When the air starts to chill and the leaves start to turn, you’ll find us dreaming of our next cosy autumn break, and with its foodie credentials and gorgeous gardens, not to mention its many, many vineyards, Ashford and Tenterden is top of our list.
This region is home to one of the largest wine growing regions in the country, boasting cute market towns, pretty glamping sites and plenty of independent shops. Golfers will love taking to the greens, leaf peepers will enjoy crunching through auburn-hued gardens, while foodies will be spoilt for choice with the region’s exceptional restaurants.
Brewery tours and tasty tipples
Autumn is hop harvesting time, so we can’t think of a better place to be than McCanns Hop House & Kitchen, perfectly placed at Hukins Hops, a real working hop garden in the heart of the Garden of England. Combine a Hop Farm Tour through the bines (trust us, the hops smell incredible at this time of year), before seeing the next phase of the beer making process with a guided tour of McCanns Brewery. Once you’ve sipped and sampled, settle in for a delicious meal paired with McCanns’ finest craft beer.
Cider lovers, The Nightingale Cider Company is the place to try Kentish cider, made from Kentish apples. Set in the picturesque Gibbet Oak Farm, Nightingale offers tours through the family fruit farm, led by founder and cider maker Sam Nightingale himself. After a tour through the orchards, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a tutored tasting with a special taste of ciders direct from the tanks. Be sure to check out the September tour on 13th September.
Retail therapy
This region is bursting with independent shops, and when the need for a little therapy strikes, you’ll find us heading to Wye. Ticketyboo in the heart of Wye’s historic high street is a beautiful boutique boasting gifts, jewellery and homeware. While the iconic Stevenson Brothers in Bethersden is renowned for making bespoke handcrafted rocking horses that are literally pieces of art.
Harvest time
Remember when we mentioned Ashford and Tenterden’s vineyard region? With harvest time in full swing, it’s no wonder it’s made our hitlist. The choices are endless, but we’ll start with Brabourne Vineyard, a hidden gem set in the rolling Kent Downs. Wander through sun-drenched vines, enjoy a guided tasting of handcrafted wines, and soak up sweeping countryside views. Or how about Warehorne Vineyard, which offers an authentic, immersive English wine experience with panoramic views across the Romney Marsh? Set in 10.2 acres, your tour will round off with a tutored tasting of their delicious still wines.
Woodchurch Wine Estate is a single estate vineyard producing award-winning sparkling wines. Tour the low intervention vineyard, before enjoying a glass of their finest paired with locally produced boards and pizza in their on-site bar and restaurant. Another local favourite Oast Wood vineyard is surrounded by ancient woodland, which is a blend of ruby reds this season. Take in gorgeous views across the Rother Valley and sample their wines in their traditional Kentish barn tasting room.
Golfing greens
A crisp September day sounds like the perfect chance to work on that handicap. Tee off at London Beach Golf Club near Tenterden, where peaceful parkland, lakes, and expert coaching meet a relaxing spa stay, perfect for a laid-back golf break in the Kent countryside. Or why not swing into the scenic Tenterden Golf Club. Enjoy this 18-hole parkland course, welcoming clubhouse, and stunning countryside views.
Glorious gardens and the great outdoors
Come leaf-peeping time, Ashford and Tenterden’s countryside is simply picture-perfect. Prepare to be wowed as you head to Hole Park, spy russet-hued ancient trees, enjoy seasonal colour and explore the glorious blend of wild and formal gardens. What’s more, you’ll even be able to bring along your four-legged friends to enjoy the 200 acres of parkland and wide-ranging Wealden views. Godinton House and Gardens is a hidden gem on the outskirts of Ashford. Wander 12 acres of gardens, including Italian, walled and wild, and keep your eyes peeled for seasonal fruit and veg like pumpkins, squash and more adding splashes of seasonal colour. Treat yourself to homemade cakes in the tearoom or visit mid-October for their fantastic Autumn Fair.
In autumn we love visiting Singleton Environment Centre, a tranquil haven on the edge of Ashford. Explore woodland trails, spot wildlife, join eco-activities, and unwind at the café, all in a beautiful, sustainable setting that celebrates Kent’s natural charm.
Foodie favourites
The award-winning Frasers restaurant in Egerton is all about seasonal produce, and at this time of year in Kent, the food is plentiful. Set in a traditional oak framed barn, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the open countryside over a dinner of carefully selected produce from local farmers, artisans and even their very own kitchen garden. Expect hearty dishes, seasonal treats and a true taste of Kent. Now is the time for cosying up by a fire in a country pub and The Milk House at Sissinghurst is just the spot. Enjoy the freshest produce sourced from right on the doorstep, sip on Kentish ales and choose between delicious grazing boards from the bar or a relaxed dining experience in the beautiful dining room.
Stay the night
The ultimate autumn escape is capped off with the perfect accommodation, so this autumn you’ll find us checking into one of these beautiful Ashford spots. First up is Oxney Organic Estate – yes, you can actually stay at a vineyard! Set in the High Weald AONB, you’ll wake up to gorgeous views, with your pick of a luxurious five-bedroom farmhouse, converted barns or cute, cosy shepherd’s huts. Whichever you choose you’ll be a stone’s throw from the vineyard, with a vineyard tour adding the finishing touch to your stay. Or how about Fig Cottage at Brabourne Vineyard? This rural retreat comes complete with two bedrooms, garden with terrace and even a wood burner for those chilly autumn evenings.
For wide open views and glorious sunrises, Romney Marsh Shepherd’s Huts offer a real taste of the Kentish countryside. Surrounded by sheep pastures and breath-taking surroundings these traditional huts come complete with wood burning stove, firepit, en-suite and all you need for a relaxing stay. Wheatfields Glamping is another peaceful spot for a weekend getaway, offering two safari style tents and a bell tent, with all the luxuries you’d expect. Cosy up by the wood-burning stove, toast marshmallows by the firepit and gaze up at the stars from the warmth of your very own hot tub.
