Experience Ashford & Tenterden Tourism Brochure 2022

Ashford & Tenterden

Places to Visit & Where to Stay & Eat

© Philip Hinton of Ashford Photographic

www.experienceashfordandtenterden.co.uk

Visiting in 2022

T

here’s certainly plenty to celebrate this year. The Lonely Planet has ranked Kent’s Heritage Coast at No 4 on their list of the world’s best regions to visit – ‘Best in Travel 2022’. And it’s right on our doorstep.

It’s also Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and we’re particularly proud of the Stevenson Brothers here in Bethersden who, over the last forty years, have created the most beautiful handmade rocking horses for Her Majesty the Queen.

‘Staycations’ continue to go from strength to strength and 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 enjoy 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, 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.

Her Majesty the Queen received her Limited Edition Diamond Jubilee horse from the Stevenson Brothers on 10th May 2012. The horse is based on Sir Winston Churchill’s Charger from 1894 when he passed out from Sandhurst and includes correct Military tack from his regiment the 4th Hussars. It includes black and white photographs of Her Majesty and Churchill inside a secret bottom drawer and three lead figures of Churchill under glass in the base. © Stevenson Brothers

PLATINUM JUBILEE 2022

Visitor Information

Tel: 01233 330383 www.experienceashfordandtenterden.co.uk tourism@ashford.gov.uk /visitashtent /@visitashtent /visitashfordtenterden

Watch our tourism video here: www.youtube.com/channel/UCXp6VTPGSxquYAZnfEI3liw

Feeling inspired?

www.experienceashfordandtenterden.co.uk

Places to Visit See map on centre pages for venue locations 1

Ashford Borough Museum

Ashford Borough’s history through the ages. Visit our railway room with fascinating memorabilia. Plus annual featured exhibitions. Open 11am-2pm, April to end of October. Special openings by arrangement. Free admission, run by volunteers.

Tel: 01233 635449 (open hours only) www.ashfordmuseum.org.uk 2

Ashford Designer Outlet

Discover over 90 of your favourite designer brands at up to 60% less all year round, including Armani, Adidas, Hollister, Michael Kors, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren and many more. Within our beautiful settings you’ll discover cafes, restaurants, a children’s play area for 3-11 year olds and ample parking.

Tel: 01233 895941 www.ashforddesigneroutlet.com 3

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

4

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

5

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 private tours.

Tel: 01580 291726 www.biddendenvineyards.com

6

Brabourne Vineyard

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

Tel: 01303 814432 www.brabournewine.com

7

Church of England in Tenterden

St Mildred, Tenterden; St Michaels and St John in Smallhythe. All places of historic encounter and quiet prayer.

Open daily 9am – 4pm (contact us about St. John’s).

Tel: 01580 761591/07805 840493 www.tenterdencofe.co.uk

8

C.M. Booth Collection of Historic Vehicles

Private collection 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

9

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

10

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.

Fly, Sail, Coach, Rail.

Tel: 01303 272625 www.crosskeys.uk.com

11

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

12

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

13

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, 10am-5pm.

Tel: 01233 884680 www.gusbourne.com/tours

14

Hole Park

Less well known, but highly praised delightful private garden over 15 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

15

Howletts Wild Animal Park & Port Lympne Reserve

Enjoy wild days out and spot gorillas, leopards and elephants at Howletts, or at Port Lympne Reserve see giraffe, bears, rhino and more, plus visit Dinosaur Forest. Free parking at both parks.

Tel: 01303 264647 www.aspinallfoundation.org 16

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

17

Kent & East Sussex Railway

Weaving a picturesque route from Tenterden through the rolling Weald countryside to the open tranquillity of the Rother Valley the 10½ mile line terminates in the shadow of the National Trust Castle at Bodiam. Light refreshments and gift shop. See website to book online for on-train dining experiences and more.

Tel: 01580 765155 www.kesr.org.uk 18

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

19

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

20

My Tenterden

Make the most of your visit to Tenterden. All you need to know about Tenterden in one place: discover what’s on, where to shop, eat, drink, stay, and visit. Come & explore! www.mytenterden.co.uk

21

Nightingale Farm Shop & Cidery

We sell a wide range of seasonal, home grown and locally produced products, including our own fruit, cider and juices, and local wine, beer, meat and cheeses. We’re based two miles outside of Tenterden on the B2080.

Tel: 01580 763938 www.nightingalecider.com/farm-shop/

22

Old Dairy Brewery

Old Dairy Brewery is moments from Tenterden High Street.

The Taproom sits within the Old Dairy Brew House offering a range of award-winning cask & keg beers. Beer garden with countryside views, food trucks at weekends, music on some Sundays. Open 7 days. Brewery Tours & Tastings available to book.

Tel: 01580 763867 www.olddairybrewery.com 23

Oxney Organic Estate

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

Tel: 01797 260137 www.oxneyestate.com

24

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

© Lewis J. Brockway

25

Revelation Ashford

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

Tel: 01233 663201 www.revelationashford.co.uk

26

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

27

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

28

Stevenson Brothers

We create bespoke wooden rocking horses to suit all ages – a much sought after family heirloom. Visitors welcome to visit our fascinating workshop and watch our craftsmen at work. Free parking.

Tel: 01233 820363 www.stevensonbros.com

29

Stocks Windmill

© John Bransbury

1781 post mill. Isle of Oxney’s only mill, one mile from Wittersham to Rye on B2082. Special opening times, see website (Sunday 2pm -5pm, May to September).

