Experience Ashford and Tenterden tourism brochure 2023

© Stuart Kirk

Your personal invitation

There is always plenty to celebrate here in Ashford & Tenterden.

We’re incredibly proud that the winner of this year’s VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition is none other than the Kent & East Sussex Railway’s Chief Stationmaster Geoff Colvin. So, if you’re visiting Tenterden, do drop into the railway, say hello to Geoff and his team and enjoy a nostalgic steam ride back in time. Check the railway’s website for details of running times and special events.

Hole Park, created by four generations of the Barham family, is also celebrating a significant anniversary –the centenary of the garden which subsequently first opened to the public in 1927. At Hole Park you will discover the most amazing 16-acre garden, all set in a magical parkland setting. This really is a ‘must visit’ and at bluebell time, it’s at its most spectacular.

So, whether you are local or visiting from a little further afield, there’s plenty on offer for a great day out or longer break.

Discover Ashford, a vibrant modern town with international connections, experience the delights of our country town of Tenterden and the rural charm of our historic villages.

With a location that’s second to none, everything is right on your doorstep. With London just 38 minutes by rail and surrounded by beautiful countryside such as the Kent Downs and High Weald and the sea and beaches just a few miles away, there are memories to make and new experiences to try.

Vineyards abound, producing world-class wines, raise a glass and taste the wealth of our local produce, we’re a must for foodies. Find hidden gems, see glorious gardens, heritage railways, amazing animals and experience designer and independent shopping at its best.

© Stuart Kirk

© Alison Miles

Tel: 01233 330383

www.experienceashfordandtenterden.co.uk tourism@ashford.gov.uk

/visitashtent

/@visitashtent

/visitashfordtenterden

Watch our tourism video here: https://youtu.be/FJS1JsxZQ2A

© My Tenterden

Places to Visit

See map on centre pages for venue locations

1 AIMREC – Ashford International Model Railway Education Centre

Immerse yourself in the amazing world of model railways at the Ashford International Model Railway Education Centre. A great place to visit for the whole family.

Tel: 01233 333877

www.aimrec.co.uk

2 Ashford Borough Museum

Telling Ashford’s Story from prehistory to modern times. Open 11am to 2pm, April to end of October. Special openings by arrangement. Free admission, run by volunteers.

View the window displays at our Conservation Annexe at 57 High Street when the Museum is closed.

Tel: 01233 635449 (open hours only)

www.ashfordmuseum.org.uk

3 Ashford Designer Outlet

Discover over 100 of your favourite designer brands at up to 60% less all year round, including Adidas, Hollister, Michael Kors, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren and many more. Just off J10 of the M20, you’ll discover cafes, restaurants, a children’s play area, ample parking and we’re dog friendly too.

Tel: 01233 895941

www.ashforddesigneroutlet.com

4 Ashford Town Centre

From the eclectic independent shops, boutique cinema and great places to eat and drink, there are so many reasons to love Ashford. Find the latest offers, news, competitions and events at Loveashford.com.

Tel: 01233 330321

www.loveashford.com

5 Balfour Winery

A 400-acre hidden gem that combines wine, nature and art to share with guests in a beautiful tasting room, The View. Visit for a free self-guided walk, tasting or book a guided tour. Open 7 days a week.

Tel: 01622 832794

www.balfourwinery.com

6 Biddenden Vineyards

Kent’s original vineyard, established by the Barnes family in 1969, producing award-wining wines, ciders and juices. The vineyard shop is open throughout the year, please see our website for latest information on visiting and tours.

Tel: 01580 291726

www.biddendenvineyards.com

7 Brabourne Vineyard

Boutique, family run vineyard in beautiful North Downs setting. Personal tours and tastings available for prebooked small groups. Luxury holiday cottage with views of the vines also available to rent.

Tel: 01303 814432

www.brabournewine.com

8 Church of England in Tenterden

The Parish Church of St Mildred in Tenterden. A place of historic encounter and quiet prayer. Open daily from 8.45am until at least 4.30pm.

