Ashford Hotels

Ashford is a market town in the county of Kent, an area often referred to as the "Garden of England". In 2005, it was voted the fourth best place to live in the United Kingdom. Steeped in history, the town boasts many medieval buildings, a lively farmer's market and many tourist attractions in the vicinity. There are many places to see in the surrounding area too, including Canterbury or one of the nearby coastal resorts. However, Ashford is also a dynamic and rapidly growing town due to its excellent transport links: the Ashford International Station and Eurotunnel terminal give direct access to mainland Europe; the town is situated close to the M20; and is within easy reach of London and ferry ports. All visitors to the area are well-served by the amenities in Ashford hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfast accommodation.

The town itself, originally formed around the farms on Romney Marsh, was listed in the Domesday Book in 1086 under its Saxon name, which is believed to refer to its position on the River Stour. Due to its position, always something of a hub for transport for local villages and railway links, a market charter was bestowed in 1243 and Ashford has grown into an important agricultural and market town. The livestock market is now relocated outside the centre and is used by some 5,000 farmers, but local produce is still sold at the farmer's market in town.

Tourists can visit the 12th century church, find out about local history in the Ashford Museum housed in the old grammar school (originally built in 1635) or visit the Jacobean country mansion Godinton Park. Beech Court Gardens surrounding a medieval farmhouse with a nature trail and refreshments, in nearby Challock are worth a visit, as are the Church Hill Cottage Gardens in Charing Heath and the restored Willesborough Windmill on Mill Lane.

Those seeking retail therapy are also in luck. Ashford boasts two shopping centres, County Square Shopping Centre and Park Mall Shopping Centre, in addition to the High Street which includes many of the high street brands, such as Debenhams and Marks & Spencers. £60m was invested recently to extend the County Square Shopping Centre and offer more variety for shoppers. As an alternative, Ashford Designer Outlet retails luxury and designer goods with discounts of up to 60% and is easily accessible – 10 minutes by foot or 5 minutes by shuttle bus (which runs from Bank Street).

There is a selection of activities for families too. The South of England Rare Breed Centre in Tenterden has a selection of rare farm animals and children are given the opportunity to pet them and to explore the play areas, an aviary, butterfly tunnel and a Creepy Crawly section. Kidzcity and the Crocodile Club Fun Centre in Ashford also offer indoor play areas.

For those wanting to travel further afield, nature-lovers will enjoy the Wye Nature Reserve or a visit to Romney Marsh. The National Cycle Network has two routes running through Ashford and walkers can enjoy the various long distance footpaths that connect in the area, for example the Stour Valley Walk and the North Downs Way. Visit one of the National Trust properties in the vicinity such as Sissinghurst Castle Garden or other historic buildings such as Leeds Castle. The Kent landscape has also been developed to create some excellent vineyards – why not sample some English wine?

The city of Canterbury, approximately 15 miles from Ashford, is one of the favourite tourist destinations in England, thanks to its magnificent cathedral and Geoffrey Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales." London, only 55 miles away, is easily accessible too – the high-speed train takes only 38 minutes to get to St Pancreas Station.

For those wishing to stay awhile in Ashford or the surrounding area, there is no shortage of accommodation. Ashford hotels give easy access to the domestic and international rail stations and provide a full-suite of guest services including 24 hour reception, parking, hotel restaurants using local produce, hotel bars and often gardens. For visitors travelling on business or wanting to use the internet, Ashford hotels offer office facilities including wireless access, fax, photocopying and meeting and banquet capabilities. These services are in addition to the other guest services such as room service, laundry, deposit box and luggage storage.

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