March 15th 2024.
In a recent announcement, the town of Folkestone has been named the 'best place to live in the southeast of England' in The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2024 list. This title was previously held by Whitstable and Margate, but Folkestone has now taken the lead.
Once a popular Victorian and Edwardian resort, Folkestone experienced a decline in the 1960s. However, in recent years, the town has undergone a cultural regeneration, transforming into a lively and vibrant place to live. The 2024 guide states that it is not just the art studios, trendy shops, and restored Harbour Arm that make Folkestone the top choice, but also its impressive schools, modern sports facilities, and high-speed trains to London.
The town's commuter-friendly aspect has also contributed to its popularity, with a journey from Folkestone Central to London St Pancras taking less than an hour. Folkestone offers a diverse range of attractions, including the bustling harbour, the independent shops and galleries in the Creative Quarter, the Folkestone Triennial arts festival, and high-end restaurants. The restored Harbour Arm and original train station, which used to connect with cross-Channel boats, are now part of a new linear park.
The transformation of Folkestone is largely attributed to the investment made by local businessman Sir Roger de Haan, former chairman of the Saga holidays group. His substantial investment has revitalized the town, making it a desirable place to live with its two grammar schools, fast London trains, and the world's first multi-storey skatepark.
In terms of housing prices, the average house price in Folkestone last year was £313,560. Most homes sold were terraced properties, with an average price of £290,132, while flats went for around £210,651, and semi-detached properties for £370,118.
Alexandra Rodriguez-Cifre, 31, who works in corporate communications, and Andrew Morris, 37, owner of a mobile catering business, recently bought a three-bedroom, end-of-terrace Victorian house in Folkestone. They paid £250,000 for it and put down a deposit of £45,000, with the help of Andrew's parents. Alexandra, who is originally from Gran Canaria, loves living by the sea and had previously worked in a hotel in Folkestone after graduating from university. Andrew, on the other hand, grew up in the area and had been living with his parents in a nearby village before moving in with Alexandra.
When asked about their decision to buy a house in Folkestone, Andrew's parents played a significant role as they believe renting is a waste of money. Despite being initially hesitant about the idea of buying a house, as it is more common to rent in Spain, Alexandra soon embraced the idea. They viewed about ten houses, with Alexandra initially preferring a new-build flat, but they ended up buying a house that required a lot of work. Andrew's father, who is an electrician, pointed out the flaws in the upgraded properties they viewed, and they eventually compromised on a house that needed extensive renovation.
The couple has now completed most of the work, including replacing the floorboards, fixing the plumbing and windows, and refurbishing the kitchen. They have spent around £10,000 so far, but a similar property in the next street recently sold for £320,000. When asked about the best things about living in Folkestone, Alexandra mentions her love for the sea, the sense of community, and the creative vibe. She also mentions the town's recent transformation, which has made it a different world compared to how it used to be.
Folkestone offers a range of new housing developments, including Shoreline Crescent, a community of up to 1,000 beachside homes, where prices start at £430,000 for a one-bedroom flat. The Leas Pavilion, a Grade II-listed building that is being restored, offers one, two, and three-bedroom seafront flats, starting at £325,000. Sandgate Pavilions, a luxury development in the coastal village of Sandgate, offers two and three-bedroom flats with stunning views of the English Channel, with prices starting at £675,000. Burgoyne Square at Shorncliffe Heights, part of the redevelopment of a former military base, offers three and four-bedroom houses starting at £319,995. Finally, Imperial Gardens, located in the rural village of Hawkinge, offers two, three, and four-bedroom houses starting at £302,500.
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