Is Cheriton a Nice Place to Live?

Ah, Cheriton. Nestled in the heart of Folkestone, Kent, it’s a place that’s often talked about in hushed tones of curiosity. But is it really a gem or just another ordinary spot on the map? Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what Cheriton has to offer – the good, the bad, and the peculiar.

Is Cheriton safe?

When it comes to safety, Cheriton is a bit of a mixed bag. The crime statistics here show that overall crime rates are about 35% higher than the regional average. However, there are some positives – burglary rates are actually 12% lower than what you’d expect in the surrounding areas. Most of the crime here seems to happen in specific spots, like near parking areas and petrol stations. But hey, that’s not uncommon, is it? Cheriton residents generally feel safe, especially in the quieter residential zones. It’s important to keep your wits about you, but that’s true for most places these days.

Is Cheriton a nice place to live for families?

If you’re considering moving to Cheriton with your brood, you’ll find it has its charms. The area boasts some excellent schools, both primary and secondary. However, getting a spot in one of these top-notch schools can sometimes be a bit tricky.

Primary Schools

Cheriton has a variety of primary schools to choose from. Folkestone, St Martin’s Church of England Primary School is often praised for its outstanding performance. Then there’s Harcourt Primary School and All Soul’s Church of England Primary School, both of which are rated as good. While these schools are technically in the surrounding areas, competition for places can be fierce, so it might be wise to have a backup plan.

Secondary Schools

When it comes to secondary education, The Harvey Grammar School is the star of the show – it’s outstanding. Turner Free School is another solid choice, marked as good. But again, these schools are just a stone’s throw away and not exactly within Cheriton’s borders, making the school run a bit more of a commute than you might prefer.

Parks and Playgrounds

Cheriton isn’t short on green spaces for the kids to burn off energy. There are several playgrounds and parks dotted around, offering plenty of options for family outings. Whether it’s a quick visit to a local play area or a more extended adventure in one of the larger parks, you’re covered.

Is Cheriton expensive?

The property market in Cheriton is quite varied. Over the past year, the average price of a home here was around £320,000. Terraced houses seem to be the most common, averaging at £290,000. If you’re after a semi-detached property, you’re looking at about £330,000, while flats go for around £205,000.

When it comes to renting, availability is about 59% compared to the regional average. You can find a two-bedroom apartment for around £1250 per month, while a three-bedroom terraced house might set you back £1300. There are cheaper and more expensive areas within Cheriton, so it’s worth doing a bit of research depending on your budget.

What transport links are there?

Getting around from Cheriton is pretty straightforward. You’ve got reliable bus routes that can whisk you off to Folkestone and beyond. If you’re a driver, the road links are decent, with the M20 nearby making trips to London and other cities relatively painless. For those who prefer to travel by train, Folkestone Central is your best bet, offering regular services to London and other destinations.

What amenities are available in Cheriton?

Cheriton has a decent array of amenities to keep you busy. When you get peckish, there are fast food joints like McDonald’s and LEON Eurotunnel, or if you fancy something different, Himalayan Cafe & Takeaway or DAOW’S KITCHEN offer more exotic fare. Pubs are aplenty too, with local favourites like The Royal Cheriton and Finn’s providing spots to unwind.

Shopping-wise, you’re sorted with a Tesco Superstore and M&S Simply Food for your grocery needs. There’s also a Co-op Food and Everest Cash & Carry for those quick stops. Other amenities include a post office, several hair salons, veterinary care, fitness centres, pharmacies, and a library. Everything you need is pretty much within arm’s reach.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that Cheriton isn’t short on natural beauty. There are several parks like Cheriton Recreation Area and Golden Valley Park where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. The surrounding countryside also offers plenty of walking trails and scenic views for those who like to explore further afield.

So, what’s the verdict?

All in all, Cheriton has its pros and cons. It’s a place with a strong sense of community, decent schools, and a variety of amenities. On the flip side, the crime rate is a bit higher than average, and competition for school places can be tough. House prices are reasonable, but it pays to shop around. If you value accessibility and a friendly atmosphere, Cheriton might just be the place for you.

What are the alternatives?

If Cheriton doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, there are nearby areas worth considering. Folkestone offers a bit more in terms of urban amenities and has a similar price range. Sandgate is another option if you’re looking for something a bit more upmarket with stunning sea views. Hythe provides a quieter, more relaxed environment but comes with a slightly higher price tag. Each of these areas has its own unique charm, so it’s worth taking a closer look to see what fits your lifestyle best.

In the end, it all comes down to what you’re looking for. If Cheriton resonates with you, it might just become your new home. If not, there are plenty of other fish in the sea, or rather, plenty of other towns in Kent.