Tel: 07805 840493 / 07888 998874

www.tentroxchurches.co.uk

9

C.M. Booth Collection of Historic Vehicles

Private collection located in Rolvenden, specialising in Morgan cars, 12 on display. 1904 Humber, 1929 Ford, 1929 Morris Van, 1936 Bampton caravan, cycles, motorcycles and motoring memorabilia.

Tel: 01580 241234

www.morganmuseum.org.uk

10 County Square Shopping Centre

Located in the heart of Ashford’s town centre with over 50 stores including Next, JD Sports, New Look and Peacocks, you’ll find a great shopping experience! Convenient parking and shopmobility scheme.

Tel: 01233 634001

www.countysquareshoppingcentre.com

11 Crosskeys Travel

Award-winning local coach operator and independent travel agent teamed with highly experienced travel experts offering day trips, short breaks and worldwide holidays.

Tel: 01303 272625

www.crosskeys.uk.com

12 Curious Brewery

Award-winning beers & ciders from the Curious Brewery based in the heart of Ashford, Kent. Visit the shop, book a brewery tour or join us for a fabulous dining experience at our restaurant overlooking the brewery.

Tel: 01233 528300

www.curiousbrewery.com

13 Godinton House & Gardens

Delightful Jacobean house with a fascinating history. Set in 12 acres of beautiful gardens surrounded by parkland. Homemade teas. Groups welcome. Easy access from M20, free parking. Special events/ courses.

Tel: 01233 643854

www.godintonhouse.co.uk

14 Gusbourne Estate

Enjoy our award-winning wines and beautiful vineyards throughout the year. Book a tour online or drop in to have a taste, a walk or to purchase our wines. Open daily, including weekends and bank holidays, 10am5pm.

Tel: 01233 884680

www.gusbourne.com/tours

15 Hole Park

Less well-known, but highly praised delightful private garden. Open by the same family now celebrating their centenary year.

Over 16 acres with parkland - formal, walled, meadow and woodland gardens with friendly family atmosphere. Light lunches, homemade cakes and cream teas in Coach House.

Tel: 01580 241344

www.holepark.com

16 Howletts Wild Animal Park & Port Lympne Reserve

Enjoy wild days out and spot gorillas, anteaters and elephants at Howletts or visit Port Lympne Reserve to embark on a safari and spot giraffe, bears, three different species of rhino and more.

Tel: 01303 264647

www.aspinallfoundation.org

17 Hukins Hops

Discover the world of hops and their relationships with craft beer in this unique guided tour on a modern working hop farm including a craft beer tasting.

Tel: 01580 292252

www.hukins-hops.co.uk

18 Kent & East Sussex Railway

Climb aboard one of our restored Steam or Heritage Diesel trains. Travel with us along the beautiful Wealden countryside along the 10.5 miles between Tenterden and Bodiam station and make lasting memories as a family. Call or book online.

Tel: 01580 765155

www.kesr.org.uk

19 London Beach Golf Course

This beautiful parkland golf course has a full range of golfing facilities which include a golf course and driving range. Open to the public - all ages & abilities. Memberships available.

Tel: 01580 766279

www.londonbeach.com

20 Made in Ashford

Make crafts, paint pottery and learn skills at creative workshops in The Craftship. Buy gifts, get inspired and support local creative businesses in our shop Made in Ashford.

www.madeinashford.com

21 My Tenterden

Tenterden has a fascinating history, centuries of architecture, excellent shopping, coffee shops, steam trains, museums, come & explore! Spend an hour, a day, a weekend or longer in Tenterden. Find a quiet spot in a café or pub, when the sun is shining sit outside and watch the world go by.

www.mytenterden.co.uk

22 Nightingale Farm Shop

Visit for a range of seasonal, home-grown and locally sourced products, including beer, wine and cheeses plus our own fruit, cider and juices. Find us two miles outside of Tenterden.

Tel: 01580 763938

www.nightingalecider.com/pages/farm-shop

23 Nightingale Cider Co.

Visit our taproom The Watch, or join us for a tour and tasting of our award-winning ciders. Open Fridays and Saturdays from the 21st April. Check out our website for more info.

