Living in Ashford – The Ultimate Area Guide

If you’re considering a move to Ashford, you’re in for a delightful experience.

Nestled in the heart of Kent, Ashford offers a blend of charming properties, excellent schools, and superb transport links – making it an ideal location for families and professionals alike.

Moving to a new area can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with it.

That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you understand what living in Ashford is all about.

From housing and education to amenities and employment opportunities, we’ve got you covered.

Here are 6 compelling reasons to make Ashford your new home.

House Prices in Ashford

One of the standout features of Ashford is the variety and affordability of its housing market.

The town boasts a mix of property types, including terraced and semi-detached houses, as well as an increasing number of new-build developments.

If you’re a fan of period properties, you’ll find some beautiful Georgian and Victorian buildings within walking distance of the town centre, offering a glimpse into Ashford’s rich history.

For those seeking a more rural lifestyle without sacrificing convenience, nearby villages like Wye, Charing, and Tenterden provide idyllic settings close to essential amenities and transport links – meaning you don’t have to sacrifice convenience to have your own slice of the iconic Kent countryside!

But what can you expect to pay for a property in Ashford?

As of the latest data, the average house price in Ashford is £315,138.

Here’s a breakdown of what different property types currently cost:

• Flats: Average price of £169,230
• Terraced houses: Around £263,015
• Semi-detached houses: Approximately £317,618
• Detached houses: Averaging at £445,858

These prices make buying a home in Ashford an attractive prospect for a wide range of buyers, especially when compared to the soaring costs in nearby London.

Keep in mind that the housing market is always evolving, so it’s wise to check the most recent figures when you’re planning your move.

The Cost of Living in Ashford

While the cost of living has been on the rise nationwide, Ashford manages to offer a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to larger cities.

The town provides its residents with access to numerous budget-friendly supermarkets like Iceland, Aldi, and Lidl, helping you keep your grocery bills in check.

There are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in your spare time, thanks to Ashford’s excellent amenities.

From picturesque parks to community events, you don’t have to break the bank to have a good time.

For those moving from London or other more expensive areas, the cost savings can be significant – even more reason to consider moving to the area!

With a bit of budgeting and savvy shopping, you’ll find that living in Ashford can be both enjoyable and economical.

Education in Ashford

Ashford is an excellent place for families to consider moving to, particularly when it comes to education.

The town may not have an overwhelming number of schools, but it more than makes up for it with the quality of education they provide.

Many of the primary schools in the area boast academic performances above 85%, setting a strong educational foundation for Ashford’s young learners.

Here we will explore some of the top schools across a range of different age groups:

Primary Schools

• Charing Church of England Primary School – Ofsted Rating Good, Overall Snobe rating A-
• Beaver Green Primary School – Ofsted Rating Good, Overall Snobe rating B+
• St Barnabas and St Philip’s CofE Primary School – Ofsted Rating Good, Overall Snobe rating B-

Secondary Schools

• Highworth Grammar School: Considered one of the best secondary schools in Ashford, it has earned an “Outstanding” rating from Ofsted.
• Goldwyn School: Another top choice for secondary school education, Goldwyn School has achieved the coveted “Outstanding” rating from Ofsted and places a focus on its culture of ‘anything is possible’.
• Additional Options: There are several other secondary schools in the area, each offering quality education and a range of programmes.

Further and Higher Education

• Ashford School on East Hill: A private independent school founded in 1898, offering high-level education for those considering private schooling.
• Ashford College: Provides a variety of full-time and part-time courses, including BTEC and NVQ Diplomas, Apprenticeships, and Higher Education programmes.

Living in Ashford ensures that students of all ages have access to excellent educational opportunities, setting them up for future success.

Things to Do When Living in Ashford

Ashford is a town steeped in history and natural beauty.

With 2,395 listed buildings, 42 scheduled monuments, 43 conservation areas, and proximity to two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there’s always something to explore no matter your interests.

Let’s take a look at some of the best things you can do when moving to the area!

