Is Matfield a Nice Place to Live?

Matfield, a picturesque village located in the heart of Kent, certainly has its charm. Nestled between Royal Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone, it’s known for its lush greenery, historic architecture, and tight-knit community. But is Matfield all it’s cracked up to be? Let’s dive into the details of whether this quaint village is a nice place to live.

Is Matfield safe?

Safety is always a top concern when considering a new place to live. Matfield boasts a rather peaceful environment. Crime statistics suggest that Matfield is considerably safer compared to the regional average, with both general crime and burglaries notably lower. However, it’s worth mentioning that certain spots, like Oakfield Road and Maidstone Road, have seen a few incidents. Despite these occasional hiccups, long-time residents often speak fondly of the village’s tranquillity and the sense of security they feel strolling through the streets, even at night.

Is Matfield a nice place to live for families?

For families considering a move to Matfield, the village offers a mixed bag of pros and cons.

Primary and Secondary Schools

While Matfield might not have any outstanding schools, it does have some good options nearby. Pembury School and Paddock Wood Primary Academy are both within a short drive and have good ratings. However, they are outside Matfield, so securing a spot might be a challenge. For secondary education, Mascalls Academy, also rated good, is another nearby option, although again, not within Matfield itself.

Parks and Playgrounds

Matfield has a picturesque village green where the kids can run around and families can enjoy a picnic on a sunny day. The village also hosts various family-friendly events throughout the year, like the annual summer fete, which brings the community together for a day of fun and games.

Family Activities

For family activities, Matfield offers a charming rural life experience. The surrounding countryside is perfect for weekend hikes and bike rides. Cinderhill Wood and Nature Reserve and Brenchley Wood are just a stone’s throw away, offering lovely spots for a family day out. However, if you’re after more urban entertainment options, you might find yourself heading to nearby towns.

Is Matfield expensive?

When it comes to property prices, Matfield is on the pricier side. The average house price last year was a hefty £815,000. Detached properties, in particular, fetched quite a high price, averaging around £1,295,000. For those looking for something more affordable, semi-detached and terraced properties come in at a more reasonable £605,000 and £450,000 respectively.

In terms of rental properties, Matfield is quite limited, with availability significantly lower than the regional average. If you’re in the market to rent, you might find yourself looking in neighbouring areas like Paddock Wood or Pembury, where the options are more varied.

What transport links are there?

Matfield isn’t the best-connected village if you’re reliant on public transport. There are a few bus routes that can take you to nearby towns, but services can be infrequent. Most residents rely on their cars for commuting. The village is well-situated for road access, with the A21 nearby, making it relatively easy to get to Tunbridge Wells or even London if you’re up for a longer drive. For those who prefer the train, the nearest station is Paddock Wood, a short drive away, offering regular services to London and other major destinations.

What amenities are available in Matfield?

Matfield’s village charm extends to its amenities, which, while limited, are quite delightful. The Poet at Matfield is a local favourite, offering a cosy spot for a meal. For a more casual drink, The Star is a welcoming pub where you can enjoy a pint and a chat with the locals.

In terms of shopping, you won’t find large supermarkets or high street shops here. Instead, there are a few local stores for essential groceries. For more extensive shopping, you’d need to head to nearby towns. There’s also a gym in the village, which is a bonus for fitness enthusiasts.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you love the great outdoors, Matfield won’t disappoint. The village green is a beautiful spot right in the centre, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a game of cricket. Cinderhill Wood and Nature Reserve offer fantastic walking trails and a chance to get closer to nature. Brenchley Wood is another nearby gem, ideal for a peaceful walk or a family adventure. The surrounding countryside is typically Kentish, with rolling fields and quaint lanes that make for lovely weekend explorations.

So, what’s the verdict?

Matfield is a village that offers a peaceful, picturesque setting with a strong sense of community. It’s relatively safe, making it a great choice for families looking for a rural lifestyle. However, the high property prices and limited rental market can be a drawback. The lack of outstanding schools within the village and limited amenities might also be a deal-breaker for some. But if you’re after a quiet, charming village with beautiful surroundings, Matfield could be just the place for you.

What are the alternatives?

If Matfield sounds a bit too quiet or pricey, nearby alternatives like Paddock Wood or Pembury might be worth considering. Paddock Wood offers more in terms of amenities and has better transport links, which is great for commuters. Pembury is another good option, with a wider range of properties and amenities while still maintaining a village feel. Both are still close enough to enjoy the benefits of Matfield’s countryside charm without some of its limitations.