Tel: 01580 761410

www.nightingalecider.com

24 Oxney Organic Estate

Vineyard and winery making award-winning sparkling and still wines. Tours, tastings and picnics on Saturdays May-September. Please book online.

Tel: 01797 260137

www.oxneyestate.com

25 Rare Breeds Centre

Fun and fresh air for the family with farm animals to meet, falconry displays, wildlife gardens, tractor-trailer rides, playgrounds and woodland trails. Seasonal butterfly tunnel and school holiday events.

Tel: 01233 861493

www.rarebreeds.org.uk

26 Revelation Ashford

Award-winning music and arts venue with a unique atmosphere featuring international artists alongside home-grown talent. Excellent facilities and licensed bar. Available for hire. Full programme details on website.

Tel: 01233 663201

www.revelationashford.co.uk

27 Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

Kent’s world-famous Narrow Gauge Railway, stretching 13½ miles across the picturesque Romney Marsh from Hythe to Dungeness. Cafés, gift shops, picnic areas and play park.

Tel: 01797 362353

www.rhdr.org.uk

28 Singleton Environment Centre

Situated amid tranquil woodland with stunning views over Ashford and thriving wildlife. We operate with reduced effects on the environment and we explore sustainability in all activities. Open daily including the café.

Tel: 07951 343885

www.singletonenvironmentcentre.org.uk

29 Stevenson Brothers

Stevenson Brothers celebrated Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and 40 years of rocking horse making with a replica of her race horse Barber Shop.

Fascinating workshop to visit and horses to ride.

Tel: 01233 820363

www.stevensonbros.com

30 Stocks Windmill

Wittersham’s 1781 post mill on B2082, KCC owned and recently painted. Opened by The Friends, May to September on first and third Sundays, 14.30 –17.00hrs. Small museum.

Tel: 01797 270295

www.kent.gov.uk and search Stocks Mill

31 Tenterden & District Chamber of Commerce

We enjoy membership from a significant number of businesses in the town and surrounding areas. Members include hotels and providers of accommodation, restaurants, pubs and places of interest to visit.

www.tenterdenchamber.org

32 Tenterden and District Museum

Dip into 1000 years of local history, from ship building for the Cinque Ports to recent memories in the 20th Century. A warm welcome is guaranteed.

email: enquiries@tenterdenmuseum.co.uk

www.tenterdenmuseum.co.uk

© John Bransbury

Visitor Parking

For information on parking within the borough of Ashford, please visit www.ashford.gov.uk/parking

Please note that this map is not to scale.

33 Tenterden Golf Club

The club has a challenging course for players of all abilities, attractively-priced green fees, high-value offers for golf societies, Golf Academy and excellent practice area, pro shop, buggy and trolley hire, and well-appointed clubhouse.

Tel: 01580 763987

www.tenterden.golf

34 The Big Cat Sanctuary

The Big Cat Sanctuary is a charity dedicated to the conservation of wild cats. We have four objectives, Welfare, Breeding, Education and Conservation. Our work is helping save some of the planet’s most endangered species from extinction.

Tel: 01233 439150

www.thebigcatsanctuary.org

35 The Chapel Down Winery

Discover our award-winning wines, enjoy the restaurant, shop, herb garden and vineyard walks. We also offer guided tours, gift experiences and the opportunity to lease your own vines. Open 7 days a week.

Tel: 01580 766111

www.chapeldown.com

36 The Cowshed Workshop

A fantastic range of creative experiences from willow sculpture to ceramics, set on a rural farm near Tenterden. Courses run year around and are great for gifts, a day activity with friends or as part of a short break.

Tel: 07971497026

www.cowshedworkshop.co.uk

37 The Spa at Green Farm

Escape to Green Farm and experience nature-inspired wellness in a unique countryside setting. Enjoy single ESPA treatments, bespoke Spa Days, exclusive Yoga classes, or indulge in an overnight Spa Stay.

Tel: 01233 808707

www.greenfarmkent.co.uk/the-spa

38 The Sinden Theatre

Situated within the grounds of Homewood School and Sixth Form Centre, the venue hosts a wide range of events from local amateur dramatic performances and comedy clubs, to dance shows, live music and cinema showings.