Tel: 01797 270295 www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/history-andheritage/kent-windmills/stocks-mill

30

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

31

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.

Tel: 01580 764310 www.tenterdenmuseum.co.uk

32

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

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

To Maidstone

To Tunbridge Wells

4 A229

46 Egerton

Staplehurst Sissinghurst A262 39

Cranbrook

Pluckley

33 Smarden

A274 Biddenden

5

28 A262

16

M

Bethersden

High Halden

A28 7 A28 18 St Michaels 20 TENTERDEN 22 37 17 21 30 40 Shadoxhurst 31 32 42 24 43 Woodchurch B2067

35 14 A28 To Hawkhurst

8 Rolvenden 34

To Northiam

Smallhythe B2080

B2082 23

Wittersham 29 Stone-cum-Ebony

© Stevenson Brothers

Kenardington 13 Appledore

Dungeness

Warehorn To Rye & Hastings

To Faversham A251

Charing

B2077

To Canterbury

A252

Chilham

A252 Challock

M20

ne

Please note that this map is not to scale.

A28 Boughton Aluph A251

A20 J9

Great Chart 12

38 36 9 3 47 2 1 27 25 11 41 J10 45 19 Kingsnorth

ASHFORD Mersham

A2070

44

Wye Elmsted

Brabourne

6 A20

Aldington Hamstreet B2067

M20

15

J11

Lympne

To Folkestone & Dover

26 Hythe

10

33

The Big Cat Sanctuary

The Big Cat Sanctuary is a breeding centre for endangered cats and sanctuary for retired cats, housing over 50. We offer big cat experiences including tours, ranger days, photography days, adoptions and the overnight safari.

Tel: 01233 439150 www.thebigcatsanctuary.org

34

The Chapel Down Winery

Discover our award winning wines, enjoy the restaurant, shop, herb garden and vineyard walks. Take a guided tour, taste and learn how we grow vines and make wines.

Entrance free.

Tel: 01580 766111 www.chapeldown.com

35

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

36

The Julie Rose Stadium

International athletics stadium overlooking Conningbrook Lakes. Offering a well-equipped and recently refurbished gym featuring 40+ cardio and resistance machines, function room and group fitness classes; whilst providing junior athletic activities.

Tel: 01233 613131 www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/centres/julie-rose-stadium/

37

The Spa at Green Farm

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

Tel: 01233 733997 www.greenfarmkent.co.uk/the-spa

38

The Stour Centre

Recently reopened following a major refurbishment, with three pools, flumes and Raging River. Large gym with 100+ stations and Technogym Bio circuit, three group exercise studios, 8-court sports hall, interactive Clip to Climb, multilevel Soft Play, crèche and Costa Coffee cafe.

Tel: 01233 663503 www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/centres/the-stour-centre/ 39

UK Electric Bike Hire

The UK Electric Bike Centre offers a unique experience viewing Kent on an electric bike. We have designed selfguided routes along quiet lanes that visit vineyards, gardens and village pubs. Great day out for couples or groups.

Tel: 07904 287485 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 1-3 July; Folk Festival 29 Sept – 2 Oct; Christmas Market 25 – 27 Nov. Tel: 01233 330383 www.experienceashfordandtenterden.co.uk

41

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

42

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 Sept. Open on Summer Bank Hols. Closed October to Easter. Group bookings by prior arrangement.

Tel: 01233 860240 www.woodchurchmuseum.com

43

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

44

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 the delights of Ashford & Tenterden with a professional Blue Badge Tourist Guide. Private Tours, Walks & Talks available including Virtual Tours and Talks on Zoom.

I cover Kent, Sussex & Surrey by foot, car, or coach.

Contact Sue for more information.

Tel: 07546 595803 www.factorfictiontours.co.uk

The Wider Experience Road and off-road cycling experiences, tours and training for all ages and abilities for riders to explore and enjoy the Kent and East Sussex landscape. Bike hire also available.

Tel: 01622 370900 www.widerexperience.co.uk

Wine Tours of Kent Let us transport you through the Kent countryside to enjoy a day wine tasting amongst the vines. We do all the driving, so you can enjoy the wine.

Tel: 01580 762742 www.winetoursofkent.co.uk

Places to Eat & Drink 45

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 46

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

47

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

You’ll find further information on all these places to stay and to eat on our website www.experienceashfordandtenterden.co.uk

Hotels ASHFORD – Ashford International AA★★★★

Simone Weil Avenue Ashford TN24 8UX Tel: 01233 219988 www.ashfordhotel.co.uk reception@ashfordinternationalhotel.com

ASHFORD – Holiday Inn Ashford North A20, Maidstone Road Hothfield, Ashford TN26 1AR Tel: 01233 713333 www.hiashford.co.uk reservations@hiashford.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

ELMSTED – Elmsted Court Farm Elmsted Ashford, TN25 5JN Tel: 01233 750269 www.bandbcanterbury.co.uk info@bandbcanterbury.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: 01303 814432 www.brabournewine.com enquiries@brabournewine.com

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….

Tel: 01580 232255 www.bramleyandteal.co.uk bookings@bramleyandteal.co.uk

ORIGINAL COTTAGES KENT AND SUSSEX Whether you’re looking for a sea view or a secluded woodland hideaway, we have you covered with our stunning self-catering cottages across Kent and Sussex.

Tel: 01580 720770 www.originalcottages.co.uk info@originalcottages.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

Visitor Information Tel: 01233 330383 experienceashfordandtenterden.co.uk

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