Situated in the north east corner of Kent, the city of Canterbury is shaped by its history, nature, and by its people. From saints to knights, Romans to royalty and pilgrims to playwrights, there are many stories that shape this area's identity. It is plain to see why Canterbury is high on the list of many affluent house-hunters' list of desirable places to live.
Whether you're drawn to its mediaeval charm, proximity to London, or bustling street scene, this city impresses on all levels. Below is an in-depth look at the top areas to reside, local amenities, and the range of housing on offer.
Top 5 Desirable Areas to Live in Canterbury
Canterbury City Centre
Living in the heart of Canterbury means being steps away from iconic landmarks like Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and thriving streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The city boasts excellent transport links, including Canterbury West and Canterbury East railway stations, offering high-speed services to London in under an hour.
The prestige of living in one of the country’s most famous and sought-after cathedral cities comes at a significantly higher premium than the UK average for properties. One can expect a mix of historic townhouses and charming cottages as well as modern apartments for those looking for more contemporary living.
Whitstable
Famous for its oysters and artistic community, Whitstable is an adorably picturesque coastal town just a short drive from Canterbury. Its traditional charms, rich maritime history and strong arts culture complement the modern town. Its streets are lined with independent boutiques, seafood restaurants and galleries, offering a rare life-changing opportunity for those wanting to move here.
Homes in this beautiful spot range from quaint cottages to modern townhouses and Grade-II listed period homes. The town's popularity has led to rising property values, but it remains a sought-after location for those seeking a blend of seaside living and proximity to the city.
Herne Bay
Approximately six miles from Canterbury city centre, Herne Bay is a seaside town known for its Victorian and Edwardian architecture, Blue Flag beaches and historic pier. The town offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with easy access to the more built-up areas nearby, helped by its well-connected train station.
The property market in Herne Bay continues to see steady growth, with rising demand for coastal properties, increasing average house prices, with a notable shift towards family-sized homes that offer spacious living and easy access to the beach. Detached homes are among the most sought after, averaging around £586,500, making it a popular destination for growing families wanting to mix a coastal lifestyle with commutable access to Canterbury or even London.
Chilham
Nestled in the heart of Kent, Chilham is widely regarded as one of the prettiest villages in in the Kent Downs. The historic square and its small lanes are lined with Tudor and Jacobean houses, and its church was mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086 as the burial place of St Augustine. With its quintessential English vibe, excellent pubs and a wonderful sense of community, one could easily see Chilham as a place to call home. Whilst the village offers a tranquil setting, it is within easy reach of Canterbury and all the amenities that come with it. Properties in the area are typically period homes that market well above the UK average.
The village has also served as a filming location for productions such as A Canterbury Tale, Emma, and Miss Marple, giving some further clues to the ageless aesthetic appeal of this unspoilt gem.
Blean
Blean is another of Canterbury’s delightful villages that sits conveniently between Whitstable and Canterbury, offering that perfect blend of rural charm with a buzzing city close by. Enveloped by ancient woodland, Blean is an ideal place for a quiet walk, with five trails to explore, including an 8-mile wander through mature oaks. The village and surrounding area prove popular with families, offering an impressive range of detached properties, bungalows and highly rated schools within easy reach.
The nearby Blean Woods National Nature Reserve is also a great local nature spot for residents wanting to trade in the sea air for a woodland scene.
Amenities & Facilities
Canterbury and its surrounding towns and villages are well-equipped with modern amenities while retaining their historic charm.
Kent is home to more grammar schools than any other county in England, so the education offer in Canterbury is strong, with The King's School, established in 597, being the oldest continuously operating school in the world. Additionally, there are numerous primary and secondary schools, both state and independent, that perform consistently well in Ofsted inspections and exam results. St Peter’s Methodist Primary and St Stephen’s Infant School are particular stand-outs for primary education, whilst Simon Langton Grammar School, Barton Court Grammar School, and The Archbishop’s School provide excellent secondary school options.
Shopping, leisure and culture are well-served in the area with a variety of options, from high-street brands to independent boutiques. The Goods Shed is a notable find for fresh produce and artisan goods. There is a seemingly infinite wealth of theatres, galleries, and museums, many concentrated around the city centre and outdoor enthusiasts will never tire of parks, riverside walks, nearby nature reserves and the stunning Kent coastline.
Transport Links
With its proximity to London and the English Channel, Canterbury's transport infrastructure is excellent for residents wanting to enjoy its rich heritage and glorious surrounding countryside, whilst being within striking distance of the capital or mainland Europe.
High-speed train services operate between Canterbury West and London St Pancras taking less than an hour, and the major A2 and A28 roads link the city to other major towns and cities in Kent. Comprehensive local bus services cover the city centre, suburbs, and surrounding villages and a bike-friendly focus makes Canterbury a pleasure to cycle around with dedicated cycling paths and routes. The Canterbury to Whitstable route is particularly enjoyable.
Canterbury has long been a place where people aspire to settle down, blending the old with the new, offering residents a rich tapestry of history, culture, outdoor space and modern amenities. From the serenity of the countryside or coastal living, to the inescapable benefits of being close to London, Canterbury has a place for you.