Tel: 01580 763826

www.sindentheatre.com

39 UK Electric Bike Hire

UK Electric Bike Centre offers a unique experience to see the beautiful Kent countryside on an electric bike. Carefully designed routes along peaceful backroads, passing award-winning vineyards, pretty villages, various pubs and Sissinghurst Castle and Gardens.

Tel: 07904 287485 / 01622 890300

www.ukelectricbike.co.uk

40 Visit Tenterden

Historic market town, known for its independent shops. Tenterden is the perfect staycation base to explore world class gardens, leading vineyards and stunning countryside. Events: Spirit of Tenterden 30 June –

2 July; Folk Festival 5-8 Oct.

Tel: 01233 330383

www.experienceashfordandtenterden.co.uk

41 Warehorne Vineyard

With panoramic views over the Romney Marshes and surrounded by oak trees, we specialise in red, white and rose still wines. Wine tasting and tours are available from June to September.

Tel: 01233 733838

www.warehornevineyard.co.uk

42 Willesborough Windmill

Fully working windmill built in 1869. Barn café and shop. Open weekend and Bank Holiday afternoons from April to end of October plus Wednesday afternoons in July and August. Special events during the season. Guided tours of the mill.

Tel: 01233 661866

www.willesboroughwindmill.co.uk

43 Woodchurch Hub

Woodchurch HUB/Information Centre is located in the car park in the centre of Woodchurch. Open Monday to Saturday mornings it is an ideal location to begin your exploration of picturesque Woodchurch and its surrounding countryside.

Tel: 01233 861381

www.woodchurchhub.uk

44 Woodchurch Village Life Museum

Exciting museum telling the story of Woodchurch from the Stone Age to today. Open 10am-4pm weekends, Easter to end of October. Open on Summer Bank Hols. Group bookings by prior arrangement.

Tel: 01233 860240

www.woodchurchmuseum.com

45 Woodchurch Vineyard

Taste some of Kent’s finest still and sparkling wine while enjoying stunning views across the vineyard towards Romney Marsh. Guided and self-guided tours available. Wines, lunches and snacks served. Open Thursdays to Sundays 11am – 5pm.

Tel: 01233 860276

www.woodchurchwine.co.uk

46 Wye - Ticketyboo

A homeware and gift shop situated in the lovely village of Wye. Stock is carefully sourced to supply the original and unusual. Visitors to Ashford and Tenterden are most welcome.

Tel: 07739 885609

www.ticketybooshop.com

Fact or Fiction Tours

Discover secret Kent & Sussex with your local Blue Badge Guide. Travel by car, coach or on foot exploring the Garden of England. Contact Sue on Tel: 07546 595803 using www.factorfictiontours.co.uk

Wine Tours of Kent

Let Wine Tours of Kent transport you around the Kent vineyards for a day wine tasting. Visit up to three vineyards in one day! Sit back, relax and enjoy the wine!

Tel: 01580 438012

www.winetoursofkent.co.uk

Places to Eat & Drink

47 Bloss Coffee Roasters

Bloss Speciality Coffee Roastery serves freshly roasted coffee it sources and roasts itself. Drop in for a great coffee and cake. Bloss provides wholesale, workshops and coffee training to the coffee industry and coffee enthusiasts in Kent.

Tel: 07513 987952

www.andbloss.com

48 The Farriers Arms

A traditional village pub with so much more. Our exquisite food reflects the changing seasons and local produce. Private function room and beautiful garden and meadow. Perfect for all occasions.

Tel: 01233 720444

www.thefarriersarms.com

49 Frasers

Frasers, an ‘Award – Winning Eco Estate’ boasting a luxurious restaurant with rooms and sustainable events venue. Frasers is a modern British restaurant using the finest ingredients from our estate or from carefully selected artisan suppliers.

Tel: 01233 756122

www.frasersegerton.co.uk

50 The Little Teapot

The Little Teapot is Ashford town centre’s first family run tearoom, with a 5* food hygiene rating. Specialising in freshly prepared, light breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas and homemade cakes.

