Find
FIND: Discover More in Ashford & Tenterden
Sometimes the best experiences are the ones you find along the way.
From beautiful gardens and ancient woodland to steam trains, fascinating heritage and unexpected treasures, Ashford and Tenterden are full of places waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re exploring for the first time or looking for something new close to home, take a little time to find something different.
Find beautiful gardens
Step away from the everyday and find a moment of tranquillity at Godinton House and Gardens. Set within 12 acres of peaceful gardens and surrounded by ancient parkland, it’s a wonderful place to explore, with beautiful seasonal displays, mature trees and plenty of inspiration for garden lovers.
With events, courses and workshops taking place throughout the year, there’s always something new to find.
Find craftsmanship and tradition
In the village of Bethersden, find a truly unique piece of Kent craftsmanship at Stevenson Brothers. Famous for their beautifully handmade rocking horses, the family business has created pieces for clients around the world, with every horse made by hand and crafted with remarkable attention to detail.
It’s a chance to discover a little-known local story and see traditional craftsmanship brought to life.
Find your way back to nature
Looking for somewhere to slow down? Find peace among ancient woodland and meadow pastures at Green Farm.
With a historic 15th-century farmhouse, self-catering accommodation, a boutique spa and a conservation-focused working farm, this countryside estate offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature. Listen for nightingales, explore the landscape and find a quieter pace of life.
Find adventure on the railway
All aboard!
Find a different way to experience the Kent and Sussex countryside with The Kent & East Sussex Railway. Climb aboard a steam or heritage diesel train and journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the area.
For even more adventure, head to Bodiam Boating Station for a boat trip — and, of course, find a castle along the way.
Find stories from the past
At Smallhythe Place, find the fascinating world of Victorian actress Ellen Terry. This beautiful 16th-century timber-framed house was once her home and is now home to an intriguing collection of theatrical memorabilia and personal objects reflecting her remarkable life and career.
It’s a chance to step inside a piece of theatrical history and discover a very different side of Kent’s heritage.
Find history along the water
Stretching for 28 miles from Hythe to Cliff End, the Royal Military Canal is an extraordinary piece of military history — and a wonderful place to explore on foot or by bike.
Built between 1804 and 1809 as a defence against a possible invasion by Napoleon, the canal is now a peaceful route through the Kent and East Sussex landscape.
Keep your eyes open as you explore and see if you can find one of the historic pillboxes along the canal path.
Find dinosaurs in Kent
Fancy going back even further in time?
At Port Lympne, find prehistoric giants in the UK’s largest dinosaur forest. Come face to face with life-sized dinosaurs including T. rex, Diplodocus, Stegosaurus and Pterodactyls for an experience that’s sure to capture the imagination of visitors of all ages.
Find your next adventure
And there’s still more to find.
Discover museums and heritage sites, uncover local stories, explore the countryside or simply take a different route and see where it leads. With so many experiences tucked away across Ashford, Tenterden and the surrounding area, you never know what you might find next.
So, what will you FIND?
Start exploring Ashford and Tenterden and uncover somewhere new today.
Frequently asked questions
- Where can I stay in Ashford and Tenterden?
There’s accommodation to suit a range of trips and budgets, including hotels, country houses, B&Bs, self-catering properties, holiday cottages and unique countryside stays.
- When is the best time to visit?
There’s something to enjoy throughout the year. Spring brings gardens and blossom, summer is ideal for outdoor adventures and vineyard visits, autumn showcases Kent’s orchards and countryside, while winter brings seasonal events, cosy pubs, festive markets and Christmas experiences.
- Where can I find more inspiration for my visit?
Explore the Experience Ashford & Tenterden website for ideas on places to visit, things to do, food and drink, accommodation, events and experiences.
- What is the Kent & East Sussex Railway?
The Kent & East Sussex Railway is a heritage railway running through the beautiful Rother Valley. It offers visitors the chance to experience a traditional steam or diesel railway journey through the Kent and East Sussex countryside, as well as special events and dining experiences.
- Can I cycle around Ashford and Tenterden?
Yes. The quiet country lanes and countryside surrounding the towns are ideal for cycling. Visitors can also hire e-bikes and explore self-guided routes through the Weald of Kent.
A little inspiration, straight to your inbox.
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.
