A summer of wellbeing in Ashford’s open spaces

Published: 04/06/2026

This summer, Ashford Borough Council (ABC) is proud to bring a host of FREE community events to Victoria Park and other open spaces to boost public health and lower social isolation.

The extensive programme of activities is being delivered as part of ABC’s public health work. From crafting and creative writing to yoga and walks, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s what’s on offer:

Green Walks

Join the Parks Team for a monthly stroll around Victoria Park and beyond, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Walks vary in length from 30 minutes to over an hour (see the Victoria Park website or Facebook page for details)

Park Yoga

We’ve teamed up with national charity, Park Yoga, to deliver another season of free weekly classes with local teacher Elise. With no need to book, enjoy the wonderful benefits of yoga in a beautiful outdoor setting, simply bring a mat or towel to practice on and look out for the Park Yoga flag on the field near Harper’s Cafe.

Details: Every Sunday until 13 September, 9.30am to 10.30am, Victoria Park

Creative crafts

Guest instructors are leading creative art and craft sessions in the community hub or outside in the park. You can join just one or as many sessions as you wish – you simply need to book your spot via the link on the Victoria Park website.

Brush with Nature – Whether you're a nature lover or just looking to unwind, join us for fun and relaxed watercolour workshops where we connect with the park’s landscape and wildlife.
Details: Mondays, 10am to 12pm, June 8, 15, 22, 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27, August 3, Community Room at Harper’s Café (all dates currently fully booked)
Knit and Natter – Enjoy knitting and crochet sessions, working together to yarn bomb the park. All abilities are welcome, you just need to be able to do a simple knit stitch or know how to double crochet.
Details: Mondays, 1pm to 3pm, June 8, 15, 22, 29, July 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10, 24, September 7, Community Room at Harper’s Cafe
The Fountain Pens – Let the literary ideas flow with these creative writing sessions.
Details: Mondays, 10am to 12pm, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, September 7, 14, 21, Community Room at Harper’s Cafe

Outdoor Gym Training

Local personal trainer, Wolfy, will show you how to use the outdoor gym equipment in a number of parks across Ashford to create a routine you can then continue on your own to improve your fitness level. No need to book, simply turn up.

Details:

Hunter Avenue Play Area, Willesborough, Tuesdays, 10am to 11am, June 9, 16, 23
Central Park (The Moat), Park Farm, Fridays, 3pm to 4pm, June 5, 12, 19, 26
Bulleid Place, Tuesdays, 10am to 11am, July 7, 14, 21, 28
Rylands Road Play Area, Kennington, Fridays, 3pm to 4pm, July 3, 10, 17, 24
Spearpoint, Kennington, Tuesdays, 10am to 11am, August 4, 11
Noakes Meadow, Fridays, 3pm to 4pm, August 7, 14

And there’s more to come…

Look out for these activities, details coming soon…

Boardgame Afternoons 

Enjoy a little healthy competition with family or friends at our Boardgame Afternoons in the Community Room at Harper’s Café. Grab a table and choose from a range of games – event is on a first come first serve basis.