Property in Canterbury

Canterbury - where old meets new

Situated on the banks of the River Stour, historic Canterbury is a small cathedral city with a market town feel, yet has one of Kent's largest economies.

From anywhere in the centre, you can see the surrounding stunning countryside, while you can get to the North Downs or the seaside at Whitstable, Herne Bay or Broadstairs, in minutes.

The spectacular cathedral was founded in 597, and within the walls lie lanes with brooks and medieval houses. However, modern additions like the city's University of Kent mean the place is anything but stuck in the past.

Property in Canterbury includes Victorian houses, bungalows, semi-detached country cottages, town houses, 1930s buildings and contemporary detached homes, so you'll have plenty of choice. If you're after a flat, there are also various purpose-built blocks.

There are some attractive central areas with a villagey feel, like St Dunstan's. There are a number of top suburban streets which are located south of the centre in the Old Dover Road area and near the university in the north-east. Rural properties are much in demand, especially in villages like Chartham and Wye.

As well as the lovely Cathedral, the central area has museums and fine art galleries, along with specialist shops and bigger stores, plus a twice weekly street market.

The northern quarter has a Bohemian feel, with a range of antique shops and restaurants.

Impeccably connected

There are two train stations, with Canterbury East - the more central of the two - serving London Victoria. Trains from Canterbury West go to the capital's Charing Cross and to Ashford International.

Since the opening of the express train service to St Pancras via Ashford International, the commute to central London has been notably reduced to around an hour.

The A2 London to Dover road bypasses the city, which is less than 50 miles from the M25. There is another main road through the city, which is the A28 from Ashford connecting Ramsgate & Margate. Three park and ride sites on the city's fringes help to ease congestion.

The A2 and A260 link Canterbury with Dover and the Eurotunnel car shuttle in Cheriton.

Along with the many history-drenched buildings forming the backdrop to the city, Canterbury is well-served for local amenities like parks and leisure centres and has a thriving arts scene, from its annual festival to the redeveloped Marlowe Theatre.

And if you decide to make this delightful city your base, you'll be able to create your very own Canterbury Tales!