Is Badlesmere a Nice Place to Live?

Badlesmere, a quaint village nestled in Faversham, Kent, often flies under the radar for many people looking to relocate. Given its serene landscapes and charming community, it’s easy to see the initial appeal. However, like anywhere, it has its quirks and drawbacks. Let’s dive straight into the nitty-gritty details to see if Badlesmere is the right place for you.

Is Badlesmere safe?

When it comes to safety, Badlesmere has a pretty mixed reputation. Overall, crime rates here are just slightly above the regional average. A few hotspots, like Ashford Road, Leaveland Corner, and Fisher Street Road, pop up more frequently in local police reports. These areas have seen their share of shoplifting and burglaries.

Anecdotally, locals often talk about the “bad eggs” from outside the village that occasionally cause trouble. Generally, though, residents feel safe. It’s the sort of place where people know their neighbours and keep an eye out for each other. So, while it’s not without its issues, Badlesmere is still far from a den of iniquity.

Is Badlesmere a nice place to live for families?

Badlesmere can be a hidden gem for families, especially if you’re after a slower pace of life. However, schooling options can be a bit of a pickle.

Primary Schools

There are two outstanding primary schools in the vicinity, Sheldwich Primary School and Challock Primary School, both just a short drive away. However, these schools are technically out of the village, and getting a spot can be competitive. Sheldwich, for instance, is often the first choice for many families, which makes the admissions process quite the challenge.

Secondary Schools

When it comes to secondary schools, the choices aren’t quite as stellar. There aren’t any outstanding secondary schools in or immediately around Badlesmere, which means you might have to cast your net a bit wider. It’s not uncommon for parents to look towards Faversham or even Ashford for better options.

Parks and Playgrounds

For outdoor activities, Badlesmere offers some lovely parks and open spaces. Kids have plenty of room to run around and enjoy nature, with local trails and the beautiful Kent countryside providing endless opportunities for family outings.

Is Badlesmere expensive?

Let’s talk money. When it comes to property prices, Badlesmere is somewhat of a mixed bag. The average house here is a bit pricier than in some neighbouring areas, but you do get a lot of bang for your buck in terms of space and character. It’s not uncommon to see charming cottages and even the odd farmhouse up for grabs.

However, if you’re looking to rent, you might find yourself in a bit of a bind. Rental properties are scarce, to say the least. This shortage can drive prices up compared to what you might find in nearby Faversham or Ashford. So, if renting is your only option, you might want to weigh the pros and cons carefully.

What transport links are there?

On the transport front, Badlesmere is relatively well-connected given its rural setting. While there’s no train station in the village itself, Faversham is just a short drive away, offering direct routes to London and other major cities.

Bus services are available but not particularly frequent, making a car pretty much essential for day-to-day commuting. That said, the A251 and A252 roads provide convenient access to the M2 motorway, which is handy for those who need to travel further afield regularly.

What amenities are available in Badlesmere?

Now, onto amenities. Badlesmere itself doesn’t boast a bustling high street, but it does have some charming local spots. The Gallery Cafe at Saddlesdane is a lovely place for a coffee and a chat. For a more social evening, The Red Lion bar is a popular local haunt.

For your day-to-day needs, you might need to venture into nearby Faversham or Ashford. Both towns offer a wider range of shops, supermarkets, and healthcare facilities, ensuring you’re never too far from what you need.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you love the great outdoors, Badlesmere won’t disappoint. The surrounding countryside is stunning, with plenty of walking trails and parks to explore. Perry Wood is a local favourite, offering panoramic views of the Kent landscape. Perfect for a Sunday stroll or a more challenging hike.

So, what’s the verdict?

Badlesmere has its charm, especially if you’re after a quiet, rural lifestyle. It’s generally safe, family-friendly, and surrounded by beautiful countryside. However, the lack of immediate amenities and rental properties may be a deal-breaker for some. Schools are a mixed bag, but there are good options if you’re willing to commute a little.

Overall, it’s a lovely place to live if you value peace and quiet and have the means to travel for work and amenities.

What are the alternatives?

If Badlesmere doesn’t quite hit the mark for you, there are a few nearby alternatives worth considering. Faversham offers more in terms of amenities and public transport, while Ashford provides a broader range of schooling options and rental properties.

Each of these areas has its pros and cons, so it’s worth taking the time to visit and see which place feels like home to you. Happy house hunting!