One of the most attractive aspects of Ashford is the quality of life it has to offer. There is plenty to do in the borough, from enjoying the countryside to visiting tourist attractions and more. Ashford also offers a host of charming places to stay from modern hotels to traditional bed and breakfast properties, self catering and camping and caravan parks.

A wealth of pubs, clubs and restaurants are dotted around the borough and there are fantastic shopping opportunities in Ashford town centre and Tenterden.

There are a number of leisure centres and entertainment venues offering swimming, bowling and cinema. The remodelled Stour Centre provides Ashford with one of the best new leisure pools and leisures facilities in the south east.

Sport in Ashford is very strong with a range of high quality facilities including the international standard Julie Rose athletics stadium. Ashford also hosts a growing number of sports clubs. Together they provide excellent training facilities for local and national sportsmen and women, and opportunities to be active and healthy.

A distinct voluntary arts sector exists which runs societies and many local events and festivals offers a rich and diverse mix to suit all tastes.  There is an increasing array of cultural facilities offering arts and entertainment for all the family.

The provision of leisure and tourism within the borough is central to the council’s objectives and values. 

Our Cultural Strategy highlights the need for cultural, sport and tourism to bring communities together, enrich the quality of our lives, create prosperity and enhance public places, parks and green spaces.

More information on what to do in the borough can be found at the Tourist Information Centres.