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Ashford, nestled in the heart of Kent, offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities. This bustling market town serves as an ideal base for exploring the picturesque Kent countryside and nearby coastal areas. With its strategic location and excellent transport links, Ashford provides easy access to popular attractions and hidden gems alike. Booking a car rental allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the region's beauty, from quaint villages to stunning landscapes, all at their own pace.
Ashford boasts a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the town's rich history to venturing into the surrounding countryside, having a car rental gives you the freedom to experience it all. Visit the Ashford Designer Outlet for some retail therapy, explore the nearby Godinton House and Gardens, or take a scenic drive through the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With a hired car, you can easily access these diverse attractions and create your own unforgettable itinerary.
Leeds Castle, often referred to as the "loveliest castle in the world," is a must-visit attraction near Ashford. This stunning medieval fortress sits on two islands in a lake, surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. With a car hire, you can easily reach this historic gem and spend a day exploring its opulent interiors, maze, and falconry displays. The castle offers ample parking for visitors, making it convenient for those arriving by car. Take a leisurely drive through the Kent countryside to reach this iconic landmark.
Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a short drive from Ashford and well worth the trip. This magnificent cathedral, steeped in history and architectural beauty, offers visitors a glimpse into England's rich religious heritage. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to the cathedral and explore the surrounding historic city of Canterbury at your own pace. Parking is available in nearby car parks, allowing you to spend ample time admiring the cathedral's stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework.
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Dungeness Nature Reserve is a must. This unique landscape, often described as Britain's only desert, offers a stark yet beautiful environment teeming with wildlife. With your hired car, you can easily access this remote area and explore its vast shingle beaches, lighthouses, and diverse flora and fauna. The reserve provides parking facilities, allowing you to spend a full day discovering this extraordinary ecosystem. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the haunting beauty of this otherworldly landscape.
- By plane: The nearest major airport is London Gatwick, from where you can take a train or rent a car to reach Ashford.
- By train: Ashford International Station offers excellent connections to London and other major cities in the UK.
- By car: Ashford is easily accessible via the M20 motorway, making it convenient for those driving from other parts of the UK.
When booking a car in Ashford, consider reserving early on Turo to secure the best options. Choose a vehicle that suits your planned activities, whether it's a compact car for city exploration or a larger SUV for countryside adventures. Look for extras like GPS navigation to help you navigate Kent's winding roads, or opt for a car with a backup camera for easier parking in town centres. Consider the season when selecting your rental car, as a vehicle with air conditioning can be a blessing during summer trips to the coast.
Ashford offers several convenient pickup locations for car rentals booked on Turo. The town centre is a popular choice, with many Hosts on Turo offering their vehicles near the high street and shopping areas. This central location is ideal for guests arriving by train at Ashford International Station. Another convenient option is the residential areas surrounding the town, where you might find a wider variety of car hire choices, including SUVs and vans. Some Hosts on Turo may offer pickup near Ashford Designer Outlet, combining shopping convenience with car rental. When comparing locations, consider factors such as proximity to your accommodation, parking availability, and ease of access to major roads like the M20. Remember to communicate with your Host on Turo about specific pickup arrangements to ensure a smooth start to your Ashford car rental experience.
Ashford serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the picturesque Kent countryside by car. The North Downs Way offers a scenic drive through rolling hills and charming villages. Another delightful route takes you through the Weald of Kent, where you'll encounter quaint market towns and historic landmarks. For a coastal experience, head towards the White Cliffs of Dover, enjoying breathtaking sea views along the way. The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provides numerous winding roads through lush forests and past traditional oast houses. Remember to pack a picnic and make frequent stops to fully appreciate the beauty of the Garden of England. These routes showcase the diverse landscapes Kent has to offer, making your car rental in Ashford a gateway to unforgettable countryside adventures.
Navigating peak hour traffic in Ashford requires some strategic planning. Utilise the town's ring road system to bypass the busy town centre during rush hours. Consider adjusting your travel times slightly earlier or later to avoid the heaviest congestion. Local radio stations provide regular traffic updates, helping you stay informed about potential delays. When possible, use alternative routes through residential areas, but be mindful of school zones during term time. Ashford's park and ride services can be a convenient option for commuters, allowing you to park outside the town and complete your journey via public transport. If you must drive through busy areas, remain patient and allow extra time for your journey. By planning ahead and staying flexible with your route, you can make your car journey in Ashford more efficient and less stressful during peak hours.
