Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Ashford to Wealden

England is famous for its idyllic countryside drives, and the route from Ashford to Wealden is one of the most visually stunning. The journey is just under an hour, and it takes drivers through some of the prettiest towns and villages of the Kent countryside. The drive from Ashford to Wealden is an excellent choice for people looking to get away from their busy lives and enjoy some peaceful, picturesque moments.

The halfway point of the journey is Cranbrook, KEN. Cranbrook is a small market town built on the outskirts of the Kentish Weald. The town is a hub of medieval architecture and a living exhibit of English heritage. The famous historic landmark in the town is the Union Windmill, built in 1814, which is still operational and is now a museum. Cranbrook boasts of numerous restaurants, cafes, and traditional pubs offering delicious food and drink.

1. The Bicycle Bakery

The Bicycle Bakery is a quaint little café, located in the middle of the picturesque village of Goudhurst, just outside of Cranbrook. The popular café-cum-bakery serves fresh sandwiches, cakes, and all-day breakfast. The Bicycle Bakery prides itself on buying locally sourced ingredients for its food, and its décor reflects a unique rustic charm. The café also features a cycling store, to cater to the biking enthusiasts in the area.

Favorite Food: Sourdough sandwich, and homemade Lemon Drizzle cake.

2. Bedgebury National Pinetum

Bedgebury National Pinetum is one of the UK's most extensive collections of conifers and has a world-renowned reputation for its outstanding collection of rare and endangered trees. Situated at the heart of the High Weald's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Bedgebury Pinetum is the perfect place to explore on a leisurely walk or bike ride. The Pinetum offers cycle routes tailored to cyclists' abilities, a GoApe adventure park, and an excellent children's play area.

Favorite Food: Pack a picnic and enjoy it on the lawns.

3. Gray-Nicolls Sports

Gray-Nicolls is an iconic cricket bat manufacturer and has been making cricket bats in its Cranbrook factory for over 160 years. It is the world's leading cricket gear manufacturer, and the Gray-Nicolls factory tour is a must-visit place for all cricket enthusiasts. Learn about the history of cricket and the manufacturing process from the experts. The factory has a shop where visitors can purchase Gray-Nicolls sports gear, cricket bats, and accessories.

Favorite Food: Tea and biscuits.

4. Tenterden Vineyards

The small town of Tenterden is located in the heart of Kent wine country. The town is known for producing some of the best wines in the country. The Tenterden Vineyards is a small, family-run winery that produces award-winning English wine. Visit the vineyard on a wine tasting tour and try the different varieties of wine on offer.

Favorite Food: Tuck into a platter of local cheese and charcuterie.

5. Dungeness

A trip to Dungeness is a must-do on any journey from Ashford to Wealden. Located on the southern coast of Kent, Dungeness is probably the UK's only desert. The unique landscape of this shingle desert has inspired many British artists and writers, and the area is protected as a National Nature Reserve. Visitors can explore the stunning coastline, visit the lighthouse museum, and enjoy a traditional fish and chips meal at one of Dungeness's famous fish restaurants.

Favorite Food: Fish & Chips from the Pilot Inn pub.

The drive from Ashford to Wealden is one of the most spectacular routes that England has to offer. The five locations mentioned above are only a few surprises that the journey has to offer. Kent is famous for its beautiful countryside, local produce, and rich history. A trip by car is the perfect way to experience and explore the region. The drive from Ashford to Wealden has something for everyone. Visitors can discover quaint towns, historic landmarks, beautiful vineyards, and unique landscapes. A trip to the Kent countryside is a perfect day out for anyone looking for a leisurely drive and a chance to relax.