With its status as the “Garden of England”, Kent offers plenty of reasons for those looking for a place to live, settle down and enjoy later life. It is a perfect place with a wide range of things to do and places to visit, from relaxing on one of Kent’s beaches to discovering the history of Canterbury Castle and exploring its cobblestone paths. In our guide, read on to discover why Kent is such a popular choice for retirement and get a clearer idea of where to live when you retire.

What Are the Best Places to Retire in Kent?

With Kent being an attractive choice for many retirees and downsizers, the right area for you will depend on your own preferences and lifestyle. To help you narrow it down, we’ve listed some of the best places to start your search, each with its own charm.

Faversham

As one of Kent’s oldest market towns, dating back to pre-Roman times, Faversham gives residents history to explore every day. You can walk along Abbey Street, one of England’s finest medieval streets, visit Faversham Market, which has served the town for more than 900 years, or stop by Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewery. Surrounded by lush countryside and coastal routes, Faversham also makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors, from visiting Mount Ephraim Gardens to playing golf or swimming at Faversham Pools. It is particularly suitable for retirees and downsizers as the first town in Kent to join the UK Network of Age-Friendly Communities, with a focus on accessible spaces, local activities and support for older residents.

Blean

Situated between Canterbury and Whitstable, Blean is a great choice for retirees and downsizers who value being close to nature. Surrounded by ancient woodland, including the Blean Woods National Nature Reserve, it offers a peaceful setting with plenty of walking trails, dog-friendly routes, and opportunities for birdwatching. Canterbury is just a short drive away, making it easy to stay connected to the city while enjoying a quieter pace of life. Regular bus services also make day to day travel simple. For drivers, the A2 is close by, providing direct routes to London and Dover, so you can enjoy village living without feeling too far away.

Sutton Valence

Set your sights on far reaching countryside views in Sutton Valence, set atop the Greensand Ridge in Kent overlooking the Vale of Kent and the Weald. Explore its period cottages and historic ragstone buildings and discover walking routes that lead to nearby castle ruins and surrounding nature.

In the village, you can take part in its lively community and join the annual street water slide, which closes the road and brings residents together. When you need more choice, Maidstone is just a short 15-minute drive away, offering a wider range of amenities, restaurants and shops.

Canterbury

Steeped in history and home to one of the world’s most famous cathedrals, Canterbury is an ideal choice for those who enjoy city amenities and places with rich heritage. Its cobbled streets are lined with independent shops, cafés and restaurants, while local events such as the Canterbury Festival, Christmas Markets and performances at the Marlowe Theatre bring life to the city centre and give residents plenty to enjoy throughout the year.

Three Reasons Why So Many People Choose to Retire in Kent

Often regarded as one of the best places to retire in England, Kent combines stunning countryside, coastal scenery and well-connected towns. Here are some of the main reasons people choose retirement living in Kent:

1. Mix of seaside and countryside

With more than 50 beaches and a 350-mile coastline of white cliffs, sandy shores, shingle bays and lively seaside towns, there are plenty of places to enjoy time by the sea. From Whitstable and Margate to Broadstairs, Kent’s coastal spots are ideal for relaxed days out with family. Beyond the coast, Kent lives up to its name as the Garden of England, with untouched countryside, walking trails, cycle paths and open green spaces to explore.

2. Quick commute to London

For those looking to move away from London but still wanting to be close enough to visit, Kent, Surrey and Sussex are great choices. High-speed rail links make day trips to the capital from Kent simple, with journeys from Canterbury taking under an hour and some towns just 20 to 30 minutes from London by train.

3. Historic Kent Attractions

Retirement gives you more time to explore, and Kent has plenty to uncover. You can walk through the medieval grounds of Dover Castle, which overlooks the English Channel, or spend a day discovering Canterbury Cathedral and its surrounding streets. With around 2,000 years of history, the county is filled with coastal fortresses, abbey ruins, gardens and wartime tunnels.

Enjoy Later Life in a New Build Home in Kent

Whether you’re looking to retire in the peaceful surroundings of Faversham or enjoy the historic charm of Sutton Valence, Fernham Homes offers new build homes across Kent in carefully chosen locations. Our homes are designed to offer the comfort, safety and quality finish you want for your next chapter. Explore our new homes in Kent and discover what is the best place to retire in Kent for your lifestyle.