insideKENT Magazine Issue 54 - September 2016 | Page 101

SO MUCH TO EXPLORE : ashford & tenterden

DAYSOUT
The Ashford & Tenterden Tourism Association ( known as ATTA ) was formed with the aim of the development , promotion and protection of tourism in the borough . 27 years on , the association is still going strong and now boasts 55 members from all sectors of the tourism industry , ranging from small family-run B & Bs , to visitor attractions , hotels and leisure facilities . Whole villages and towns also enjoy the benefits of membership , alongside multi-national companies such as the Ashford Designer Outlet . The association is also supported by the tourism department at Ashford Borough Council .
With its remit of promoting Ashford and Tenterden , the tourism association is kept busy with various events throughout the year including hosting a stand at the Kent County Show for three days in July and attendance at various trade exhibitions . Chairman Julian Barnes from Biddenden Vineyards is delighted at the continued growth of the association and says : “ The support and involvement of our members is what makes ATTA such a worthwhile organisation . It is member-led at local level and there are great opportunities for local businesses to work together , whether hosting a networking event for our members or attending a high profile event such as Excursions at Alexandra Palace or the Dover Holiday and Leisure Show . Join us and find out how you could help us to shape the future direction of tourism in the borough .”
Here are a just of few of their members to help you start exploring Ashford & Tenterden …
Tenterden Museum Station Road , Tenterden TN30 6HN
Tenterden Museum sits comfortably within a collection of similar Victorian weatherboard industrial buildings circa . 1850 . Built as a stable and store , it contains fascinating local history , also mediaeval ship building , which drove this areas thriving economy . Explore the pretty town after understanding the local architecture in our eclectic buildings room . www . tenterdenmuseum . co . uk
Old Dairy Brewery Tenterden Station Yard , Station Road , Tenterden TN30 6HE
Old Dairy Brewery is a traditional 30 barrel microbrewery , moments from Tenterden High Street . We brew a range of award-winning beers ( Red , Gold and Blue Top ) as well as seasonal and specialility beers to satisfy all palates in casks , bottles and key-keg . Our Brewery shop open : Mon-Fri : 10 am 4 pm . Sat : 10 am – 2 pm . Brewery Tours are also available and must be booked in advance , as well as an on-line shop . www . olddairybrewery . com
Biddenden Vineyards Gribble Bridge Lane , Biddenden TN27 8DF
Biddenden ’ s vineyard is planted on 24 acres of gentle south facing slopes . All Biddenden ’ s award-winning White , Red , Rosé and Sparkling English wines are estate bottled . The famous Strong Kentish Cider and juices are also produced at the vineyard from locally sourced apples and pears . Visitors are welcome daily . www . biddendenvineyards . com
Godinton House & Gardens Godinton Lane , Ashford TN23 3BP
13 acres of fabulous gardens complement the magnificent Jacobean house . Terraced lawns ornamented with topiary lead through herbaceous borders to a large formal lily pond . Broad gravel paths lead to an intimate Italian garden and large Walled Garden . Enjoy a guided tour , explore parkland and attend events throughout the year . Free parking . www . godintonhouse . co . uk
Kent & Sussex Holiday Cottages 15 High Street , Cranbrook TN17 3EB
Choose a cosy cottage , stunning barn or wonderful oast conversion in one of the pretty villages surrounding Ashford and Tenterden . With over 250 Visit England assessed self-catering holiday properties from the beautiful countryside of the High Weald to the dramatic and varied coast of Kent and Sussex , our local team will help you find the perfect place to stay . Explore the vibrant city of Canterbury or visit historic Rye as well as enjoying trips to castles , gardens and family friendly attractions . www . kentandsussexcottages . co . uk
For more information about what Ashford & Tenterden have to offer , visit www . visitashfordandtenterden . co . uk
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