Cultural Attractions

• Ashford Borough Museum: Located in a 17th-century Grade II listed building in the town centre, the museum showcases Ashford’s eclectic history, including a fantastic model railway exhibit – all aboard the Ashford Borough Museum!
• Willesborough Windmill: This beautifully restored windmill offers guided tours and a glimpse into the area’s rich agricultural past.
• Godinton House and Gardens: A stunning historic estate, Godinton House is home to some beautifully maintained gardens and is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

Shopping Destinations

• Ashford Designer Outlet: Part of the McArthurGlen group, this outlet is a must-visit for fashion and shopping enthusiasts. Home to over 100 luxury brands like Calvin Klein, Nike, and Polo Ralph Lauren, it offers an exceptional shopping experience with ample parking and dining options. The Ashford Designer Outlet draws visitors from the whole of Kent and beyond and is one of the best places to find a great deal.
• County Square Shopping Centre: The town centre’s prime shopping spot, featuring high-street favourites such as Next, JD Sports, and Pandora.
• Park Mall: A local favourite known for its independent shops like The Record Store and Made in Ashford, which showcase unique items from local artisans.

Outdoor Activities

With its surrounding countryside, Ashford offers plenty of outdoor pursuits for its locals.

Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying scenic views, the glorious Kent landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for both leisure and adventure.

Ashford’s Transport Links: Unparalleled Connectivity

Ashford’s strategic location ensures residents have excellent transport options, making it a prime spot for commuters and travellers looking to escape the hefty price tags that come with living in major cities.

Road Connections

• Proximity to Motorways: Located near the M25, Ashford provides easy access to the M3, M4, and M40, facilitating seamless travel across the UK.
• Local Roads: Well-maintained local roads connect Ashford to neighbouring towns and villages, making regional travel nice and easy.

Rail Services

• High-Speed Trains: Regular services to London Waterloo run every 20 minutes, with journey times as short as 37 minutes! This makes Ashford a prime location for commuters looking for a more peaceful place to call home.
• International Travel: Ashford International Railway Station serves as a gateway to Europe. The Eurostar offers regular departures to destinations like Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels, making international travel convenient.

Employment Opportunities

Ashford’s economy is on the rise, offering a diverse range of employment opportunities across a variety of different sectors.

Keep in mind that with such excellent transport links, you can still commute for work so don’t panic if your industry isn’t on our list!

Key Industries

• Transport and Logistics: With Ashford International railway station and excellent road links, there are numerous roles in transport and logistics.
• Retail Sector: The Ashford Designer Outlet and town centre shops provide jobs in retail, customer service, and management.
• Manufacturing and Distribution: Several large warehouses and logistics firms operate in the area, offering positions in these growing industries.
• Healthcare and Education: Local hospitals, clinics, schools, and colleges offer stable careers in nursing, teaching, and administrative roles.

Ashford’s expanding economy and strategic location make it an attractive place for both businesses and professionals.

Ready to Start Living in Ashford?

Whether you’re drawn by the affordable housing, excellent educational facilities, or the rich array of amenities, moving to Ashford has something to offer everyone.

The town strikes a perfect balance between the charm of rural living and the convenience of urban amenities.

At GoodMove, we’re committed to making your move as smooth as possible.

Our comprehensive removals package is competitively priced, and we offer additional services like temporary or long-term storage to meet all your moving needs.

To find out more about how we can facilitate your move to Ashford, or any other area of Kent, feel free to give us a call.

Alternatively, you can fill out our quick quote form or use the live chat feature on our website, and a member of our customer services team will be in touch shortly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ashford a safe place to live?

A: Yes, Ashford is considered safe with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. Local policing initiatives contribute to the town’s secure environment.

Q: Are there job opportunities in Ashford?

A: Absolutely. Ashford’s growing economy offers diverse employment opportunities in sectors like transport, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

Q: What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Ashford?

A: The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for hiking, cycling, and outdoor exploration. Parks and nature reserves provide ample opportunities for leisure activities.

Q: How is the transportation system in Ashford?

A: Excellent. With high-speed rail links to London and Europe, as well as easy access to major motorways, Ashford offers unparalleled connectivity.

Q: What healthcare facilities are available in Ashford?

A: Ashford is well-served by healthcare facilities, including the William Harvey Hospital, various clinics, and medical practices offering a range of services.