Known as ‘The Garden of England’, Kent offers everything from quaint seaside towns to country villages. Modern seafront homes, barn conversions, red brick family houses, fisherman’s cottages, and terraces are all available in this area. Some towns, like Sevenoaks, are popular commuter towns, offering several trains per hour into Central London. If you tire of the majestic white cliffs and beautiful downs, you can travel from Canterbury to Calais, France in under an hour. There are excellent schools throughout the region, and family home prices will seem like a steal to those moving out of London. From water sports to horse riding, and with nearly almost a hundred golf clubs, there is no shortage of activities the whole family will enjoy - but if you do find you miss London, it’s only a short train ride away.
Ashford is a large market town in Kent, positioned in the heart of the county and often regarded as a key gateway to both the Kent countryside and continental Europe. With a history dating back to the Domesday Book, Ashford has evolved into a thriving community that balances its historical roots with modern conveniences. The town is characterised by its mix of traditional high street, contemporary shopping outlets, and landscaped public parks.
Aylesford is a historic village nestled on the banks of the River Medway in Kent, close to the larger towns of Maidstone and Rochester. Known for its ancient bridge, picturesque riverside scenery, and the iconic Carmelite Friary, Aylesford blends heritage with a semi-rural feel. The village centre retains a traditional charm, with historic buildings lining its quaint high street, while modern residential developments on its outskirts provide a blend of old and new lifestyles.
Birchington is a coastal village set on the north-east Kent coast, just west of Margate and on the edge of Thanet. Famous for its Victorian and Edwardian character, Birchington boasts a strong village identity, attractive tree-lined avenues, and a picturesque seafront with views across Minnis Bay. The area merges the ease of seaside living with the convenience of local amenities, offering a distinctive combination of rural and urban experiences.
Broadstairs is a coastal town situated on the Isle of Thanet in East Kent, renowned for its sandy beaches, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and literary connections with Charles Dickens. The town exudes a classic seaside charm while blending historical intrigue with a laid-back, community-driven atmosphere.
Canterbury is a historic cathedral city set in the heart of Kent, southeast England. Best known for its magnificent Canterbury Cathedral – seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the city is rich in medieval architecture, literature, and heritage. Narrow cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and an atmospheric city centre blend with modern amenities, giving Canterbury a unique charm that draws tourists, students, and residents alike.
Chatham, situated on the River Medway in North Kent, forms part of the historic Medway Towns alongside Rochester and Gillingham. The area is widely recognised for its rich maritime history, most notably linked to the longstanding Chatham Dockyard, which played a pivotal role in British naval history and now draws visitors as a major heritage attraction. Today, Chatham offers a blend of urban amenities and riverside scenery, with regeneration transforming parts of the town into popular destinations for cultural events and leisure.
Cranbrook, situated in the heart of the Kentish Weald, is a small historic market town renowned for its picturesque streets, timber-framed buildings, and strong sense of heritage. Its location puts residents within easy reach of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, creating an attractive backdrop for daily life. The town centre is compact but characterful, with independent shops, local bakeries, and a selection of cosy cafés lending Cranbrook a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Dartford is a bustling town situated in northwest Kent, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern convenience. Located just 18 miles southeast of Central London, Dartford attracts a diverse community, from families and young professionals to retirees. The town's riverside location on the Darent makes it notable for its natural scenery, while its rich industrial and market town heritage is evident in landmarks like the Dartford Borough Museum and the preserved High Street architecture. Dartford is also widely recognized for its rich musical history, being the birthplace of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones.
Deal is a picturesque seaside town located on the east coast of Kent, nestled between Dover and Sandwich. Known for its historic charm, maritime heritage, and sweeping pebble beach, Deal offers residents a relaxed lifestyle by the sea. Distinguished by its Georgian and Victorian architecture, winding lanes, and a lively seafront, the town has successfully blended its rich history with a thriving cultural scene.
Dover, set on the southeast coast of England in Kent, is renowned for its dramatic White Cliffs and its pivotal role throughout British history. Overlooking the narrowest part of the English Channel, the town has long served as a gateway between the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Its strategic position has shaped both its architecture – notably, Dover Castle – and its enduring maritime culture.
