The Best Pubs in Ashford
Ashford’s pub scene is a rich tapestry woven from centuries of history and modern community spirit, where you can move from a timber-framed 16th-century inn to a lively riverside ale house in a single afternoon. Many pubs are set in historic buildings, from former coaching inns to a stunning 17th-century tithe barn, yet they all share a commitment to hearty, freshly cooked food and a deep respect for local ales and craft drinks. Whether you’re after a quiet pint by a roaring log fire, a sunny afternoon in a wisteria-draped garden, or a lively evening with live music and a game of darts, the town’s pubs welcome everyone from families to solo travellers. Come and discover why locals and visitors alike keep returning to the best pubs in Ashford.


1. The New Fox Inn
278 Hythe Rd, Willesborough, Ashford TN24 0QR, UK
Head to The New Fox Inn for a cracking blend of classic pub charm and modern comfort, where the 19th-century building invites you in for a pint of real ale or a perfectly poured cocktail. Their beer garden, draped in wisteria, is the ideal spot to soak up the sun with a drink in hand, while the menu delivers top-notch Sunday roasts and comforting classics like fish and chips. With live music, a dog-friendly policy, and plenty of screens for the big game, this welcoming spot is a true local gem for groups, sports fans, and anyone after a memorable meal.
Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


2. Old Mill
Mill Lane, Kennington, Ashford TN25 4DZ, UK
Tucked away by the river, The Old Mill is a beautifully historic pub that serves up generous, freshly cooked food alongside a fantastic selection of local ales, lagers, and a carefully chosen wine list. Whether you're sinking your teeth into a handmade burger or a 28-day dry aged steak, the portions are huge and the value is off the charts. With a welcoming team, a dog friendly policy, and plenty of outdoor seating, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Photo by Tim Sheerman-Chase — CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


3. Riverside Inn
79 Torrington Rd, Ashford TN23 7TG, UK
Just a five minute stroll across the bridge from the Outlet, the Riverside Inn is a true hidden gem nestled along the banks of the River Stour. This welcoming Ale and Feasting House serves up a fantastic selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, perfect for a relaxed afternoon in their beautiful riverside garden. With a menu of hearty, home cooked food, a fully enclosed garden for the kids, and a dog friendly policy in the bar and outdoors, it’s an idyllic spot for groups and families alike.


4. Rose Inn
Faversham Rd, Kennington, Ashford TN24 9AJ, UK
Step into The Rose Inn, a much loved former coaching inn that has been the heart of the Kennington community for 150 years, offering a perfect blend of cosy local charm and lively energy. With fresh Shepherd Neame cask ales, a fantastic wine selection, and generous homemade food served in ample portions, it’s the ideal spot to unwind after a country walk or a long drive. Whether you’re catching live sport on one of four TVs, enjoying the outdoor seating with your dog, or joining in on a pub quiz or poker night, this welcoming gem is a brilliant find for groups and solo visitors alike.
Photo by Tim Sheerman-Chase — CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


5. The Flying Horse Boughton Aluph
Wye Rd, Boughton Lees, Ashford TN25 4HH, UK
Discover The Flying Horse in Boughton Aluph, a true hidden gem run by a welcoming team who go above and beyond for every guest. This charming pub serves up a fantastic selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, all paired with mouthwatering food like perfectly cooked garlic and chilli prawns. With a dog friendly policy, live music, and plenty of space for groups both inside and on the outdoor patio, it’s the ideal stop for a hearty lunch, a Sunday roast, or a relaxed evening. The kind, compassionate spirit here makes every visit feel special, whether you’re passing through in a camper or settling in for a proper meal.
Photo by Mertbiol — CC0 via Wikimedia Commons


6. Swan & Dog
The St, Great Chart, Ashford TN23 3AN, UK
Welcome to the Swan & Dog, a beautiful 16th century timber framed Kentish pub where history meets hearty hospitality. Settle in for a proper pint of Shepherd Neame ale, a glass of wine, or a expertly mixed cocktail, all while enjoying generous, locally sourced dishes in the cozy bar or outdoor seating area. This dog friendly spot is perfect for groups, with live music adding to the lively, welcoming feel of a true community local.
Photo by Oast House Archive — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


7. The Blacksmiths Arms
84 The St, Willesborough, Ashford TN24 0NA, UK
Set in a handsome historic building, The Blacksmiths Arms is a welcoming local that serves up a cracking pint alongside a seriously good selection of wines and cocktails. The freshly cooked food, from perfectly seared sea bass to monster chips and a top notch steak and ale pie, is consistently delicious and comes at a fair price. With a dog friendly policy, plenty of outdoor seating, and a team that makes every guest feel right at home, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Photo by Julian P Guffogg — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


8. Hare and Hounds Ashford
Potters Corner, Maidstone road, Ashford TN25 4NR, UK
Nestled on the A20, this beautifully preserved 18th-century pub charms with its oak beams, rustic character, and a roaring log fire that makes every visit feel wonderfully cosy. The team here is incredibly welcoming, serving up a great selection of beers and wines alongside hearty, delicious food that keeps guests coming back for more. With outdoor seating, a dog-friendly policy, and plenty of room for groups, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch, a proper Sunday roast, or a lively quiz night.
Photo by N Chadwick — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


9. The Locomotive
65-67 Beaver Rd, Ashford TN23 7SF, UK
Just a ten minute walk from the station or the outlet, The Locomotive is a wonderfully friendly local that feels like a proper hidden gem. Pull up a stool by the dartboard or grab a pint of their excellent draft cider in the well tended beer garden, which even boasts a bouncy castle and play area for the kids. With a pool table, live music, and screens for the big match, this dog friendly spot serves a cracking selection of beers, wines, and spirits in a space that welcomes families, groups, and solo visitors with equal warmth.
Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


10. Singleton Barn
Hoxton Cl, Ashford TN23 4TY, UK
Housed in a stunning 17th-century tithe barn with soaring oak beams and open rafters, Singleton Barn is a truly special pub where historic charm meets contemporary style. They pour an exceptional selection of ales, wines, and cocktails, while the menu features generously portioned, freshly prepared dishes like a massive smash burger and a showstopping fish and chips. With a huge projector screen for live sports, regular live music, a dog-friendly policy, and plenty of outdoor seating, this welcoming spot is a brilliant choice for groups, sports fans, and anyone after a top-notch meal.
Photo by David Anstiss — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons




