Our area is a blend of ancient and modern at its very best. Here international rail links, thriving market towns and world-class chefs meet history-rich villages, idyllic countryside and superb local vineyards, giving you a wealth of options to enjoy unforgettable days out in Kent.
For some retail therapy, we’re only 5 minutes’ away from the McArthur Glen Outlet; great for discount designer labels, and we have Ashford’s County Square in the Town centre. If history is more your bag, Ashford’s heritage trail leads down lanes lined with mediaeval, Jacobean and Georgian homes. Nearby is Godinton House – one of Kent’s finest historic estates.
All around Ashford lies bewitching heritage Kent. A centuries-old landscape that’s also home to world-class vineyards such as Chapel Down Winery. Drop by for a tour and tutored tasting.
Tenterden (20 minutes from Broadhembury), the Jewel of the Weald, is great historical town with a tree-lined green and a wealth of independent shops and architectural rarities. Steam along on the Kent & East Sussex Railway, head for 16th-century Smallhythe Place, or make for delightful and photogenic Stocks Windmill.
Nearby, book in for an exclusive experience among 40 big cats at the Wildlife Heritage Foundation or, for a hands on animal experience, visit the beautiful 100 acre farm at the South of England Rare Breeds Centre (just 10 minutes away from Broadhembury and a real treat for children). For all train enthusiasts, we recommend the Ashford Borough Museum, where visitors can explore Ashford’s fascinating railway heritage and history under one roof.
Walkers love historic Wye, home to the New Flying Horse inn. Fifteenth-century Chilham often doubles as a movie set. Pluckley is quintessential Kent: ITV’s The Darling Buds of May was filmed here; it also offers a feast of local produce at Elvey Farm. Rolvenden is home to Lutyens-designed Great Maytham Hall. Biddenden features gorgeous Kentish half-timbered buildings; take in the Michelin-starred The West House, and Biddenden Vineyards, while you’re there.
Hike it off on stunning trails: the North Downs Way, Pilgrims Way, Greensand Way and Saxon Shore Way, wind down beside landscapes that are packed with Kentish apples, pears and cherries, peppered with nature reserves (the SSSIs of Hothfield Heathlands and Orlestone Forest), and dotted with ancient woodland – such as Henry VIII’s old hunting ground, Kings Wood at Challock.
Discover more about the area on the Visit Ashford and Tenterden, the My Tenterden, or the Biddenden websites.