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If you’re thinking of moving to southeastern England, you must have considered the best places to live in Kent. Kent is one of the nicest counties to settle down in this region, offering a range of amenities and attractions.
Typically, finding a suitable neighbourhood in any county will take quite a bit of time and energy, so having the compiled list will make things a bit easier. You’ll find the top choices, what makes them special and some of the popular landmarks close to them.
Table Of Contents
Top 10 Best Places To Live In Kent
Kent is a cultural hub with plenty of places worth visiting. A lot of them could be great places to potentially live. Here are the top choices:
1. Deal
If you’re into seaside living, the charming town of Deal is the way to go. It’s one of the most beautiful coastal towns that can offer awesome experiences for everyone.
Here, you can admire the coast as you take strolls along the pebble beach. There are plenty of restaurants for seafood lovers to feast on delicious dishes.
The sense of community is strong, making it an inviting place to call home. You’ll have convenient access to nearby towns and proximity to London via train. The real estate in Deal caters to diverse housing preferences, so you’re sure to find something that suits you.
The farmers market in Deal is not just a shopping experience; it’s a social event. Every week, you can choose from a range of farm shops where you can buy local produce and talk to the locals. There are plenty of independent shops in the lively centre that you could shop at as well.
The White Cliffs of Dover are less than an hour away if you want to enjoy a relaxing time staring over the waters. For more waterside experience, see the best beaches you can visit in Kent.
Kent is nicknamed the Garden of England because of its abundance of orchards and hop gardens.
2. Royal Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells got its royal status from Edward VII back in 1909, and it’s an area of the county that is renowned for its elegant architecture, scenic parks and cultural attractions. It is surrounded by the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so anyone who appreciates the beauty of rolling hills will enjoy living there.
Because of its excellent schools, Tunbridge Wells tends to be one of the first choices for families with kids who want to move to the Garden of England.
There are tons of local shops, pubs and eateries that can enrich your life in Tunbridge Wells. One of these is the Pantiles, which offers an amazing shopping experience.
Royal Tunbridge Wells has excellent transport links and provides easy access to major cities. If you wish, you can be at Charing Cross in less than an hour. You can also visit nearby villages, such as Rusthall and Speldhrust, to experience rural charm. The fact that Tunbridge Wells is located in close proximity to both urban centres and smaller villages makes it a strategic location to live in.
3. Canterbury
While coastal living is great if you’re seeking tranquillity, the best place to get a real sense of Kent’s history is Canterbury. As you wander through the city’s streets, you’ll see charming cobbled streets, breathtaking cathedrals and historic landmarks.
Canterbury has a range of attractions nearby, one of which is Hever Castle, which is just a short distance away. The city offers a diverse shopping experience, from independent stores to modern shopping complexes. There’s also a farmer’s market for food items.
Canterbury offers a range of cultural activities that allow you to learn about its history and meet people. The Canterbury Festival is a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar.
The good transport links in Canterbury will connect you to major cities in Kent.
4. Belvedere
Located in southeast London, near the boundary with Kent, Belvedere is a diverse and urban area with a rich history.
The community comprises a mix of housing including Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses and more modern house projects. When it comes to local amenities, the town has a range of shops, schools and healthcare facilities, making it a good choice to live in.
Beleverdere also boasts various parks and green spaces, which will provide you with a place to relax and enjoy outdoor activities. Lesnes Abbey Woods, a nearby nature reserve also offers great walking trails.
5. Sevenoaks
Sevenoaks offers a great mix of rich heritage with scenic landscapes. If you like a low-key atmosphere, you’ll love living there.
The major attraction in this town is Knole House. It’s a National Trust property, surrounded by a deer park. History buffs can admire impressive architecture and a collection of art and antiques. And if you want to see the family home of Churchill, Chartwell is the way to go.
Animal lovers can easily stop by Eagle Heights Wildlife Park, the UK’s largest Bird of Prey Centres with over 50 species.
6. Ashford
Officially a market town, Ashford is a perfect place for those who wish to live in a place that maintains its rural charm but still offers an interesting hub of activities to try. You’ll have markets to shop at, a school to send your kids to, and nature to admire.
There are a lot of family-friendly amenities in the town, such as parks and playgrounds. Ashford’s strategic location within the county also makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider region.
Check out our list of the best things to do in Ashford.
