Is Upper Harbledown a Nice Place to Live?

Upper Harbledown, nestled just a short distance from Canterbury in Kent, is a quaint little village that has its fair share of ups and downs. The area boasts a charming countryside feel while still being close enough to the hustle and bustle of Canterbury. With a mix of old cottages and newer developments, it certainly has a unique character. But is it really a nice place to call home? Let’s take a closer look.

Is Upper Harbledown safe?

When it comes to safety, Upper Harbledown is relatively quiet compared to some other areas. However, like any place, it does have its occasional hiccups. Most residents feel quite secure here, but there are certain spots that see a bit more action than others. For instance, the Petrol Station area seems to be a hotspot, with a notable number of vehicle-related incidents. Church Hill and Lovell Road also see their share of petty theft and anti-social behavior. However, it’s worth noting that these incidents are quite isolated and don’t generally paint the whole picture of the village.

Is Upper Harbledown a nice place to live for families?

Upper Harbledown does have some attractive points for families, especially those looking for a quieter, more rural setting. Let’s break it down further:

Primary Schools

In terms of primary education, Upper Harbledown is not too shabby. Blean Primary School, just a short distance away, has been rated ‘Outstanding,’ which is a huge plus. Other nearby options include The Canterbury Primary School and Wincheap Foundation Primary School, both of which are rated ‘Good.’ However, these schools are in neighbouring areas, so competition for places can be fierce.

Secondary Schools

The situation with secondary schools is a bit more complicated. The closest options, such as The Archbishop’s School and The Canterbury Academy, range from ‘Good’ to ‘Requires Improvement.’ This might not be ideal for parents looking for the best education for their kids. If a top-notch secondary school is a deal-breaker, you might need to consider options further afield.

Family Activities

When it comes to family activities, Upper Harbledown might feel a bit limited. There are some lovely parks and playgrounds nearby, and the surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities for walks and outdoor adventures. The number of families in the area is fairly decent, providing a sense of community, but it’s not a bustling hub by any means.

Is Upper Harbledown expensive?

When it comes to property prices, Upper Harbledown sits comfortably in the middle range. The average house price over the past year was around £425,000, which might seem steep but is relatively on par with the Kent region. Renting can be a bit of a mixed bag; a three-bedroom character property might set you back around £1500 a month, but options are quite limited.

If you’re looking for more affordable options, nearby areas like Sturry or Wincheap might offer better deals. These places are generally more affordable but come with their own sets of pros and cons, such as being slightly more urban or less picturesque.

What transport links are there?

Upper Harbledown is quite well-connected, all things considered. There are regular bus routes that can get you into Canterbury in no time, and the A2 provides easy road access for those commuting by car. If you need to travel further afield, Canterbury West station offers high-speed train services to London, making it a feasible option for city commuters.

What amenities are available in Upper Harbledown?

Now, this is where Upper Harbledown might fall short for some. The village itself doesn’t have much in the way of shops, restaurants, or pubs. You’ll find yourself heading into Canterbury for most of your needs, be it a grocery run or a night out. On the plus side, Canterbury is just a short drive away, so you’re never too far from the action.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Upper Harbledown has some delightful offerings. The surrounding countryside is perfect for walks, and there are a few lovely parks like the Recreation Ground. It’s a great spot for those who enjoy a more rural lifestyle and love spending time in nature.

So, what’s the verdict?

Upper Harbledown isn’t for everyone, but it does have its charms. It’s a safe, quiet village with good primary schooling options and lovely outdoor spaces. However, the lack of amenities and secondary school options might be a deal-breaker for some. If you’re looking for a peaceful, countryside vibe and don’t mind the short trip into Canterbury for your needs, it could be just the spot for you.

What are the alternatives?

If Upper Harbledown doesn’t tick all your boxes, there are other nearby areas to consider. Sturry offers more amenities and a slightly more urban feel, while still being close to nature. Wincheap is another option, offering more affordable housing but with the trade-off of being more built-up. Each of these alternatives has its own pros and cons, so it’s worth exploring them to see which fits your lifestyle best.

All in all, Upper Harbledown is a lovely spot for the right kind of resident. Whether that’s you is something only you can decide!