History
Deriving its name from the word ash of ash tree and ford from the traditional word for river-crossing, ford, Ashford has been integral in transportation of passengers and goods through England for centuries. The town dates back to 893 AD and is mentioned in the Domesday Book, the survey book created during the Norman Conquest. The development during the 19th century brought 5 railway lines that would pave the path for infrastructure that exists today.
Today, Ashford is a major transportation hub between London and the Kent countryside as well as continental Europe. The Eurostar currently stops at its train station. Ashford was also one of the first cities to be served by a high-speed train network. Therefore, with all this development as well as its proximity to London, Ashford is one of the fastest growing areas in Kent. However, despite modernization, Ashford still retain much of its character as a popular coaching town.
Attractions
The nearby factory shopping outlet centre is a huge draw for visitors as well as passengers who have a few hours to spare between train connections. This shopping centre boasts more than 80 different designer brands sold at a discounted price.
The Kent area is also known for its breweries and vineyards, one of the most well known is Biddeden Vineyards, which produces the Kentish cider that is regularly consumed by locals in the area for over 20 years as well as producing award winning red, white, and sparkling wine.
For a bit of history, visit the Old Grammar School that was built in the 17th century that houses the Ashford museum of local history. The museum has exhibits of famous people connected to Ashford, artefacts recently discovered artefacts highlighting the town's long history, and exhibit that explains the smuggling network that was prevalent in Ashford as well as nearby towns throughout the centuries.
Another popular attraction in this area is the Godinton House and Gardens, which belonged to the Toke family for about 400 years. It was one of the most well preserved estates in the area. The estate is particularly well known for it's gardens and is popular with all ages. Guided Tours are available of the actual house.
Food and Places to Stay
Due to it's strategic location for major transportation links, Ashford has plenty of accommodation to offer. Also, if one is pursuing a quieter vacation with easy access to a larger town with plenty of activities on offer such as Ashford, finding accommodation in the outlying villages is ideal as well as easy to find. Many accommodation options are located in older structures that used to serve other tasks, such as a Post Office. However, many estates in the area have been converted into hotels. There are plenty of traditional Bed & Breakfast guesthouses, hotel chains and self-catering accommodation on offer.
With this wealth of accommodation as well as the growth of the town of Ashford, there are plenty of options for food as well. Also, due to its historical roots as a market town, Ashford regularly has markets throughout the week and fresh produce is regularly offered. In addition to this, there are plenty of restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines to serve locals, tourists and travellers that go through the Ashford International Train Station.
Accommodation in Ashford
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