7. Whitstable
If you’re a fan of vibrant colours and coastal vistas, life in Whitstable will be a blast. Here, you can witness traditional fishing boats, feast on delicious food and enjoy the art scene. The town is also renowned for its oyster industry. The traditional fishing cottages often boast colourful facades and much of the residential architecture dates back to the Victorian era.
You’ll get to explore a diverse range of dining establishments, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce. Other than being aesthetically pleasing, the town also has high-quality schools your kids can attend.
8. Rochester
Rochester is a historic town with a heritage that spans centuries. It boasts well-preserved landmarks, so if you decide to live there you’ll have a range of historical places to visit and explore. In addition to its historic charm, Rochester offers a range of attractions, including Rochester Castle and vibrant art galleries.
The town provides a wealth of educational and recreational opportunities for families. Its strong sense of community brings residents together to celebrate shared interests and cultural traditions.
9. Sandwich
Another captivating destination for history enthusiasts, Sandwich is a coastal town steeped with mediaeval charm. The town has narrow, winding streets, timber-framed buildings and historic structures that will transport you back in time. And in those very historical buildings, you can treat yourself to drinks from traditional pubs.
You can also walk by the sandy beaches, dunes and nature reserve and take in the refreshing sea air. Sandwich is not just bubbling with attractions, it offers a range of amenities for families including schools, pubs and shops.
See our guide to dog-friendly beaches in Kent if you’re looking for some waterside fun with your furry friend.
10. West Malling
West Malling is a charming market town with a strong community spirit, so if you’re an extrovert, you’ll have a blast there. The residents are friendly and will gladly welcome you in the community. It boasts a selection of traditional pubs and cosy cafes.
The town also hosts regular markets, which adds vibrancy to the town centre. You can roam around the independent shops and buy some fresh local produce. Also, Maidstone, one of the main attractions in Kent, is close by, so you’ll get the chance to explore it.
Is Kent A Good Place To Live?
Yes, Kent is a good place to live in. It offers a mix of historical charms, picturesque landscapes and proximity to both urban and rural places. Garden of England is a great choice for those who work in London but want to live in a more relaxed and scenic environment. The county also boasts numerous reputable schools, which makes it a compelling choice for families.
See our guide to things to do when moving house to better plan your removal.
Cost Of Living In Kent
The cost of living in Kent can vary depending on factors such as location, lifestyle and individual spending choices. On average, a single person will spend about £854 in a month, while a family of four will need about £3,321. The education of children might involve additional school fees, in case you want to enrol them in a more expensive school.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s The Safest Place To Live In Kent?
Bearsted is the safest place to live in Kent. When it comes to crime rate, Kent is considered to be among the 20 most dangerous counties in England. However, there are various areas that are considered safe and have lower crime rates. Other safe places include Herne & Broomfield and Kings Hill.
What Areas In Kent Are Family-Friendly?
Royal Tunbridge Wells, Canterbury, Ashford and Sevenoaks are family-friendly areas in Kent. All of these areas have high-quality schools and are considered good choices for families. The recreational activities combined with the historic ambience will enrich your children’s lives, and the wide range of pubs and eateries will provide you with awesome family outings.
Is Kent Close To London?
Yes, Kent is close to London. Many areas in Kent are well-connected to London St Pancras station by train so you can travel quickly and arrive in just over an hour. If your job requires you to travel outside of Kent, contact SDVH for economy car hire deals to ensure a cost-effective and comfortable journey.
What’s The Most Affordable Place To Live In Kent?
Swale is the most affordable place to live in Kent. As with any region, individual circumstances and lifestyle preferences play a significant role in determining affordability. The local economy and job market can also influence overall affordability. But when it comes to house prices, Swale is the cheapest area in Kent, with an average price of £292,473, while the average income of residents is £36,859.
What Are The Best Attractions In Kent?
The best attractions in Kent are Canterbury Cathedral, Leeds Castle, Dover Castle and Hever Castle. Those are just the tip of the iceberg, as Kent boasts a wide range of attractions for different kinds of people and interests. You’ll have plenty of natural wonders, coastal sights and historical landmarks to explore.
Conclusion
No matter if you want to enjoy the community spirit of rural villages, admire the natural beauty or learn history, Kent is a place that can offer you that. With its extensive transportation links, you can reach many major urban cities in just over an hour. If you’re moving, you can hire a vehicle that will transport all your belongings quickly and conveniently. And with the list of best places to live in Kent, you can easily decide which location in the county fits your needs.
