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Ashford is a modern, thriving market town in Kent, renowned for its excellent transport links and its unique blend of historical charm and modern commerce. It’s a key regional hub, with its status as an international rail terminal defining its contemporary character. You can indulge in retail therapy at the massive Ashford Designer Outlet, a beautiful open-air shopping centre.
The town's historical roots are preserved at sites like Godinton House & Gardens, one of Kent's finest historic estates, and the Ashford Borough Museum, which details the town's railway heritage. Surrounded by the rolling countryside of the North Downs Way, Ashford is also close to some of England's best vineyards, such as Chapel Down Winery, making it a perfect base for exploring the 'Garden of England'.
The best location for your Ashford hotel is one that prioritises transport convenience, given its role as a regional and international rail hub, while still offering easy access to the modern town centre amenities.
Accommodation near Ashford International Station and the Town Centre is the most convenient choice. Staying here places you within walking distance of the main shopping areas, the Ashford Borough Museum, and a wide range of restaurants. This is the ideal hub for visitors arriving by rail or those planning to explore Kent via train.
For shoppers, hotels near the Ashford Designer Outlet offer immediate access to the retail park, which is a key draw for many visitors. For those who prefer history and tranquillity, look for accommodation slightly outside the centre towards the beautiful Victoria Park or near the roads leading to Godinton House.
Ashford is served by Ashford International Station, which offers high-speed train services to London St Pancras and other parts of Kent. The station is centrally located. Local bus services are comprehensive, and the town's position on the M20 motorway makes road access very easy for those exploring the wider Kent countryside.
Hotel prices in Ashford are heavily influenced by its function as a business and transport hub. The highest prices are consistently found during the mid-week, from Monday to Thursday, due to corporate travel and its connection to the Eurostar route.
The best value is secured by booking a stay over the weekend, particularly a Sunday night, when business demand is at its lowest. The main tourist season is the summer, June to August. A unique tip for Ashford is to be aware of the schedules for the nearby Curious Brewery and Chapel Down Winery tours. Booking a package or a mid-week stay outside the school holidays offers the best combination of access to these popular local sites and good hotel rates.