insideKENT Magazine Issue 23 - February 2014 | Page 102

TOWNSPOTLIGHT
S P O T L I G H T

O N

ashford

Located amid an intersection of two Kent valleys – the south edge of the North Downs and the
valley of the River Stour – the age-old town of Ashford resides in a perfect settlement spot. From
sought after transport links to a rich history in agriculture, this rural borough admirably combines
traditional market-town charms with the hustle and bustle of modern shopping facilities, fine dining
eateries and a vibrant café culture.
PHOTOS BY VISIT KENT

Godinton House & Gardens

Eastwell Manor

history in brief
Originating from a settlement first established in
893 AD by residents escaping a Danish Viking
raid on the nearby village of Great Chart, the
town of Ashford was notably recorded for
centuries under its original Saxon name of
Essetesford. While some believe this handle stood
for 'ash trees growing near a ford', others
suggested that it meant 'a ford over the river
Eshe or Eshet', the old name for the tributary of
the River Stour.
Prior to this invasion, Ashford was owned by St
Augustine's Abbey in Canterbury, boasting a
mention in the Norman's Domesday Book in
1086. However, by the early 17th century Ashford
had carved a name for itself as a flourishing
market town, laying claim to an impressive
livestock trade and sought after road links to the
port of Faversham, Canterbury, Hythe, Romney
Marsh and the Weald.
Serving as a communications hub to its
surrounding villages, Ashford consisted of a small
crowd of medieval buildings, with the picturesque
parish church of St Mary the Virgin at its centre.
Today's Middle Row was recognised as The
Shambles, a market-driven space which afforded
the selling of meat, butter, corn, fish and livestock.
In addition, a number of shops, craftsmen sites
and ale houses stood nearby, while the mill and
tannery took precedence of place by the river.

In the present day, Ashford successfully combines
its traditional market town roots with its recognised
title as one of the UK's international gateways.
Not only does it lie next to the busy M20 and
remain central to a handful of major railway links
– including the South Eastern Main Line, High
Speed 1 and Eurostar – but it also plays host to
an excellent range of modern shopping facilities,
restaurants, pubs and busy cafés.

Willesborough Windmill

sporting events. From world-class athletics to
triathlons, The Julie Rose Stadium is regarded
as one of the finest facilities in the UK. See how
you can get involved at
www.ashfordleisuretrust.co.uk/centres/e/thejulie-rose-stadium

things to do

Ashford Museum – Preserving the town's
heritage, Ashford Museum is housed in a 17thcentury Grade II listed building and features two
floors of fascinating exhibits associated with
Ashford's history.

County Square – If you're after a spot of retail
therapy, County Square offers a great mix of high
street retailers that will suitably cater to your every
need. And for those of you who find shopping
tiring work, there's a host of eateries to take a
well-earned break too.

Godinton House and Gardens – An ancient
estate surrounded by rolling green parkland,
Godinton's beautifully restored house and gardens
are loved by many. Here, visitors can enjoy house
tours, wonderful walks and delicious homemade
refreshments in the old Billiard Room.

Revelation St Mary's – Prior to its current stance
as an intimate and awe-inspiring venue, this
revamped music and arts venue was once St
Mary's Church in Ashford. Now, Revelation St
Mary's creative directors curate a diverse
programme of eminent musicians and artists that
warrants a visit season on season.

Willesborough Windmill – Now open during the
summer season to the public, visiting guests can
take a tour of the lovingly restored, working
Willesborough Windmill before relaxing over a
delicious homemade tea and cake in Mrs. Cobb's
Kitchen.

Wye Downs Walk – Rewarded by spectacular
views, an exhilarating circular walk through the
Downs, the historic village of Wye and along part
of the North Downs Way is well worth the climb.
The Julie Rose Stadium – Situated beneath the
North Downs, this popular athletics stadium
makes a fantastic backdrop for a wide range of

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Eureka Leisure – An oasis of entertainment,
Eureka Park hosts a multiplex cinema, gym, a
whole hoard of popular restaurants, shops and
the fantastic Dobbies Garden Centre.