Leisure and Culture

Ashford is a thriving town where 85% of residents value the quality of life. A multi-million pound investment scheme is rapidly creating a town centre that will combine modern shopping malls and pedestrianised streets with first-class leisure facilities and popular cultural attractions that complement Ashford’s existing heritage.

•  Ashford Designer Outlet Centre already attracts over 3 million visitors a year.
•  County Square shopping centre will double its size, offering over 60 stores by spring 2008.
• The Stour Leisure Centre has undergone a multi-million redevelopment and provides the community with a superb sports centre, gym and leisure pool facilities.
• The Julie Rose Stadium is an international standard athletics stadium.
• Ashford has Kent’s largest combined cinema and leisure complex.
• 18 hole golf course at Chart Hills, which plays host to the English Ladies Open.
• Ashford hosts carnivals and open air performances and showcases works from local and national artists.
• In surrounding villages discover boutiques, Kentish tea rooms and traditional inns. Plus award-winning vineyards and farmers' markets.