Spanning an impressive 350 miles, the Kent coastline offers something for all. From traditional bucket and spade seaside resorts to Blue Flag sandy beaches and the White Cliffs of Dover, we might be in a county known as the Garden of England but arguably the Kent coast is just as treasured by those who live here. 

Set to open later this year are the final Kent sections of the King Charles III England Coastal Path which will give walkers access to the county’s entire coastline. Stretching from the sand dunes of Camber, winding through the harbour town of Whitstable – famed for its Oysters – and finally up to the Isle of Grain, the path provides a passage through  maritime history, with some incredible scenery to enjoy along the way.

But look beyond the shores and this is a region with so much on offer. From a thriving food scene and excellent schooling to an array of sporting pursuits, a home on the Kent coast unlocks a lifestyle rich in variety.

House prices on the Kent coast

Compared to other coastal spots, the Kent coast offers relative good value. In the last few years, this corner of the South East has risen in popularity as people have made the move out of the capital for more space and a complete change in lifestyle. Buyers can expect to pay upwards of £1.5m for trophy property on the seafront, rising closer to £3m for a best-in-class home. A sea-facing apartment in Margate costs around £400,000 while a listed period house in Deal is likely to be closer to £1.5m.

Take me to the beach

Whether a rambler looking for a picturesque coastal path or a family seeking a day at the seaside, the Kent coast ticks all the boxes. The award-winning sandy beaches at Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate can provide hours of sandcastle-making fun or for the more adventurous, a cycle ride from Folkestone to Dover on the Chalk and Channel Way is one of the best routes to see the Kent coast in all its glory.

Education, education, education

With a number of highly renowned junior and senior schools sitting within the region, schooling is a major driver for many in their decision to move here. Along with several grammars from Broadstairs down to Folkestone and into Canterbury, there are also a number of leading independents in the area such as Ashford School (co-ed, day and boarding, three months – 18 years) and several in Canterbury including The King’s School, Canterbury (co-ed, day and boarding, 13–18 years) which is said to be the oldest school in the world. Some also provide daily transport services to outlying coastal towns and villages for pupils.

Connectivity

With hybrid working here to stay, the Kent coast has become a viable option for those based in London for work who may need to travel in a couple of days a week. As well as a variety of stopping services from regional village and town stations, high speed services from Thanet Parkway (70 minutes) or through Ashford (38 minutes) to St Pancras International are popular routes for local commuters. 

A culinary coast

The Kent food scene has been riding high in recent years and the county’s coastal hotspots offer some of the best dining in the region. Locals holding Michelin stars include neighbourhood restaurant Hide and Fox in Saltwood near Hythe and The Sportsman in Seasalter with its daily changing menu. But it isn’t just about fine dining; head to Whitstable for Wheelers Oyster Bar and The Lobster Shack, The Goods Yard in Folkestone for street food or, for a sweet fix, Morelli’s Gelato in Broadstairs which recently celebrated 90 years in the town. Shortly to open in Margate from an ex-Masterchef finalist is wine bar, restaurant and bottle shop, Pomus, which is attracting local interest. Whether you’re searching for a good coffee, a lazy lunch or somewhere for a special occasion, here is somewhere that’ll cater to every palate.

The lifestyle pull

Beyond the sailing, rowing and windsurfing clubs, local recreational pursuits are endless. In Sandwich, Royal St. George’s Golf Club with its Open Championship course attracts golfers from far and wide seeking to play on one of the sport’s most prestigious courses. Meanwhile Turner Contemporary art gallery in Margate is perfect for a weekend visit as are the independent retailers and workshops at Folkestone’s Creative Quarter. Last year’s book festival in the town was a big hit and for cinema and theatregoers, The Palace Cinema in Broadstairs and The Playhouse in Whitstable are long-standing local institutions. For families, Herne Bay Pier – with its old-fashioned fairground attractions – is particularly popular, while a stroll along Deal Pier takes you to Deal Pier Kitchen, a gorgeous spot for brunch or steak and lobster at the weekend.

Further information

Contact Julien Hunt

In Focus and On Foot – expert views on local neighbourhoods