Is Kent a Good Place to Live: Heritage and Modern Life

For centuries, Kent has held a unique position in England's social and geographical landscape. Known affectionately as the 'Garden of England', Kent has attracted settlers and residents throughout its long history, from Roman colonists to modern London commuters. This historical examination explores why Kent has consistently been considered a desirable place to live, and how its rich heritage, varied landscapes, transport links, and cultural offerings have shaped its appeal across different historical periods.

Whether you're considering a move to Kent or simply interested in understanding how this historic county has developed as a residential area over time, this article examines the historical factors that have made Kent an attractive place to call home through the centuries.

Kent's Historical Appeal as a Place to Live

Kent's desirability as a residential location stretches back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that Kent has been continuously inhabited since the Palaeolithic era, with significant settlements developing during the Bronze and Iron Ages. The fertility of Kent's soil, its proximity to Continental Europe, and its varied terrain of coast, downland, and woodland made it an ideal location for early communities.

When the Romans arrived in 43 AD, they quickly established major settlements at Canterbury (Durovernum Cantiacorum), Rochester (Durobrivae), and Dover (Dubris). These developed into thriving towns with comfortable villas spreading throughout the countryside, demonstrating that even 2,000 years ago, Kent was considered a prime residential location for wealthy Romans seeking a balance of urban amenities and rural charm.

After the Roman withdrawal, Kent became the first kingdom established by Anglo-Saxon settlers. It remained one of the wealthiest kingdoms in England throughout the early medieval period, with its strategic position making it both prosperous and important. The Domesday Book of 1086 records Kent as having some of the most valuable manors and estates in England, reflecting its continued desirability.

Throughout the medieval period, Kent's prosperity continued to grow through trade, agriculture and its proximity to London. Canterbury's position as the ecclesiastical centre of England brought wealth and prestige to the county, while Dover and the Cinque Ports connected Kent to continental Europe, supporting a flourishing mercantile class.

By Tudor times, Kent had become a favoured location for country estates of the wealthy. Henry VIII's decision to build or expand several properties in Kent, including Knole House and Hever Castle, further enhanced the county's reputation as a desirable residential area. During Elizabeth I's reign, many aristocrats and successful merchants chose to establish grand houses in Kent, drawn by the pleasant climate, fertile land, and convenient distance from London.

Kent's Natural Environment: The Garden of England

Kent's nickname as the 'Garden of England' dates to the 16th century when Henry VIII was reportedly so impressed by a bowl of Kentish cherries that he ordered the establishment of the first commercial cherry orchard in the country at Teynham. This reputation for horticultural excellence has endured through the centuries and remains a significant factor in Kent's residential appeal.

The diverse landscape of Kent has always been one of its greatest assets. From the chalk downs and woodland of the North Downs to the marshlands of Romney and the beaches of Thanet, Kent offers varied environments that have attracted different settlers throughout history. The fertile soil has supported prosperous farming communities since ancient times, with hop gardens, orchards, and vineyards becoming defining features of the Kentish countryside.

Climate has also played a significant role in Kent's popularity. The county enjoys one of the mildest and driest climates in Britain, with areas like Thanet and the south-east coast receiving more sunshine hours than most other parts of the UK. This favourable climate has been noted since Roman times and continues to attract residents today.

Historical records show that by the 17th and 18th centuries, Kent had developed a reputation for healthy living. The clean air of the North Downs and the seaside resorts that began to develop along the coast were promoted for their health benefits. By Victorian times, towns like Margate, Ramsgate, and Folkestone had become fashionable destinations for those seeking to improve their health through sea air and bathing.

The preservation of this natural environment has been a consistent concern throughout Kent's history. Medieval forest laws protected woodland for royal hunting, while more recently, the designation of the Kent Downs as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1968 has helped to preserve the character of the landscape. This continuity of natural beauty has been a major factor in Kent's enduring appeal as a place to live.

Transport Links: Gateway to London and Europe

Kent's geographical position as the southeastern corner of England has made it a crucial transport hub throughout history. From Roman roads to high-speed rail, the development of transport infrastructure has consistently enhanced Kent's desirability as a residential county.

The Romans established the first major transport network in Kent, building Watling Street to connect London to the channel ports at Dover and Richborough. This route, now roughly followed by the A2, has remained a key transport artery for over two millennia. The county's road network was further developed during the medieval period, with Canterbury serving as a hub for pilgrimage routes.

