TOWN
TOWN
Topping poll after poll of ‘best’ places to live, packed to the rafters with outstanding educational
institutions, a lesson in how to do transport links properly, and causing more than a stir
on the country’s culinary scene, diversity and excitement pulse through the very lifeblood
of Kent’s towns and cities, and yet each comes with its very own personality.
T
ake Canterbury, an extraordinary historical destination
first put on the map by Chaucer way back in the
14th century. The city’s striking Norman-era cathedral
dominates the skyline and is supported by a fascinating
medieval streetscape that you can wander for hours
taking in landmarks such as The Beaney House of Art &
Knowledge, The Old Buttermarket thoroughfare and the
River Stour. There’s an emerging and much more modish
side to the city too though, characterised by a burgeoning
coffee and café scene that visitors can dip in and out of as
they dig deeper into Canterbury’s intriguing past.
trendy co-working and studio spaces for Kent’s creative
elite, there is the arts, live music and food hub vibe of the
Hot House, as well as alfresco eating and dining in the
Yard Bar; and all a stone’s throw from the International
Station. For destination shopping, the Ashford Designer
Outlet has completed its vast expansion and now offers
over 130 high-end fashion, food and homeware brands,
as well as Europe’s largest living wall – a must-see
attraction in itself.
For folk that prioritise revelry over retail, Kent has it
covered in the form of county town, Maidstone. A
town of two halves, what used to be all cobbled alleys,
coaching inns and yeomen is now incredibly prosperous
and very good fun. There is a thriving foodie scene and
plentiful late-night hangouts too. As well as historic
nooks and open spaces such as Penenden Heath, once
a tribal Anglo-Saxon HQ. Maidstone is fast establishing
itself as the event capital of Kent. Mote Park, designed
by Capability Brown and offering a host of family-
friendly recreation pursuits, now boasts a staggering
On the flipside, since being declared a growth town
some 15 years ago, Ashford’s status has leapt from that of
a small market town to a thriving hub that means business
– literally. With regeneration at its heart, Ashford now
proudly boasts Elwick Place, home to the Picturehouse
Cinema and local favourite Macknade’s new signature
deli/bistro offering; is home to Chapel Down’s Curious
Brewery and has seen the launch of a new exciting
creative space, Coachworks. Not only offering ultra
13