Beyond the stores, Ashford Designer Outlet is the perfect starting point for discovering Kent's exceptional food and drink scene. From acclaimed restaurants and award-winning vineyards to artisan breweries, the Garden of England offers unforgettable experiences for every palate.

Dine on fresh seasonal seafood with sweeping sea views at Rocksalt in Folkestone, enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting at Curious Brewery, or venture into the Kent countryside to explore celebrated vineyards including Chapel Down, Hush Heath and Gusbourne. With tours, tastings and locally produced wines to enjoy, it's the perfect way to savour more of Kent during your visit.

Just a short journey from Ashford Designer Outlet, in the beautiful Kent countryside, you’ll find Gusbourne: one of England’s most celebrated wine estates and a wonderful destination for a day out.

Set among rolling vineyards in Appledore, Gusbourne is known for crafting exceptional vintage English sparkling and still wines, all made from estate-grown grapes. Every bottle reflects a single growing season, with fruit hand-picked from Gusbourne’s own vineyards and crafted with patience, precision and care. It is this attention to detail that has earned Gusbourne a place among the world’s leading wine estates.

In 2025, Gusbourne was named British Luxury Brand of the Year at the prestigious Walpole British Luxury Awards, recognising the craftsmanship, creativity and excellence that define the very best of modern British luxury. The estate was also ranked No.28 in The World’s 50 Best Vineyards 2025, celebrating not only the quality of its wines, but the beauty, hospitality and experience of a visit to its home in Kent.

For anyone planning a trip to Ashford Designer Outlet, Gusbourne offers the perfect way to turn your visit into even more of an event. After browsing the shops, continue into the countryside and spend time at The Nest, Gusbourne’s elegant tasting room and cellar door, where panoramic vineyard views set the scene for a relaxed glass of English sparkling wine.

Visitors can enjoy a range of experiences throughout the year, from classic vineyard tours and tutored tastings to more leisurely lunches and seasonal events. A guided tour takes you through the vines, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how Gusbourne grows its grapes and crafts its wines, before returning to The Nest for a seated tasting of its award-winning collection. For those who prefer to slow down and savour the setting, lunch experiences offer the chance to pair fine English wine with carefully chosen seasonal dishes.