Ashford City Guide

Mix of British pubs, chains, and some international options like Indian and Italian. Vegetarian and vegan choices grow. Most places close by 10-11 PM.

Modest nightlife with pubs, a few bars, and a nightclub mainly for locals.

Chains and some independent cafes serve good coffee; not a specialty coffee hub.

Tipping is optional. 10-12.5% service charge sometimes added at restaurants, otherwise 10% common. Taxi tips usually round up or 10%. Small tips appreciated for other services. No tips expected for drinks in pubs.

SIM cards are easy to buy at shops like EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three, or supermarkets. Pay-as-you-go options don't usually require ID. Coverage is good.

The town is generally clean with regular waste services.

Limited 24/7 services. Some supermarkets and gyms open late. Few late-night shops and takeaways.

Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, and Waitrose offer a wide selection including international products. Local markets run on select Saturdays. Shops mostly open 7-11 AM to 10-11 PM on weekdays.

Most places accept cards and contactless payments. Cash is rarely needed.

ATMs are found at banks, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Major banks include Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, and Santander. Fees are rare for UK cards but possible for international ones.

Ashford has local primary and secondary schools. International schools are rare; options exist farther away. English is the main teaching language.

Small digital nomad presence with limited meetups or events.

Good green space access including parks and riverside walks.

Safe routes in parks, along river, and nearby countryside. Running groups exist.

Several gyms including 24/7 options and sports facilities with pools and tracks.

Tennis courts available at clubs and public facilities.

Padel courts are rare in the area.

Yoga studios and fitness centers offer classes, drop-ins common.

Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, and boxing gyms available. English-speaking instructors common.

No skiing nearby.

Kayaking and paddleboarding available locally in rivers and coastal spots during warmer months.

Surfing is not common due to calm coastal waters.

Diving is not popular due to water conditions.

William Harvey Hospital serves the area with English-speaking staff. NHS provides public care; private options exist. Pharmacies like Boots operate mostly standard hours.

Tap water meets high UK standards and is safe to drink.

Playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and attractions like Ashford Designer Outlet and Godinton Gardens. Swimming and leisure centers available.

Generally accepting with legal protections. No specific venues but safe spaces available.

Many parks and green spaces for dogs. Pet services and supplies easily found.