As Christmas approaches people start to think of all the different things you can do over the Christmas period. Christmas is one of the only times people get to spend with their families and friends, so they don’t want to be stuck in busy department stores or shopping centres.

If you are looking for something different but still traditional this Christmas then you may want to try out Ashford.

Ashford is set in the beautiful countryside of Kent and has links to most of the major cities in the UK. There is lot’s to see and do in Ashford this Christmas and plenty of events to keep you busy and have fun.

Leeds Castle is in Kent near Ashford, although many mistake the 9th Century Castle for being in Yorkshire near to the city of Leeds. Leeds Castle is host to many visitors all year round and the idyllic surroundings make it perfect for a traditional Christmas break. The organisers have not failed to deliver this year with numerous events coming up over the festive season.

For those who want to try out Christmas shopping with a difference then I would advise coming along to the traditional festive fair at Leeds Castle. The festive fair is on at the end of November and promises authentic gifts and treats and unique ideas for presents. You can surprise your friends and family with a Christmas item that is really different and shows how much you care. The Fair has food and drink stalls as well as gift ideas available for sale so keep the weekend of the 19th and 20th November free to get your Christmas started early.

‘Christmas at the Castle’ is a fun affair for children and adults alike and if you have little ones who are excited about Santa Clause then you should definitely stay in Ashford as from the 5th December to Christmas Eve there is a Santa’s Grotto and the castle and grounds are beautifully decorated. There are day rates and evening rates so you can organise your time in the area to see everything. However, we would recommend seeing the Christmas decorations at night as they would melt the heart of any Christmas Scrooge.

For Christmas and New Years Eve the Castle have organised dinners in both the Castle and Fairfax Hall; be wined and dined (suitable for all budgets) and have the option of staying at the castle or in your own Ashford hotel. The rates are different for each event and obviously the New Years Eve tickets are limited as they are only for the one night whereas the Castle Christmas Party is for 2 nights.

As you can see there is plenty to do in Ashford this Christmas so get a hotel booked and see which events you and your friends or family want to do.