Ashford International Station

Station Information

Station information is available here

Ashford International Station
Station Road
Ashford
TN23 1EZ

Live rail departure information can be found here

About Ashford

Ashford is a town in Kent that lies on the River Great Stour on the southern edge of the North Downs. It's name derives from the Old English word Aescet which suggests a ford near to a group of ash trees. It's history dates back to 1500 BC, with evidence of human habitation during the Iron Age. The barrow can be found at Barrow Hill.

Ashford is still a market town and has been ever since the Middle Ages. It regularly still hosts markets every Tues, Friday and Saturday.  It also has a huge Shopping Outlet Centre (Ashford Outlet) a short walk from the station.

Ashford also has an International Station and is part of the High Speed 1 route linking it with Paris and London.

Exploring Ashford

Magic happens when contrasts combine which is certainly the case for Ashford. Here, the modern meets ancient, chic meets quaint, towns meet Downs,  and Old England stretches all around, giving countless compelling reasons to explore further with a PlusBus ticket when you arrive by train to Visit Ashford.

Walks around Ashford
Why not explore Ashford? The Ashford Green Corridor leaflet identifies 7 walks and cycling routes that you may wish to follow, taking you through the wonderful countryside and along the River Stour to see an abundance of wildlife on route. The Ashford Quiz Trail offers fun for all the family. A 1.6 mile walk around the town to discover facts and stories about the amazing history of Ashford and it's important place in the heritage of Kent.

You will also find a few beautiful walks recommended on the AllTrails website you may be interested in exploring.

During Spring and Summer, Tales from the Tracks offer railway themed walking tours in the Ashford area.

Cycle rides around Ashford

There are several different cycle routes around Ashford ranging in distance. Why not take a look at the following routes?

Explore Ashford - This leaflet provides information about different cycling routes around Ashford.

Ashford to Tunbridge Wells- This is a 42 mile ride through an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty around the High Weald.

Route 18 Canterbury to Tunbridge Wells Via Ashford - This is a 61 mile cycle ride.

Pilgrims Cycle Trail  - If you fancy a challenge why not cycle along part of the Pilgrims Way or even the entire 47 miles. There are picturesque views across the North Downs but a mountain bike is advisable as part of the route is in need of some repair.

North Downs Way Riders’ Route - Ride through 1000s of years of history on the magnificent North Downs Way National Trail Riders' Route.

Please note

We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.

However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.

Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.

Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.

For more information about things to do around Ashford, why not take a look at the Explore Kent website.

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