City living with character.

Canterbury is one of Kent’s best-known cities, but despite its historic streets, bustling centre and wealth of things to do, it still manages to feel remarkably easy to live in.

At the heart of the city you’ll find Canterbury Cathedral, alongside cobbled streets, independent shops, cafés, restaurants and larger high-street names. Beyond the centre, there are leafy residential neighbourhoods, riverside walks and open green spaces, while the surrounding Kent countryside and coast are both within easy reach.

It’s this mix that makes Canterbury particularly appealing. You can enjoy everything that comes with living in a vibrant city, without feeling far removed from the countryside, coast or quieter side of Kent.

So, what’s it actually like to live here?

City Life

Canterbury has plenty going on without feeling overwhelmingly busy. The historic centre is compact and walkable, with its medieval streets winding between the Cathedral, shops, restaurants, cafés and cultural attractions.

Different parts of the city have their own character too, from the independent shops around the King’s Mile and Cathedral Quarter to the restaurants and pubs of the West End and the larger brands found around Whitefriars.

The Great Outdoors

Despite being a city, Canterbury has plenty of green space woven throughout it.

The River Stour runs through the centre, while Westgate Gardens provides one of the city’s best-known places for riverside walks and green space. Beyond the city centre, the surrounding countryside makes it easy to escape for longer walks, cycling and weekends outdoors.

And when you fancy the coast instead, Whitstable and Herne Bay are both only a short drive away.