LOVEASHFORD
LOVE ASHFORD CONT .
For history buffs and garden lovers , a trip to Belmont House ( www . belmonthouse . org ) is certain to satisfy and keep you enthralled . This beautiful Georgian house is set in its own parkland amid stunning views of the rolling Kent countryside and is a completely unspoilt and distinctive example of the work of the architect Samuel Wyatt . Belmont houses a collection of antiques that reflect six generations of continuous occupation by one family , containing fascinating mementos of the family ' s history and travels - including the finest private collection of clocks and watches in Britain . The gardens at Belmont are full of interest throughout every season . The kitchen garden was originally designed by Lady Arabella Lennox-Boyd and has beautiful Victorian greenhouses along with figs , hops , soft fruits and traditional apple and pear varieties . The walled garden contains a pond and is adjacent to the pinetum complete with grotto . Don ’ t leave without a cup of tea with a slice of delicious homemade cake in their courtyard tea rooms .
As well as these destinations surrounding Ashford that celebrate the heritage of the area and make for great days out , Ashford ’ s vibrant town centre is not to be missed . Aside from the new development Elwick Place ( head to pages 40-41 to find out more ) with its collection of artisan shops , great places to eat and drink and a whole host of activity-based venues , Ashford ’ s town is home to a traditional high street full of treasures . For light , guilt-free , but delicious
bites during the day Salata (@ salata _ ashford ) is the place to go . Serving delicious plates of fresh whole foods in the form of crunchy salads , buddha bowls , wraps , sandwiches and more , Salata caters for gluten free , vegan and vegetarian diets . After filling up on lots of goodness , wander over to Made in Ashford (@ madeinashford ), a collaborative shop of locally made gifts , crafts and more . From sweet seasonal decorations , such as personalised cat baubles , to handmade candles and cosmetic bags , you ’ re sure to find a treasure here .
Evenings spent in Ashford ’ s high street are sure to be full of fun and frivolity too . Start your night with a splendid home-cooked Italian meal by husbandand-wife run , Amici (@ amici _ ashford ). An intimate welcoming venue that feels like a Tuscan home-away-from-home , Amici comes equipped with a neat bar ready to serve glasses of good wine as you scour over a menu created by celebrated chef Massimo Deidda . Some of Amici ’ s most popular favourites include the golden fried calamari fritti , complemented with garlic and lemon mayonnaise , and homemade arancini made from Sicilian smoked salmon , peas and rice with arrabbiata sauce . The mouth-watering starters make the perfect prelude for delectable main meals , all handmade with passion , craft and an original touch . These include dishes such as the ‘ gamberi linguine ’, a sautéed king prawn linguine with cherry tomatoes , garlic and chilli in a white wine and tomato sauce - bellissima !
BELMONT HOUSE
AMICI
37