Is Kenardington a Nice Place to Live?

Kenardington, a small village in Ashford, Kent, is often the subject of curiosity for potential residents. Nestled in the beautiful Kent countryside, it offers a serene, picturesque environment. However, like any location, it has its fair share of pros and cons. Let’s delve into the specifics to get a genuine feel of what living in Kenardington might be like.

Is Kenardington safe?

Safety is often a primary concern for anyone moving to a new area. Kenardington is generally considered safe by its residents, though it does have some occasional disturbances. Crime statistics indicate that most incidents tend to occur around Goldfield, Church Road, and a few parking areas. Anti-social behaviour and vehicle-related crimes are the more prevalent types, but they happen infrequently enough not to be a major concern for most residents. Overall, the community’s consensus is that Kenardington remains a safe, peaceful place to live.

Is Kenardington a nice place to live for families?

Families considering a move to Kenardington will find both positives and negatives to weigh. Let’s break it down:

Primary & Secondary Schools

When it comes to education, Kenardington doesn’t boast any outstanding schools, which might be a drawback for some. The nearest primary schools, Hamstreet Primary Academy and Woodchurch Church of England Primary School, both have good ratings but are situated outside Kenardington itself. This can make it challenging to secure a spot, particularly as these schools serve their local areas first.

Parks and Playgrounds

The village itself is quite rural, so you won’t find an abundance of playgrounds or parks within its borders. However, families often take advantage of the open countryside and nearby nature reserves for outdoor activities. It’s not uncommon to see children playing in the fields and families enjoying picnics on weekends.

Family Activities

Kenardington offers limited family-centric amenities. Without dedicated family facilities like community centres or sports clubs within the village, families often venture to nearby towns for a more extensive selection of activities. Yet, the slow pace of life and the tight-knit community can be a refreshing change for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city living.

Is Kenardington expensive?

When it comes to housing, Kenardington leans towards the pricier side of the spectrum. The average property price over the last year was around £670,000, which is quite high compared to neighbouring villages. The rental market is almost non-existent, so if you’re looking to rent rather than buy, Kenardington might not be the best option. Areas within Kenardington itself don’t show much variance in price, but nearby alternatives like Ashford offer more affordable options, making them attractive for those on a tighter budget.

What transport links are there?

Transport links in Kenardington are somewhat limited, which can be a drawback for those who rely on public transportation. There are a few bus routes that connect the village to larger towns like Ashford, but they are not particularly frequent. If you’re commuting, having a car is almost a necessity. The road network is decent, with easy access to the A2070, making trips to nearby towns relatively straightforward. For those relying on trains, Ashford International offers fast services to London and other major cities, but you’ll need to drive there first.

What amenities are available in Kenardington?

Kenardington is quite limited when it comes to amenities. There are no pubs, bars, or restaurants within the village itself, which might be a dealbreaker for some. Residents usually head to nearby towns for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Healthcare facilities are also lacking, with residents having to travel to Ashford for most medical needs. While this fosters a peaceful, undisturbed lifestyle, it does require a bit of planning for everyday necessities.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you love the outdoors, Kenardington has plenty to offer. The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for walks and bike rides. The Romney Marshes and the Royal Military Canal are nearby, providing scenic routes for nature enthusiasts. The nearby village of Hamstreet also offers access to the Hamstreet Woods National Nature Reserve, a favourite spot for weekend hikes. The tranquillity and beauty of the surrounding landscape are definite highlights of living in Kenardington.

So, what’s the verdict?

Kenardington is a charming, quiet village that offers a serene lifestyle, away from the hustle and bustle of urban living. Its safety, beautiful countryside, and tight-knit community are significant positives. However, the lack of amenities, limited transport links, and high property prices can be considerable drawbacks. Families might find the absence of outstanding schools and family activities challenging, while those who rely on public transport might struggle with the limited options.

What are the alternatives?

If Kenardington sounds a bit too quiet or lacks some of the amenities you need, nearby alternatives like Ashford or Tenterden might be worth considering. Ashford offers more in terms of shopping, dining, and entertainment, along with better transport links, especially for commuters. Tenterden, on the other hand, provides a blend of countryside charm and more extensive amenities, making it a balanced choice for families and individuals alike.

In conclusion, Kenardington is a lovely place to live if you value peace, quiet, and a strong sense of community, but it comes with its set of challenges that prospective residents should carefully consider.