Discover the beautiful countryside of Ashford borough and the rural charm of numerous picture-postcard villages and you will see why this part of the world lives up to its reputation as the 'Garden of England'. Visit in spring and enjoy the numerous bluebell woods and orchards in blossom or in summer when the fields are bright yellow from the rape seed, or wait until harvest time when hops and apples are being gathered in.

Inspirational Countryside

It's no surprise that this beautiful countryside has also inspired so many writers. The delightful village of Pluckley, with its unusually shaped 'Dering' windows provided the setting for local author H E Bates' "The Darling Buds of May", while Jane Austen depicted characters and scenes from the village of Godmersham in her novel "Pride and Prejudice". Great Maytham Hall at Rolvenden, which was designed by Lutyens, contains the ancient walled garden that inspired Frances Hodgson Burnett to write the children's novel "The Secret Garden".

There are many ways of viewing Ashford at it's best; cycling, fishing or walking - and you can enjoy a taste of the country by sampling some of the best home-grown produce on the way. From Kentish apples, pears and cherries to delicious jams and preserves, from fine wines and ciders to local beers flavoured by Kent-grown hops, there is something to suit all palates.

For more places to eat, see our Eating Out webpage.

The area around Wye and Crundale offers up to 17 miles of public bridleway paths suitable for horse riding, you can find out more information on the Kent County Council website.