Kent, nicknamed the "Garden of England," is the county that has it all: a mix of charming towns, stunning countryside, and a rich tapestry woven from Roman settlements and the Saxons. This, combined with its superb schools and proximity to London, explains why Kent is a popular choice for those looking to relocate.
In this guide, we explore the best towns in Kent that make a perfect choice for families.
Sevenoaks
Sevenoaks is an affluent town outside Greater London, known for its excellent schools, rolling countryside, and accessibility to the capital. Nestled amidst the rippling hills of the High Weald and the rolling North Downs, the town offers families more secluded living whilst remaining a reasonable distance for those commuting to the capital.
At its heart lies Knole Park, one of Britain's most impressive stately homes, dating back to the 1450s. Visitors can wander through galleries filled with silver and portraits before venturing into the orangery and the sprawling 1,000-acre park, home to approximately 350 deer. The town hosts various events, like the annual Sevenoaks Summer Festival, which fills it with theatre performances, live music, and art exhibitions, while the nearby Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve hosts family-friendly nature walks and workshops.
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Royal Tunbridge Wells captures the essence of town-and-country living all while remaining a commutable distance from London. Families are particularly drawn to its reputation as one of Kent's safest towns and high-performing schools in the area, particularly Tunbridge Wells Girls' Grammar School.
The town is blessed with acres of public green space – from Calverley Grounds and Dunorlan Park to the Grove and Hilbert and Grosvenor; there are plenty of places where children can enjoy the great outdoors. Activities and family events are readily available at nearby venues like Groombridge Place and Bewl Wate. Families can also easily bike to nearby villages like Groombridge, pick up the old railway line, or follow the cycle trail from Tonbridge Castle to Penshurst Place. The town is also an easy drive to the Channel Tunnel and the ferries from Dover and Folkestone, making it a great base for family holidays.
Canterbury
Famed for its Cathedral and a title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Canterbury is a larger town that appeals to those looking for a slightly bigger area to reside in.
Once a place of pilgrimage in mediaeval Europe, Canterbury is well-regarded for its wealth of history that stretches back to the Romans. Families can fully immerse themselves in local history by visiting the Cathedral, which offers enriching educational tours, or the Canterbury Roman Museum, which invites visitors to relive the past and stroll through the ancient marketplace and Roman rooms. Beyond the Cathedral, The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge provides an art gallery and history exhibitions and hosts a packed programme of family events throughout the year.
Canterbury is home to various green spaces, including Westgate Gardens and Dane John Gardens, which feature playgrounds and picnic areas – ideal for family outings. The city is also renowned for its safety, with a strong sense of community that shines through in local events, such as the Canterbury Festival and the charming Christmas markets.
Sandwich
Known as one of the best-preserved mediaeval towns in England, Sandwich showcases quaint streets and ancient buildings said to contain more half-timbered houses than any other area in England. The town is not only the birthplace of the ‘ sandwich’ but also boasts a rich history as a Cinque Port, with visitors looking to uncover the town's wealth of history, nature reserves, and cosy pubs.
Sandwich's winding mediaeval streets are lined with various independent retailers, tearooms, and cafes. Families can delve into history at attractions like the Sandwich Guildhall Museum and Richborough Roman Fort, where interactive exhibits make learning fun for children. The nearby Sandwich Medieval Centre offers live demonstrations, allowing children to have a hands-on history experience.
The town fosters a strong sense of community through its multiple festivals and events, including the Sandwich Folk and Ale Festival in August, Sandwich Food Fayre in May, and Le Weekend in June. For film enthusiasts, there's the Empire Cinema, which reopened in 1993 with art deco architecture reminiscent of the golden age of cinema. Despite its reputation as a bustling town, visitors can soak in the fresh air by walking to Sandwich Bay or taking a short stroll to one of the two local nature reserves. Golf is also widely celebrated, with three globally recognised courses, including St. George's Golf Club.
Faversham
Nestled in the Kent countryside and once the capital of England, the quaint town of Faversham offers a perfect blend of convenience, history, and charm. Its stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for coastal rambles and rural walks that can be appreciated all year round.
The town is best known as the oldest market town in Kent, with its charming cobbled streets and famous market. The market occurs three times a week and is packed with traders selling fresh meats, baked goods, and local produce. Additionally, twice-monthly "Best of Faversham" markets highlight the town's remarkable selection of eateries and bars and locally produced crafts and artwork.
Boasting a charming mediaeval town centre complete with historical buildings like St.Mary of Charity Church and the 16th-century market square, Faversham's history is palpable. Over 300 listed buildings reside in the area, and sites like the family-owned Shepherd Neame Brewery provide opportunities to learn about local brewing traditions. The picturesque Faversham Creek offers walks and boating opportunities for family days out, whilst the town's community spirit is evidenced in local events like the Faversham Hop Festival.
As we look ahead, Kent's future looks bright and promising. With a commitment to preserving its green spaces, an abundance of rich history, and a strong sense of community throughout its villages, Kent positions itself as an attractive region for families seeking safe and welcoming surroundings, all whilst still remaining accessible from major cities like London. With a continued focus on improving local infrastructure, safety, and sustainability, the county makes a perfect choice for families looking to call it home.
