Best Places To Live In Kent Uk: Complete Guide & Key Details
So, you're thinking about a move to Kent, the "Garden of England"? That's a cracking choice, if I do say so myself! It’s a county that just oozes charm, with its rolling hills, bustling market towns, and that stunning coastline. But with so many lovely spots, where do you even begin to look? Don't fret, we're about to take a leisurely stroll through some of the best places to live in Kent, all explained in a way that's as relaxed as a Sunday afternoon nap.
Why should you care, you ask? Well, finding the right place to call home is a biggie. It's where you'll be raising your family, where you’ll walk your dog (or dream of getting one!), where you’ll pop to the shops for your morning croissant, and where you’ll hopefully feel that warm, fuzzy feeling of belonging. Kent offers a bit of everything, from city buzz to countryside peace, and we're here to help you find your perfect slice of it.
The Coastal Charms: Salty Air and Sandy Toes
Let's start with a dip in the sea, shall we? Kent's coastline is seriously impressive, and living by the coast offers a lifestyle that many dream of. Think weekend fish and chips on the pier, bracing morning walks with the salty wind in your hair, and the sound of the waves lulling you to sleep.
Margate: The Hipster Haven with a Creative Spark
Margate has undergone a sensational transformation. Once a bit rough around the edges, it’s now a magnet for artists, creatives, and anyone with a penchant for cool. Turner Contemporary gallery is a must-visit, and the regenerated Old Town is brimming with independent shops, quirky cafes, and fantastic restaurants. It feels alive, vibrant, and just a little bit exciting. It's the kind of place where you might bump into someone wearing a rather stylish hat while queuing for coffee. If you’re after a lively, artistic vibe with a gorgeous sandy beach thrown in, Margate could be your oyster.
Imagine this: You’re enjoying a flat white in a trendy cafe, the smell of freshly baked pastries wafting through the air, and you can see the sea glinting just a few streets away. Sounds pretty good, right? Plus, the train links to London are decent, so you can have your seaside bliss without being totally cut off.
Whitstable: Oysters, Independent Spirit, and That Seaside Feel
Ah, Whitstable. This charming fishing town is famous for its delicious oysters (obviously!) and its wonderfully independent spirit. It’s a place that hasn’t lost its soul. The harbour is still a working hub, the high street is packed with independent boutiques and bookstores, and the beach huts are iconic. It’s a little more laid-back than Margate, perhaps, but just as appealing. It's the sort of place where everyone seems to know each other, and there’s a real sense of community.
Picture yourself strolling along the shingle beach, a bag of Whitstable's finest oysters in hand (okay, maybe you’ll buy them from a stall!). The air is fresh, the seagulls are squawking their familiar tune, and you feel utterly content. If you love a place with history, character, and a genuine seaside feel, Whitstable is a strong contender.
The Quintessential Countryside: Green Valleys and Village Life
If city life isn't your cup of tea, and you dream of birdsong and rambling walks, Kent’s countryside is your oyster. It’s idyllic, peaceful, and offers a truly wonderful quality of life.
Sevenoaks: Upscale Living with a Touch of Nature
Sevenoaks is a bit of a jewel in Kent's crown. It’s a beautiful, affluent town with excellent schools, a bustling town centre, and proximity to stunning natural beauty, including the magnificent Knole Park. Think grand houses, manicured gardens, and a general air of sophisticated calm. It’s the sort of place where you might see a farmer’s market selling organic produce right next to a designer boutique. Perfect for families looking for a prestigious postcode with plenty of green space.
Imagine picking up your morning paper from the local shop, then heading for a walk through Knole Park, spotting deer roaming freely. It's that blend of convenience and country charm that makes Sevenoaks so attractive. And the train links are excellent, making commutes to London perfectly manageable.
Plaxtol & Ightham: Picture-Perfect Villages for That Dreamy Life
These are the kinds of villages that pop into your head when you think of quintessential English countryside. Think thatched cottages, ancient churches, cosy pubs, and village greens. Plaxtol and Ightham (pronounced 'eye-tam', don't let it trip you up!) offer that sought-after village lifestyle. Life here is slower, more connected, and wonderfully peaceful. You’ll get to know your neighbours, the local baker will know your usual order, and your weekends will be filled with country walks and pub lunches.
Picture this: You’re sitting outside a centuries-old pub, a pint of local ale in hand, the sun warming your face. Children are playing on the village green, and the only rush is the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves. It’s pure escapism, but with the convenience of being a short drive from larger towns and amenities. If you’re yearning for that tranquil village idyll, these are the places to be.
The Market Town Magic: Bustling Hubs with Local Charm
Kent has some truly fantastic market towns. These are places that have a real heart and soul, offering a great mix of shopping, dining, and community events. They’re often vibrant and full of character, without the overwhelming rush of a big city.
Tunbridge Wells: Elegant and Eclectic
Royal Tunbridge Wells is a town that strikes a wonderful balance. It’s elegant, with its famous Pantiles – a beautiful colonnaded walkway lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. But it’s also got a lively, modern side. You’ll find a great shopping scene, a thriving arts and culture scene, and plenty of green spaces to explore, including the stunning Dunorlan Park. It’s a town that appeals to a wide range of people, from young professionals to families.
Think about enjoying afternoon tea on the Pantiles, the gentle murmur of conversation around you, then perhaps catching a show at the Assembly Hall Theatre. It’s a town that offers a sophisticated lifestyle with a friendly face. And again, it’s well-connected for travel.
Ashford: Growing and Developing with Great Transport Links
Ashford is a town that’s really going places. It’s a major regeneration hub with excellent transport links, most notably its High-Speed 1 rail connection to London St Pancras in under 40 minutes. This makes it a fantastic option for commuters. It also boasts a growing town centre with a good range of shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. It’s a place that’s dynamic and forward-thinking, with a real sense of opportunity.
Imagine grabbing a quick, delicious meal in one of Ashford’s many eateries after a brisk walk in the nearby countryside, knowing you can be back in London in a flash if you need to be. It's the perfect blend of practical convenience and access to the Kentish charm. If you’re looking for a town that’s bustling, developing, and perfectly positioned, Ashford is definitely worth a look.
Kent's Appeal: More Than Just Pretty Scenery
So, why is Kent such a fantastic place to live? Well, beyond the obvious beauty, it’s the sheer variety that sets it apart. You can have your heart set on living by the sea one week, and then find yourself falling in love with a sleepy village the next. Kent caters to all sorts of lifestyles.
It’s about the little things, isn’t it? It’s the knowing the farmer at the local market, it’s the friendly wave from a neighbour, it’s the taste of fresh Kentish strawberries in the summer. It’s about a quality of life that’s increasingly hard to find.
And let’s not forget the food and drink! From those famous oysters to award-winning vineyards and endless farm shops, Kent truly is a foodie paradise. Imagine popping to a local farm shop and picking up some truly gorgeous produce for dinner – it’s a simple pleasure that makes life feel that little bit more special.
Ultimately, finding the best place to live in Kent is a personal journey. It’s about visiting these places, soaking up the atmosphere, and imagining yourself there. Will you be enjoying a bracing walk along the coast? Or perhaps a leisurely Sunday lunch in a cosy country pub? Whatever your dream, Kent likely has a corner of it waiting for you. So, pack your bags (or at least your imagination!) and start exploring – your perfect Kentish home awaits!