Where are Ashford and Tenterden located?

Ashford and Tenterden are located in the heart of Kent, known as the Garden of England. Ashford is a modern market town with excellent transport links, while Tenterden is a picturesque historic town surrounded by countryside and vineyards.

How do I get to Ashford and Tenterden?

Ashford is easily reached by high-speed train from London St Pancras in under 40 minutes. Tenterden is around a 25-minute drive from Ashford and is also accessible by local bus services.

Is 48 hours enough to explore Ashford and Tenterden?

Yes. A weekend is the perfect amount of time to experience Ashford's shopping, dining and outdoor attractions, while also enjoying Tenterden's independent shops, heritage railway and beautiful countryside. Although a longer stay will allow more flexibility

What are the must-see attractions in Ashford?

Popular attractions include Ashford Designer Outlet, Godinton House & Gardens, and nearby wildlife experiences at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve.

What are the highlights of Tenterden?

Visitors love exploring Tenterden High Street, travelling on the Kent & East Sussex Railway, visiting local vineyards, browsing independent boutiques and enjoying the town's historic charm

When is the best time of year to visit?

The area is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer beautiful gardens and vineyards, while autumn brings colourful countryside scenery. Winter is perfect for cosy pubs and festive events.

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48 Hours in Ashford & Tenterden

48 Hours in Ashford & Tenterden

Looking for a weekend away in Kent? Spend 48 hours discovering the best of Ashford and Tenterden, where beautiful countryside, local food and drink, fascinating heritage and unforgettable experiences come together.

From vineyard tours and heritage railways to independent shops, gardens and great places to eat, there’s plenty to see and do. Here’s how to make the most of a weekend in the heart of Kent.

Day One: Discover Ashford

Morning: Start with a taste of Kent

If you’re a keen shopper, make your way to Ashford Designer Outlet, home to more than 100 designer brands. Take your time browsing the stores, stop for lunch and soak up the atmosphere before continuing your adventure.

Afternoon: Explore the countryside

After lunch, escape the town and discover the beautiful countryside surrounding Ashford.

The Kent Downs and surrounding Weald offer plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling and exploring. Take a countryside stroll, discover a pretty village or simply find somewhere peaceful to enjoy the scenery.

For something a little different, visit Godinton House and Gardens and explore its historic house and beautiful grounds.

Evening: Eat, drink and unwind

As evening arrives, it’s time to experience Ashford’s food and drink scene.

Choose from relaxed pubs, independent restaurants and fine dining, with plenty of opportunities to sample local Kent produce. For something special, enjoy dinner at Boys Hall, where seasonal dishes showcase the best of the region.

After dinner, why not catch the latest blockbuster at The Ashford Cinema at Elwick Place?

Then settle into your accommodation and get ready for another day of exploring.

Boys Hall Spring Wisteria by Lettie P Photography

Day Two: Tenterden & the Kent Countryside

Morning: Explore Tenterden

Start your second day in the charming town of Tenterden, often known as the Jewel of the Weald.

Take a stroll along the historic High Street and explore independent shops, cafés and local businesses. Stop for a coffee or perhaps a traditional breakfast before heading off to discover more.

Late morning: All aboard!

No visit to Tenterden is complete without experiencing the Kent & East Sussex Railway.

Step aboard a heritage steam or diesel train and travel through the beautiful Rother Valley. Sit back, relax and enjoy the views as the railway takes you through some of Kent and East Sussex’s most picturesque countryside.

Afternoon: Taste the Weald

After your railway adventure, it’s time for lunch.

Tenterden and the surrounding villages offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy local food and drink. Visit a farm shop, stop for afternoon tea or discover one of the area's vineyards.

Kent is famous for its English wine, and a vineyard tour and tasting is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Discover how still and sparkling wines are made and enjoy a taste of the Kent countryside.

Take a deep breath, slow down and enjoy the scenery — it’s the perfect way to finish your 48 hours

Make It Your Own

The beauty of Ashford and Tenterden is that you can tailor your weekend to suit you.

SEE spectacular gardens, wildlife and countryside.

FIND hidden gems, independent businesses and places you’ll want to come back to.

TASTE local wine, beer, produce and delicious Kentish food.

TRY something completely different, from a heritage railway experience to a cookery course or woodland adventure.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering somewhere close to home, 48 hours is just enough to give you a taste of what makes Ashford and Tenterden special — and leave you wanting more.

Frequently asked questions

Where are Ashford and Tenterden located?: Ashford and Tenterden are located in the heart of Kent, known as the Garden of England. Ashford is a modern market town with excellent transport links, while Tenterden is a picturesque historic town surrounded by countryside and vineyards.
How do I get to Ashford and Tenterden?: Ashford is easily reached by high-speed train from London St Pancras in under 40 minutes. Tenterden is around a 25-minute drive from Ashford and is also accessible by local bus services.
Is 48 hours enough to explore Ashford and Tenterden?: Yes. A weekend is the perfect amount of time to experience Ashford's shopping, dining and outdoor attractions, while also enjoying Tenterden's independent shops, heritage railway and beautiful countryside. Although a longer stay will allow more flexibility
What are the must-see attractions in Ashford?: Popular attractions include Ashford Designer Outlet, Godinton House & Gardens, and nearby wildlife experiences at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve.
What are the highlights of Tenterden?: Visitors love exploring Tenterden High Street, travelling on the Kent & East Sussex Railway, visiting local vineyards, browsing independent boutiques and enjoying the town's historic charm
When is the best time of year to visit?: The area is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer beautiful gardens and vineyards, while autumn brings colourful countryside scenery. Winter is perfect for cosy pubs and festive events.

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Whether you’re local looking for something new, planning a day trip, or visiting Kent for a longer stay, we’ll bring you the best of Ashford & Tenterden.