The turnpike trusts of the 18th century significantly improved Kent's road network, making travel between London and the county much faster and more comfortable. This development made it possible for the wealthy to maintain homes in Kent while conducting business in London, establishing the beginnings of a commuter culture that continues to this day.

Perhaps the most transformative development in Kent's residential history was the arrival of the railways in the 19th century. When the London to Dover railway opened in 1844, it revolutionised the relationship between Kent and the capital. Towns along the railway lines, such as Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, and Ashford, experienced significant growth as they became viable commuter settlements.

The development of the railway network created distinct patterns of settlement that are still evident today. The wealthy gravitated to the picturesque villages and towns of west Kent, which offered quick access to London combined with beautiful countryside. This area, including Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells, and surrounding villages, became known as the 'commuter belt' and remains among the most expensive and desirable residential areas in the county.

The opening of the Channel Tunnel in 1994 and the High Speed 1 rail link in 2007 have been the most recent major developments in Kent's transport infrastructure. These have significantly enhanced the county's position as both a gateway to Europe and a commuter destination. Towns like Ashford, Ebbsfleet, and Canterbury have been revitalised by high-speed services that have slashed journey times to London, making them increasingly attractive to those seeking a balance between rural living and urban employment.

Cultural Heritage and Community Life

Kent's rich cultural heritage has always been a significant factor in its appeal as a place to live. The county's long history has bequeathed a wealth of historic buildings, traditions, and cultural institutions that create a strong sense of place and community.

From the early medieval period, Kent developed distinctive local customs and practices that gave its communities a unique character. The tradition of hop-picking holidays, which brought thousands of Londoners to Kent each autumn until the mid-20th century, created lasting connections between urban and rural communities. Local festivals such as the Rochester Sweeps Festival (commemorating chimney sweeps' holiday) and Whitstable Oyster Festival demonstrate how historical traditions continue to bind communities together.

Kent's educational heritage has been another enduring attraction for residents. The King's School in Canterbury, founded in 597 AD, is often claimed to be the oldest continuously operating school in the world. Throughout history, Kent has been associated with learning and education, from medieval monastic schools to grammar schools established in the Tudor period. The foundation of the University of Kent in 1965 and Canterbury Christ Church University in 1962 have continued this tradition into the modern era.

The county's rich architectural heritage provides a tangible connection to its past. Kent contains over 17,000 listed buildings and 500 conservation areas, creating environments where history feels immediate and present. Living in historic towns like Sandwich, Faversham, or Royal Tunbridge Wells allows residents to participate in a continuity of community life that stretches back centuries.

This sense of historical continuity has been a particular draw for many who choose to make Kent their home. The visibility of the past, whether in the form of oast houses that speak to the hop-growing heritage or the medieval street layouts of towns like Canterbury and Sandwich, creates a distinctive sense of place that many residents value highly.

The county's literary and artistic associations have also enhanced its cultural appeal. Charles Dickens' strong connections to Kent, particularly Rochester and Broadstairs, have left a lasting cultural legacy. Artists have been drawn to Kent's landscapes and light for centuries, with J.M.W. Turner's passionate relationship with Margate being perhaps the most famous example.

Economic Opportunities Through the Ages

The economic history of Kent has been characterised by remarkable diversity, providing varied employment opportunities that have attracted residents throughout different historical periods. From agricultural prosperity to industrial development and service economy, Kent's economic resilience has been a key factor in its residential appeal.

Agriculture has traditionally been Kent's economic backbone. The fertility of the soil and favourable climate made it one of England's most productive agricultural regions. By the 17th and 18th centuries, Kent had developed specialised forms of agriculture, particularly hop growing, fruit cultivation, and market gardening. These industries required large seasonal workforces but also supported prosperous farming communities and market towns.

The industrial revolution brought significant change to parts of Kent. The Medway towns developed around shipbuilding and naval support industries, while the paper mills along the Darent and Medway valleys provided substantial employment. Coal mining became important in east Kent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, creating new communities and economic opportunities.

Tourism emerged as an important industry from the 18th century onwards. The development of seaside resorts like Margate, Ramsgate, and Folkestone created new employment opportunities and brought prosperity to coastal towns. By the Victorian era, towns like Tunbridge Wells had established themselves as fashionable spa resorts, attracting wealthy residents and visitors.