For comfortable journeys through Kent's diverse landscapes, consider a versatile SUV or a spacious estate car. These vehicles offer excellent visibility and ample boot space for luggage or picnic gear. If you're planning to explore narrow country lanes, a compact car like a Vauxhall Corsa could be ideal, providing easy manoeuvrability and good fuel efficiency. For longer trips or family outings, a comfortable saloon or a minivan might be preferable, offering extra legroom and amenities. If you're keen on enjoying the scenic coastal routes with the wind in your hair, a convertible could be a fun option during the warmer months. Whatever your choice, ensure your car hire in Ashford matches your specific needs and the types of roads you'll be travelling on throughout Kent.
Ashford's town centre offers several convenient parking options for visitors. The multi-storey car parks at County Square and Vicarage Lane provide ample spaces close to the main shopping areas. For those seeking open-air parking, the Flour Mills car park near the railway station is a popular choice. The Edinburgh Road car park offers another central option, ideal for accessing the high street. If you're planning a longer stay, consider the Park Mall car park, which often has competitive rates for all-day parking. Remember to check the payment methods accepted at each location, as some may require cash while others accept card payments or have mobile app options. Always adhere to local parking regulations and time limits to avoid any inconveniences during your visit to Ashford.
While Kent itself has few toll roads, drivers should be aware of the Dartford Crossing when travelling towards London. This toll applies when crossing the River Thames and can be paid online, by phone, or at certain retail outlets. It's crucial to pay the charge by midnight the day after crossing to avoid penalties. The M6 toll road, although not in Kent, might be encountered on longer journeys northward. For these, it's advisable to carry some cash or a contactless payment card. Always check your planned route in advance to identify any potential toll roads and their payment methods. Some car rental services in Ashford may offer guidance on toll road procedures, so don't hesitate to ask when collecting your vehicle. Being prepared for these charges will ensure a smooth journey throughout Kent and beyond.
When preparing for long-distance drives from Ashford to other parts of England, thorough planning is key. Familiarise yourself with your hired car before setting off, ensuring you understand all controls and features. Plan your route in advance, considering potential rest stops and refuelling points along the way. Pack essentials such as water, snacks, and a phone charger. Check the weather forecast and road conditions before departing, especially during winter months. It's wise to have a physical map as a backup to GPS navigation. Take regular breaks to stay alert, ideally every two hours or so. If you're not accustomed to driving on the left, practise in quieter areas of Ashford before embarking on motorways. Lastly, ensure you're aware of any specific rules or charges that may apply in your destination, such as congestion charges in London.
Driving safely on Kent's rural backroads requires extra caution and awareness. Always adhere to posted speed limits, which can change frequently on country roads. Be prepared for narrow lanes and blind bends by reducing your speed and staying alert. Watch out for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are more active. In areas with high hedges or stone walls, be cautious of oncoming traffic and be prepared to pull over in passing places. During harvest seasons, be aware of slow-moving farm vehicles and potential mud on the roads. When renting a car in Ashford, choose a vehicle you're comfortable manoeuvring on narrow roads. Use your headlights in areas of poor visibility, even during the day. Lastly, remember that GPS signals can be unreliable in remote areas, so having a physical map as backup is advisable for exploring Kent's charming rural landscapes.
Ashford and its surroundings offer numerous reliable petrol stations for refuelling during your explorations. In the town centre, you'll find several options along the main roads, including stations on Hythe Road and Canterbury Road. For those venturing out of town, petrol stations are conveniently located along major routes like the A20 and M20. Many supermarkets in the area, such as those found in the Ashford Retail Park, often have on-site petrol stations with competitive prices. When exploring rural areas, it's wise to refuel in larger towns or at motorway services to ensure availability. Some petrol stations offer 24-hour service, which can be particularly useful for early morning or late-night journeys. Remember to check your rental car's fuel type before refuelling, and always keep your tank at least a quarter full when exploring the Kent countryside to avoid any inconvenience.
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