Tel: 07391 628848

www.thelittleteapot.co.uk

Hotels

ASHFORD – Ashford International

AA★★★★

Simone Weil Avenue

Ashford

TN24 8UX

Tel: 01233 219988

www.ashfordhotel.co.uk reception@ashfordinternationalhotel.com

LYMPNE – Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve

Aldington Road

Lympne

Hythe

CT21 4LR

Tel: 01303 234112

www.portlympne.com shortbreaks@portlympne.com

TENTERDEN – Little Silver Country Hotel

AA★★★

Ashford Road, St. Michaels

Tenterden

TN30 6SP

Tel: 01233 850321

www.little-silver.co.uk enquiries@little-silver.co.uk

TENTERDEN – London Beach Hotel, Spa & Golf Club ★★★

Ashford Road

Tenterden

TN30 6HX

Tel: 01580 766279

www.londonbeach.com

@TheLondonBeach

Bed & Breakfast

EGERTON – Frasers Award winning eco estate

Coldharbour Farm, Barham’s Mill Road

Egerton, Ashford TN27 9DD

Tel: 01233 756122

www.frasersegerton.co.uk

info@frasersegerton.co.uk

SISSINGHURST – The Milk House

The Street

Sissinghurst, TN17 2JG

Tel: 01580 720200

www.themilkhouse.co.uk

fresh@themilkhouse.co.uk

TENTERDEN – Little Dane Court

★★★★ GOLD AWARD

1 Ashford Road

Tenterden, TN30 6AB

Tel: 01580 763389

www.littledanecourt.co.uk

littledanecourt@gmail.com

Self Catering

APPLEDORE, KENARDINGTON, WOODCHURCH – Ashby Farms Ltd

★★ TO ★★★

Place Farm, Kenardington, Ashford, TN26 2LZ

Tel: 01233 733332

www.ashbyfarms.com

info@ashbyfarms.com

BRABOURNE - Fig Cottage, Brabourne Vineyard

The Street, East Brabourne, Ashford, TN25 5LR

Tel: 01580 720770

www.brabournewine.com

hello@originalcottages.co.uk

DUNGENESS – Coastal Cabins

1 Coastguard Cottages, Dungeness Road, Dungeness, TN29 9NF

Tel: 07711 936099

www.airbnb.com/h/phillidamistral plrwrocket@gmail.com

KINGSNORTH – Broadhembury

Caravan & Camping Park ★★★★★

Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, TN26 1NQ

Tel: 01233 620859

www.broadhembury.co.uk holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk

Self Catering

SHADOXHURST – The Barn at Green Farm

★★★★ GOLD AWARD Church Lane

Shadoxhurst, Ashford TN26 1LS

Tel: 01233 808707

www.greenfarmkent.co.uk team@greenfarmkent.co.uk

STONE CUM EBONY – The Oxney Barns, Oxney Organic Estate Self Catering Accommodation

At Stone Cum Ebony TN30 7JH and at Beckley TN31 6TU.

Tel: 01797 260137

www.oxneyestate.com barns@oxneyestate.com

Self Catering Agencies

BRAMLEY AND TEAL HOLIDAY COTTAGES

From idyllic country houses to seaside retreats, there is something for everyone within our collection of Kent & Sussex properties.

Tel: 01580 232255

www.bramleyandteal.co.uk bookings@bramleyandteal.co.uk

Camping & Glamping

ALDINGTON – Romney Marsh Shepherds Huts

Rushfield

Giggers Green Road

Aldington, Ashford TN25 7BT

Tel: 01233 721800

www.romneymarshshepherdshuts.co.uk info@romneymarshshepherdshuts.co.uk

APPLEDORE – Wheatfields Luxury Glamping

Cliff Marsh Farm

Appledore TN30 7AF

Tel: 07831 328938

www.wheatfieldsglamping.com

wheatfieldsglamping@gmail.com

KINGSNORTH – Broadhembury

Caravan & Camping Park ★★★★★

Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, Ashford, TN26 1NQ

Tel: 01233 620859

www.broadhembury.co.uk

holidaypark@broadhembury.co.uk

Pennington

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Tel: 01233 330383

experienceashfordandtenterden.co.uk