About Ashford

Ashford is a market town in the county of Kent, located in south-east England. It lies within the TN23 postcode area and serves as a key transport hub, with a mainline railway station connecting it to London and other major cities. The town has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to Roman times, and it remains an important centre for trade and commerce in the region. Ashford is also home to the Ashford Designer Outlet, a large shopping destination that attracts visitors from across the area. The town has developed significantly in recent decades, with modern retail and leisure facilities complementing its traditional high street. Its position near the M20 motorway makes it easily accessible for those travelling by car. Ashford retains a strong sense of community and offers a range of cultural and recreational activities for residents and visitors alike.

School Ratings in Ashford

There are 45 schools in and around Ashford. Ray Allen Children's Centre and Great Chart Primary School are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 11 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Ashford

The average property price is £396K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £525K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Ashford

Recorded crime levels are higher than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Ashford, with 240 recorded incidents in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Ashford

Ashford sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are broadly typical for the area, sitting close to the national average. Household incomes are broadly in line with the national average.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Ashford

Broadband speeds in Ashford are generally strong, with superfast and ultrafast options widely available. Mobile coverage across 4G and 5G networks is reliable throughout most of the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 23,432 sales

Average Price £396K
£100 £40M
Detached £525K 6,661
Semi £352K 6,392
Terraced £284K 5,564
Flat £204K 3,594

Deprivation and Employment in Ashford IMD 2025

Ashford sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.

Overall Deprivation
5/10
Income
5/10
Employment
5/10
Education
5/10
Health
6/10
Housing
4/10
Living Environment
8/10
11,695 Children (0-15) 22%
34,072 Working Age 64%
9,667 Older (60+) 18%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 35.9% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 24.2% of over-60s in income-deprived households
Data from English Indices of Deprivation 2025 · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Crime in Ashford 1,668 crimes · January 2026

High Crime Area

Ashford sees higher than average levels of reported crime relative to its population. Violence & sexual offences represents the most frequently recorded category. This pattern is not uncommon in densely populated urban areas and does not necessarily reflect the experience of most residents.

641 Violence & Sexual Offences
240 Anti-Social Behaviour
157 Shoplifting
130 Other Theft
124 Criminal Damage & Arson
95 Drugs
71 Public Order
57 Other Crime
50 Burglary
45 Vehicle Crime
36 Weapons
9 Robbery
7 Theft from Person
6 Bicycle Theft
Local Policing
Data from data.police.uk · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.

Nearest Train Stations 6 stations

Ashford International Train Station 0.5 miles
Wye Train Station 3.9 miles
Pluckley Train Station 5.2 miles
Charing (Kent) Train Station 5.3 miles
Ham Street Train Station 5.5 miles
Appledore (Kent) Train Station 8.1 miles

Location

Local Government

District Ashford
County Kent
Ward Downs North
Constituency Ashford
Parish Chilham
Region South East