The Great Ashford-to-Mid Sussex Adventure

Are you planning a road trip from Ashford to Mid Sussex? Perhaps you're wondering what the best routes are or how long it'll take you to get there. No need to worry, we've got your back! In this article, we'll discuss the various travel options and the estimated travel time for each.

The M20 and M26 Route

The most direct route to get from Ashford to Mid Sussex is to take the M20 and the M26. This route spans approximately 50 miles and typically takes around an hour to drive. The M20 is a well-maintained road that runs from Ashford to the outskirts of London, while the M26 connects M20 to M25, which goes towards Mid Sussex. Although it is the most direct route, it also has tolls of £6.70 for cars.

If you're looking to take a break, there are plenty of places to stop along the way. Maidstone, just a few miles off the M20, has wonderful cultural attractions such as Kent Life and Leeds Castle. Another spot to visit is Sevenoaks, a charming town with stunning gardens, woodlands, and natural reserves.

The A28 and A26 Route

Another option is to take the A28 and then the A26. This route adds a few miles to the total journey, but it allows for a more scenic drive. The journey covers approximately 60 miles and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive, depending on traffic. This route has no tolls.

The A28 and A26 run through picturesque countryside, charming small towns, and historic sites. Canterbury, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a magnificent cathedral, makes for an excellent cultural detour. You can also stop in the idyllic market town of Tenterden, with its historic high street, independent shops, and tea rooms.

The A20 and M25 Route

If you're in no rush and want to take a leisurely drive, the A20 and M25 route is the one for you. The journey takes around 2 hours and covers approximately 75 miles. The A20 is a slow road, with several villages and towns to navigate, but it's perfect if you're looking to explore more of Kent's countryside. Similarly, you can also avoid any tolls on this route.

The historic town of Royal Tunbridge Wells, with its award-winning parks and gardens and high-end boutiques, is worth a stop. On the way to Mid Sussex, Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, is an essential visit. You can also explore Bluebell Railway in Sheffield Park, which offers a classic steam train ride through the scenic Sussex countryside.

The Conclusion

The route you choose will depend on your time, preference, and your desire for speed or leisure. However, with multiple possibilities for stopping along the way, no route is culturally unenriched. If you have enough time, we recommend splitting the journey into different sectors and exploring the options along the way.

Ashford to Mid Sussex is an enjoyable and straightforward journey through Southern England, where you can see some of the country's most striking landscapes. Whether you opt for the direct and fast M20 and M26 road, the scenic route on the A28 and A26, or the leisurely A20 and M25, you’re sure to have a great time on the road.