go to www.visitsoutheastengland.com

Discover the Garden of England...

The area surrounding Ashford Designer Outlet is the heart of the Garden of England. Tranquil countryside, hop gardens, oast houses, picturesque villages and historic buildings give this part of Kent its own unique flavour.

For more information about tourism in the South East of England, please go to www.visitsoutheastengland.com

Biddenden Vineyards and Cider Works (min 15 people)...

Biddenden Vineyard is Kent’s oldest Commercial Vineyard, having been established in 1969.

Ten varieties of grapes produce white, red, rose and quality sparkling wine. Traditional Kentish ciders have also been made here for over 20 years together with farm pressed apple juices. Visitors are welcome throughout the year.

Admission and tastings are free.
For further information contact:
Biddenden Vineyards Ltd
Gribble Bridge Lane
Biddenden, Kent
TN27 8DF

+44 (0) 1580 291726
http://www.biddendenvineyards.com

Port Lympne Wild Animal Park...

Port Lympne Historic mansion and gardens is home to some of the country's most spectacular sights with fifteen and a half acres of landscaped gardens. Beautiful and colourful all year round, it features a Lime Avenue and Magnolia Walk.

There are also various terraces, enclosed gardens, such as the Sundial or Clock Garden and the Chess-Board garden. Port Lympne also has its own fig yard and the largest privately owned vineyard in Kent. Overall, the gardens have a distinctly Italianate flavour. A spectacular view over Romney Marsh and across the Channel, even of the coast of France on a clear day, is obtained from the top of the 125 step "Trojan" stairway. The outer part of the gardens is allowed to grow wild to encourage indigenous wildlife. Group rates available.

For further information contact:
Port Lympne Wild Animal Park,
Port Lympne, Hythe
CT21 4PD.

+44 (0) 1303 234186
www.totallywild.net/groups

Leeds Castle...

Leeds Castle, set on two islands on the River Len in the heart of Kent, has been home to royalty, lords and ladies for over 1000 years.

Visitors are transported through 900 years of the castle’s history; an eclectic mix of period architecture, sumptuous interiors and family treasures waiting to be discovered. Group rates available.

For further information contact:
Leeds Castle,
Maidstone, Kent
ME14 1PL.

+44 (0) 1622 765400
www.leeds-castle.com

Museum of Kent Life...

Kent's award winning Open Air Museum is set in picturesque countryside next to the River Medway.

Home to the county's last coal-fired oast house, a working farmyard, Cobtree Tea Rooms and nostalgic buildings, it's a great day out for all the family to enjoy. Group rates available.

Fascinating facts:
Last hand-picked hop garden in the country
Last working coal-fired oast house in the country
Working farmyard with an award winning Young Farmer's Club
Accessible by The Kentish Lady river boat

For further information contact:
Museum of Kent Life
Lock Lane, Sandling,
Maidstone, Kent,
ME14 3AU.

+44 (0) 1622 763936
www.museum-kentlife.co.uk

Hotels

Hotel du Vin Tunbridge Wells...

Set in one of the historic spa town's architectural landmarks, this Grade II listed sandstone mansion was built as a private residence in 1762. Famous for an extensive and eclectic wine list.

Tunbridge Wells Hotel du Vin and Bistro
Crescent Road
Tunbridge Wells
Kent
TN1 2LY

T: +44 (0) 1892 526455
www.hotelduvin.com

Read's Restaurant with Rooms...

Set in an elegant Georgian manor surrounded by tranquil grounds, with lawns shaded by lofty cedar, weeping willow and chestnut trees.

Read's
Macknade Manor
Faversham
Kent
ME13 8XE

+44 (0) 1795 535344
www.reads.com