Edenbridge is a historic market town nestled in the district of Sevenoaks, Kent, close to the Surrey border. It’s renowned for its classic High Street lined with medieval timber-framed buildings and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Edenbridge sits amidst beautiful countryside, with the River Eden meandering through, creating a scenic backdrop for daily life. The town is popular among families, commuters and retirees who appreciate both tranquil surroundings and convenient amenities.
Faversham, situated in Kent’s picturesque Swale district, is one of England’s oldest market towns with a celebrated heritage and distinct character. The town is renowned for its charming medieval streets, bustling markets, and proximity to the Kentish countryside. Faversham is famous for its thriving community, historic buildings, and connections to local industries such as brewing and agriculture. The area appeals to a broad range of residents: families attracted by schools and green spaces, commuters drawn by reliable rail links to London, retirees seeking a quieter pace of life, and history enthusiasts keen to explore the town’s rich past.
Folkestone is a historic seaside town set along the coast of Kent, facing the English Channel. Known for its picturesque harbour and vibrant Creative Quarter, Folkestone blends coastal charm with artistic spirit. Its waterfront, grassy Leas promenade, historic streets, and pebble beaches make the town popular with both day trippers and those seeking a slower pace of life.
Gillingham is a town situated in the county of Kent, forming part of the Medway unitary authority alongside Chatham and Rochester. Found on the banks of the River Medway, Gillingham has evolved from its roots as a naval town into a lively and multi-faceted residential hub. Its maritime history remains a defining feature, most notably seen with historic sites like the Royal Engineers Museum and the extensive green space of The Great Lines Heritage Park, which offers sweeping views and echoes its military past.
Gravesend, situated on the south bank of the River Thames in northwest Kent, offers a distinctive blend of rich maritime heritage and contemporary convenience. It is known for its attractive riverside location, historic landmarks, and excellent connections to London and the southeast. The area features a mix of traditional Victorian and Edwardian properties alongside modern housing developments, appealing to a diverse demographic.
Greenhithe is a riverside town nestled along the southern bank of the River Thames in north Kent, renowned for its unique blend of historic character and contemporary convenience. Situated just over 20 miles east of Central London, Greenhithe has transformed over recent decades into a sought-after commuter spot, due in part to its proximity to Ebbsfleet International and Bluewater Shopping Centre. The town is defined by its mix of older period properties, modern developments, and scenic riverfront walks, providing a diverse selection of living environments for residents.
Herne Bay is a picturesque coastal town located on the north coast of Kent, renowned for its traditional seaside charm, Victorian architecture, and scenic beach promenade. Situated just a few miles northeast of Canterbury and within easy reach of Whitstable and the Isle of Sheppey, Herne Bay enjoys a prominent spot by the Thames Estuary, favoured by locals and visitors for its expansive seafront and iconic pier.
Hythe is a picturesque coastal town located in the county of Kent, positioned along the English Channel. Renowned for its historic charm and attractive seafront, Hythe forms part of the celebrated 'Cinque Ports'—a confederation of historic coastal towns essential for maritime trade and defence in medieval England. Its High Street is lined with independent shops and Georgian buildings, while the Royal Military Canal meanders through the heart of the town, offering waterside walks and scenic vistas.
Longfield, situated in the borough of Dartford, Kent, is a sought-after village known for its rural charm combined with excellent commuter links. Found just outside the Greater London boundary but within easy reach of the capital, Longfield thrives as a small community with a scenic countryside backdrop. The area balances a peaceful, village feel with modern amenities, making it an attractive choice for families, professionals, and retirees seeking a quieter lifestyle without being isolated.
Maidstone is the historic county town of Kent, located on the banks of the River Medway in southeast England. Renowned for its blend of rich history and contemporary amenities, Maidstone presents a balanced lifestyle offering both urban energy and easy access to the Kentish countryside. The town centre showcases a traditional market heritage alongside modern shopping centres, riverside walks, and an array of independent businesses.
