Ashford is located on the Great Sour River in Kent, which flows from Ashford to Canterbury, eventually passing Sandwich on its way to the English Channel. Ashford is located close to the M20 motorway and major rail links, and it is these rail connections for which the town is best known. Ashford International Rail Station provides train services across Kent as well as the popular Eurostar service across the Channel to Paris and Brussels, making it a convenient crossing point for travellers heading to and from Europe. While modern Ashford is a transport hub, it was traditionally a market town settled prior to the 10th century. The town is thought to have its origins in the 9th century Danish invasion of Kent, which saw many flee the attacks by heading inland. A Saxon noble bequeathed the area that became known as Ashford to some of those who survived. Ashford quickly became sufficiently established to be listed in the Domesday Book, and went on to become a thriving central market town.
The international rail station has transformed the face and nature of Ashford. It has a typical modern town centre, with remnants of its history displayed in the scattered medieval architecture. It has also retained its reputation for shopping. There are shopping centres and high street shops within the town, as well as a designer outlet mall just outside the centre. The mall is easily walkable and there is also a shuttle bus service bringing you within easy reach of some of the biggest names in fashion and furnishings. With a location in the centre of Kent Ashford is also is well placed for exploring the wonderful southeast, such as the historic and traditional town of Tenterden, or beautiful Canterbury and its famous cathedral. Visitors can also follow the M20 down to Folkestone and the former port town of Hythe.