The 20th century saw significant economic restructuring, with traditional industries declining and new ones emerging. The growth of the service sector, retail, and business parks has been particularly important in towns like Maidstone and Ashford. The channel ports and tunnel have supported substantial employment in the transport and logistics sectors.

In the post-war period, Kent's economy has increasingly been shaped by its relationship with London. The growth of the commuter culture has meant that many Kent residents work in the capital while living in the county. This has created a complex economic geography, with areas of west and north Kent functioning as part of London's economic orbit while other areas maintain more distinct local economies.

Today, Kent's economy continues to evolve, with growing sectors including creative industries, higher education, and technology. The county's strategic location, environmental assets, and cultural heritage provide economic opportunities that continue to attract new residents.

Kent's Residential Evolution: From Medieval Villages to Garden Cities

The built environment of Kent reflects centuries of residential development, from medieval timber-framed houses to modern garden cities. This architectural heritage is not only visually appealing but also tells the story of how living patterns in the county have evolved over time.

Kent's medieval villages and towns typically developed organically around central features such as churches, marketplaces, or castles. The vernacular architecture of this period used local materials, particularly timber framing with wattle and daub infill, later replaced by brick. Surviving examples in towns like Chiddingstone, Chilham, and West Malling show how these settlements created intimate, human-scaled environments that still feel welcoming today.

By the Tudor and Stuart periods, the prosperity of the county was reflected in the development of substantial yeoman farmhouses and merchants' town houses. The distinctive Kentish architectural style, with jettied upper floors, decorative timber framing, and imposing brick chimney stacks, created handsome residences that remain desirable homes today.

The Georgian and Victorian periods saw significant urban development, particularly in towns benefiting from transport improvements or tourism. Elegant terraces and crescents were built in Tunbridge Wells, while substantial villas appeared in growing towns like Sevenoaks and Canterbury. At the same time, industrialisation created new housing types, from the modest terraces of the Medway towns to the miners' cottages of east Kent coalfields.

The 20th century brought planned development on an unprecedented scale. Garden suburbs influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement appeared around major towns, while the New Town movement led to significant expansions at Ashford and, most notably, the development of Kings Hill in west Kent. This planned community on the site of a former airfield has become one of Kent's most successful recent residential developments.

Conservation has been an increasingly important concern in Kent's residential development. The county has been a pioneer in conservation efforts, with Canterbury establishing one of England's first conservation areas in 1968. Today, strict planning controls in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, conservation areas, and around listed buildings help to preserve the historic character that makes Kent's residential environments so special.

Contemporary residential development in Kent faces the challenge of balancing growth pressures with heritage preservation. Major developments are planned around transport hubs like Ebbsfleet, where a garden city is emerging, while smaller-scale sensitive developments continue to adapt historic buildings for modern living. This balance between preservation and innovation continues a tradition that has shaped Kent's residential appeal for centuries.

Kent's Social History: Communities and Identities

Kent's social history reveals a complex tapestry of communities and identities that have evolved over centuries. Understanding this social context helps explain why different areas of the county have developed distinct characters and reputations as places to live.

Historically, Kent's society was characterised by a relatively unusual degree of freedom and social mobility. The custom of gavelkind inheritance prevented the concentration of land in a few hands, creating a substantial class of small landowners. This contributed to Kent's reputation for independence and prosperity among ordinary people, famously summarised in the old saying "a Knight of Cales [Calais], a Gentleman of Wales, and a Laird of the North Countree, a Yeoman of Kent with his yearly rent will buy them all three."

Kent's proximity to London and continental Europe has made it a county of migration and cultural exchange throughout history. Flemish weavers settled in the Weald in the 14th century, French Huguenots brought papermaking and silk-weaving skills in the 17th century, and Italian communities established ice cream businesses in seaside towns during the 19th century. This history of migration has created diverse communities and enriched the county's cultural life.

The development of distinct social identities within Kent has shaped residential patterns that persist today. The historic division between the agricultural communities of the Weald and the maritime communities of the coast created different social structures and traditions. More recently, the division between "west Kent" (more affluent, London-oriented) and "east Kent" (traditionally more industrial and independent) has become a recognised feature of the county's social geography.