Margate, perched on the northeast coast of Kent, is a seaside town with a rich heritage and a distinctly creative atmosphere. Once famed as a classic destination for Victorian-era holidaymakers, Margate has undergone a remarkable transformation over recent decades. The area is renowned for its sandy beaches, including the iconic Margate Main Sands, its historic amusements, and the thriving arts scene that radiates from Turner Contemporary and the retro-chic Old Town.
New Romney sits in the heart of Kent’s Romney Marsh, offering a distinct blend of traditional coastal town charm and rural tranquility. Located close to the English Channel and near the border with East Sussex, New Romney attracts those seeking both a relaxed lifestyle and strong community feel. Historically important as one of the Cinque Ports, New Romney was once a thriving medieval port before the sea receded, leaving today’s town slightly inland yet rich in maritime heritage.
Queenborough is a historic town situated on the Isle of Sheppey, within Kent’s Swale district. Overlooking the Swale and the Medway Estuary, this small town is known for its rich maritime heritage, dating back to medieval times when it was an important royal port. Today, Queenborough retains a distinct nautical character, with its marina, historic streets, and evidence of its time as a significant defensive and trading hub.
Ramsgate is a historic seaside town located on the eastern coast of Kent, known for its picturesque Royal Harbour, sandy beaches, and vibrant maritime heritage. Overlooking the English Channel, Ramsgate enjoys impressive sea views and a distinctive blend of Georgian and Victorian architecture. The area attracts a mix of families, retirees, young professionals, and those seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle, as well as commuters drawn by improved transport links to London.
Rochester is a historic city located on the River Medway in Kent, famous for its Norman castle, ancient cathedral, and literary connections to Charles Dickens. With its distinctive mix of heritage architecture, cobbled streets, and riverside views, Rochester’s charm attracts a blend of families, professionals, students, and retirees. The town centre exudes a sense of character, where independent shops, traditional pubs, and vintage boutiques line the High Street, while its calendar of festivals gives Rochester a cultural vibrancy.
Romney Marsh, positioned in the southeastern county of Kent, is distinctive for its flat, open landscapes and deep historical roots. Spanning roughly 100 square miles, this low-lying region borders the English Channel to the south and is crisscrossed by an atmospheric network of drainage dykes, historic villages, and sheep-grazed fields. Renowned as 'the fifth continent' by denizens and visitors alike, Romney Marsh is celebrated for its rural charm, wildlife habitats, and timeless sense of seclusion.
Sandwich is a historic market town situated in the east of Kent, close to the scenic Kent coast and within easy reach of Canterbury. Renowned for its medieval architecture and narrow winding streets, Sandwich is one of the famed Cinque Ports, with a rich maritime history reflected in its ancient buildings, old town walls and historic quay. Many of Sandwich’s houses and public buildings date from the 15th and 16th centuries, giving the town a distinct character beloved by both residents and visitors.
Sevenoaks is a historic town in Kent, situated about 25 miles southeast of central London. Renowned for its stunning natural scenery, the area is particularly famous for Knole Park, a 1,000-acre deer park with the stately Knole House at its heart. The town’s name is believed to originate from the seven oak trees that once stood on The Vine, a prominent green space still cherished by locals today.
Sheerness is a coastal town situated at the northwestern tip of the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, overlooking the Thames Estuary. Famous for its maritime heritage, bustling port, and sandy beaches, Sheerness blends traditional seaside charm with industrial character. The area developed around its deep-water docks and Royal Navy dockyard roots, contributing to its rich historical identity and distinctive landscape of Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
Sittingbourne is a historic market town located in the Swale district of Kent, positioned conveniently between London and the Kent coast. Renowned for its roots in the brickmaking and paper industries, Sittingbourne today is an evolving town combining traditional character with modern development. The town’s location along the A2 and with direct rail access to London Victoria and St Pancras makes it a popular location with commuters, while its setting near the North Kent Marshes appeals to nature-lovers.
