The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Ashford to Brighton
Are you planning a road trip with your friends or family? Then look no further! The journey from Ashford to Brighton is filled with jaw-dropping scenery, unique attractions, and numerous landmarks. The trip will take you on a journey through some of the most picturesque sights England has to offer.
Before beginning the trip, it is crucial to ensure your car is in good condition, and you are familiar with the route. The journey is about two and a half hours, so it is essential to have comfortable clothes, a camera, and snacks to keep you all fueled up during the ride. With that said, let's get started on the adventures that await on the Ashford to Brighton road trip.
1. The Romney Marsh
The Romney Marsh is a vast area of flat, grassy land that spans approximately 100 square miles and spreads across three counties - Kent, Sussex, and Hampshire. It is a unique landscape of winding roads and canals, surrounded by clear blue skies and the occasional windmill. Along the stretch of marshland, visitors can explore the unique terrain, which includes vast salt marshes and dunes alongside the coastline. You can also take a stop at the picturesque medieval town of Rye, where you will be enchanted by the authentic charm of the town's history and surrounding countryside.
2. Dungeness
The next stop on your Ashford to Brighton road trip should be Dungeness. The former nuclear power station site on the Kent coast offers one of England's largest stretches of shingle shoreline with an unparalleled aesthetic. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings with a trip on the Model Railway, a miniature steam ride, or a stopover at the art galleries in Dungeness Village. For bird enthusiasts, a visit to the RSPB reserve is a must-see, especially during the winter months.
3. Hastings
Next, it's time to visit Hastings, which is a charming town and a popular tourist destination. The town offers an array of fun-filled attractions, including Smugglers Adventure, a pirate-themed attraction, Hastings Castle, and the award-winning Blue Reef Aquarium. While in Hastings, don't miss out on the opportunity to take a dip in the town's famous Victorian beach pool, which is Europe's largest inshore saltwater lido. The town also offers some great eateries and shopping for those who need to replenish their energy and explore local trends.
4. Birling Gap
As you reach East Sussex's coast, make a pit stop at Birling Gap, which is an area of natural beauty found beneath the South Downs in East Sussex. The picturesque area offers breathtaking views of the iconic chalk cliffs, which can be appreciated on a clifftop walk. The National Trust runs a visitor center that offers historical facts about the area's natural wonders, fossils, and rock formations. The stunning cliff edges provide several scenic viewpoints, allowing you to gaze upon miles of untouched sea and the Coral reef offshore.
5. Beachy Head
The final destination on the Ashford to Brighton road trip is Beachy Head, located just four miles from Eastbourne. The famous chalk headland is recognized as one of England's most breathtaking natural landmarks, offering cliffs standing at 162 meters above sea level. Upon arriving at the destination, visitors can enjoy the vast stretches of coastline and explore the meandering footpaths, which offer panoramic views of the sea and the chalk cliffs. The Beachy Head Lighthouse, located at the foot of the cliffs, is also a popular attraction and provides a perfect photo opportunity.
Conclusion
The journey from Ashford to Brighton boasts an impressive range of stunning sights and iconic landmarks that you won't want to miss out on. Each stop along the way presents a unique experience that captures the essence of England's natural beauty and history. If you're planning a road trip soon, make sure you add these destinations to your itinerary, and you will undoubtedly have a trip filled with beautiful memories and unforgettable experiences.