Educational opportunity has been an important factor in Kent's social history. The county retained the grammar school system after many other areas abolished it, creating a distinctive educational landscape that continues to influence residential choices. Towns with highly regarded grammar schools, such as Tonbridge, Maidstone, and Canterbury, have consistently attracted families seeking educational opportunities.

The arts have played a significant role in Kent's social development. The county has nurtured important cultural figures from Geoffrey Chaucer to Tracey Emin, while distinctive local traditions like the Hoodening (a folk custom involving a hobby horse) and Tenterden Folk Festival help maintain a sense of regional identity. This cultural vitality contributes significantly to quality of life for residents.

Kent in the 21st Century: Contemporary Appeal

Kent's appeal as a place to live in the 21st century builds on its historical advantages while responding to contemporary challenges and opportunities. The county continues to evolve, balancing preservation of its heritage with the needs of current and future residents.

Transport improvements have been perhaps the most significant recent enhancement to Kent's residential appeal. The High Speed 1 rail link, which opened fully in 2007, has dramatically reduced journey times to London. Areas previously considered too remote for commuting, such as Canterbury and the east Kent coast, have been brought within realistic daily travel distance of the capital. This has stimulated regeneration and rising property values in these areas.

Cultural regeneration has transformed parts of Kent that experienced economic decline in the late 20th century. Margate's revival, centred around the Turner Contemporary gallery and creative industries, demonstrates how cultural investment can revitalise coastal towns. Similarly, the Historic Dockyard at Chatham has evolved from a redundant industrial site to a thriving heritage attraction and residential area.

Educational opportunities continue to enhance Kent's appeal for families. The expansion of the county's universities, with campuses in Canterbury, Medway, and Tonbridge, has created new higher education options. Meanwhile, the county's distinctive mix of grammar schools, high-performing comprehensive schools, and independent schools provides varied educational pathways.

Environmental quality remains one of Kent's strongest assets. Despite development pressures, the county retains substantial areas of outstanding natural beauty, from the North Downs to Romney Marsh. The protection afforded to these landscapes ensures that Kent continues to offer the rural charm that has attracted residents for centuries.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated changing patterns of work and residence that may enhance Kent's appeal further. With more people able to work remotely for at least part of the week, the balance between commuting distance and rural quality of life has shifted. Areas of Kent previously considered too far from London for daily commuting are becoming viable options for those who only need to visit their workplace occasionally.

Looking to the future, Kent faces both challenges and opportunities. Housing affordability remains a significant issue, particularly in the more prosperous west of the county. Environmental challenges, including water stress and coastal erosion, will require careful management. However, the county's strategic position, environmental assets, and rich heritage provide a strong foundation for continued development as a desirable place to live.

Conclusion: Kent's Enduring Residential Appeal

Throughout its long history, Kent has consistently demonstrated qualities that make it an attractive place to live. From Roman villas to modern garden cities, residents have been drawn by the county's fertile land, strategic location, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage.

The historical factors that have made Kent desirable – its proximity to London and continental Europe, its varied landscapes, its prosperous economy, and its distinct cultural identity – continue to shape its residential appeal today. While different areas of the county offer different lifestyles and amenities, the fundamental qualities that have attracted settlers for millennia remain largely unchanged.

Perhaps most importantly, Kent offers a rare combination of connectivity and character. The county provides access to global cities and international transport links while maintaining distinctive local communities with deep historical roots. This balance between connection and identity has been a consistent theme throughout Kent's residential history and remains central to its appeal in the 21st century.

For those considering whether Kent is a good place to live, the county's history offers a resounding affirmation. Few places in Britain can match Kent's combination of strategic location, natural beauty, and cultural depth. While each era has brought new challenges and opportunities, Kent has consistently demonstrated an ability to adapt and evolve while preserving the essential qualities that make it the Garden of England.

Further Reading

• Bagshaw, P. (2001) Kent: The History of a County. Phillimore & Co.
• Everitt, A. (1986) Continuity and Colonization: The Evolution of Kentish Settlement. Leicester University Press.
• Hasted, E. (1797-1801) The History and Topographical Survey of the County of Kent.
• Roake, M. (2000) Religious Identities in Kent, 1660-1914. Boydell Press.
• Zell, M. (2000) Early Modern Kent, 1540-1640. Boydell Press.

For more information about Kent's history and heritage, explore our other articles or visit our Research Resources page for guidance on delving deeper into specific aspects of Kent's past.