A Guide to Living in East Kent
- Whereshome
- Jan 30, 2023
- 3 min read
A Guide to Living in East Kent: Discover the Charm of the Garden of England
Known as the garden of England, Kent has long been a popular relocation spot for those looking to escape London. As the London boroughs have begun to cross into the Kent boundaries and transport links have expanded, the area has become increasingly expensive. But Kent’s popularity remains, and now extends across the county from the ever-popular Tunbridge Wells to the university city of Canterbury and down towards the Kent coast. The popular holiday spots of Whitstable, Margate, and Deal have become desirable relocation areas for the ex-London hipster. In this guide to living in East Kent, we take a quick look at some of the county’s most popular areas.
Canterbury
This charming city boasts a delightful mix of culture, retail therapy and a great food and bar scene. As a UNESCO world heritage site, the area benefits from stunning architecture and an array of history including the world-famous Canterbury Cathedral. As a University city the area feels vibrant and more fast paced than its neighbours and now benefits from a selection of cafes, bars and independent shops as well as the standard high street offering. The city also offers a wide selection of schooling options including well regarded Grammar schools. But for those looking in the independent sector, Kent College and St Edmunds both benefit from an exceptional reputation. Whilst the city is slightly further out of London than some commuters might like, central London can be reached within 90 minutes via direct train, so in the post-covid world of flexible working it is still a viable option. And what the area might lack in London convenience it has plenty to offer in the form of comparatively affordable housing, a short drive to the sandy beaches of the Kent coast and a short hop to the Eurotunnel at Folkestone.
Kent Coast
Starting with the ever-popular Margate, this beautiful seaside town was most notably captured by the artist, Turner who was known to have a particular soft spot for the areas amazing light. This artistic legacy has been cemented by spots such as The Turner Contemporary Gallery on the seafront and The Tracy Emin Foundation, which offers studio space to local artists.
The area has an ever-diversifying demographic which continues to bring new cultures, flavours and vibes to the town. And if the sandy beaches, great cafes and awesome art scene don’t sell you then let the reasonable rentals and fair sale prices lure you in. Down the road, pretty Deal is a possibly less hip but even prettier seaside town offering the perfect spot for cycling, strolling and seaside swims.
Benefiting from a community feel whilst still offering a lively array of things to do, the area boasts a busy Saturday market, delicatessens, independent shops, cafes, bars and restaurants and you can still buy your fish fresh off the boat from the local fishermen.
With a direct train in to London with decent property prices and characterful and quirky properties, Deal is a charming choice for anyone looking for a simpler life on the coast. And finally, we can’t not mention the super popular Whitstable. Perhaps best known for its oysters, insta-worthy independent shops and stunning castle. The area offers a charming seaside feel with a direct line in to London within 75 minutes making the area a commuter-possible spot. Property prices are elevated here due to its increasing tourist popularity but there are still deals to be found and the area has all the modern conveniences you could want whilst still benefiting from old-world seaside charm.
With regards to schooling along the coast there is a wide range of great options across both the state and independent sector. Chilton Primary School in Ramsgate, Kingsdown and Ringwould Primary School in the lovely little village of Kingsdown, Dover Grammar School, Herne C of E Infants in Herne Bay and Dane Court Grammar in Broadstairs are just some of the OFSTED ‘outstanding’ state schools available along the coast. And in the independent sector there is a wide selection including Northbourne Park Prep in Deal which is often referred to as ‘Hogwarts’ with its characterful buildings and imposing presence, as well as it’s fantastic reputation.
If you're considering relocating to East Kent, our guide to living in East Kent highlights the region's unique blend of countryside charm, coastal beauty, and vibrant communities. From the historic streets of Canterbury to the artistic hubs of Margate and the seaside charm of Deal and Whitstable, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking excellent schools, a peaceful lifestyle, or a bustling town atmosphere, East Kent has it all. Get in touch today, and let Whereshome help you make this wonderful part of the UK your home.