Snodland is a small but well-connected town nestled on the banks of the River Medway in Kent. This historic town lies between Maidstone and Rochester, enjoying a strategic location for those seeking semi-rural charm without sacrificing accessibility. Snodland is widely recognised for its strong sense of community, attractive natural surroundings, and deep-rooted industrial past, particularly linked to the paper-making and cement industries that shaped much of its growth in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Swanley is a town situated in the Sevenoaks district of Kent, on the fringes of Greater London. Known as a classic commuter town, Swanley blends suburban living with accessibility to London, attracting families, professionals, and retirees. The area has roots as a railway village and still shows evidence of its Victorian heritage, particularly in the town centre and surrounding green spaces. Over recent decades, Swanley has grown to become a self-contained community, offering a mix of local amenities, a leisure centre, and extensive parks.
Swanscombe is a historic town situated in north-west Kent, nestled between Dartford and Gravesend and set near the southern bank of the River Thames. Known for its archeological significance, Swanscombe gained international recognition due to the discovery of early human fossils and remains at Swanscombe Heritage Park. This legacy adds a unique cultural dimension to life in the area. The town blends residential neighbourhoods, industrial heritage, and access to the natural green spaces of the Thames Gateway.
Tenterden is a picturesque market town located in the heart of the Kent countryside, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Weald". Characterised by timber-framed buildings, independent shops, and wide, tree-lined High Street, Tenterden blends historical charm with a relaxed, rural lifestyle. The area is famed for its proximity to the beautiful Romney Marsh, the iconic Kent & East Sussex Railway, and surrounding vineyards which contribute to its unique appeal.
Tonbridge is a historic market town nestled in the heart of Kent, located to the south east of London along the picturesque River Medway. Renowned for its striking 13th-century Tonbridge Castle, verdant public gardens, and charming High Street, the area seamlessly combines its rich heritage with a present-day appeal that makes it attractive to a wide range of residents. The mix of Tudor buildings alongside Victorian terraces and modern developments reflects the town’s evolution over centuries.
Royal Tunbridge Wells, commonly referred to simply as Tunbridge Wells, is a distinguished spa town in west Kent, known for its elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture, landscaped parks, and tree-lined streets. Situated at the edge of the beautiful High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it offers a blend of urban sophistication and rural tranquillity. The area’s history as a fashionable spa destination dates back to the 17th century when the discovery of the Chalybeate Spring brought London’s elite to ‘take the waters’. Landmarks like The Pantiles, with its boutique shops, open-air cafes, and regular events, are symbolic of the town’s genteel character.
West Malling is a picturesque market town in the heart of Kent, known for its blend of historic charm and modern conveniences. Situated approximately 10 miles west of Maidstone, West Malling has a distinct character shaped by its medieval origins, Georgian architecture, and vibrant high street. Residents enjoy a peaceful pace of life amidst beautiful countryside, with local landmarks such as St Mary's Abbey, West Malling Parish Church, and the inviting Manor Park Country Park offering a strong sense of heritage and community.
Westerham is a picturesque market town located on the western edge of Kent, close to the borders with Surrey and Greater London. Surrounded by rolling green countryside and the sweeping North Downs, Westerham offers a charming blend of historic character and scenic rural living. It is well-known for its traditional High Street lined with period buildings, independent shops, and bustling cafés.
Westgate-on-Sea is a traditional seaside town on the north coast of Kent, situated just a short distance from the historic city of Canterbury and the vibrant resort town of Margate. Characterised by its Victorian architecture, expansive Victorian promenades, and sandy beaches, Westgate-on-Sea blends a peaceful residential atmosphere with charming coastal appeal. The town sits along the Thanet coast and enjoys refreshing sea breezes, picturesque sunsets, and views over the English Channel.
Whitstable is a coastal town on the north coast of Kent, situated on the edge of the Thames Estuary. Best known for its working harbour and association with oysters, Whitstable offers a distinctive blend of maritime heritage, quirky charm, and artistic flair. Its characterful streets are lined with pastel-coloured cottages, independent shops, and galleries, giving the town a unique cultural identity that has long attracted artists, craftspeople, and Londoners looking for a seaside retreat.