Folkestone has transformed into one of Kent’s most exciting coastal towns. Combining beautiful beaches, a growing creative quarter, excellent transport links and a vibrant property market, it’s increasingly popular with families, professionals, retirees and London commuters alike.
 
In this Folkestone guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about living in the town, including the best areas to live, local property prices, schools, transport links and some of our favourite places to eat and drink.

Where is Folkestone?

Folkestone is located on the Kent coast in South East England, around 70 miles south east of London.
 
The town sits between Dover and Hythe and is best known as the home of the Channel Tunnel, providing direct links between the UK and mainland Europe. Folkestone is also positioned on the edge of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering residents easy access to both coastline and countryside.

Is Folkestone a nice place to live?

Folkestone has become one of the South East’s most desirable seaside towns.
 
The town combines a relaxed coastal lifestyle with excellent connectivity. High-speed rail services provide access to London in under an hour, while the vibrant Harbour Arm, Creative Quarter and growing food scene have attracted significant investment and helped transform Folkestone into a thriving destination.
 
Residents enjoy miles of coastline, independent shops, excellent schools, beautiful parks and easy access to some of Kent’s most attractive countryside.

The Best Places to Live in Folkestone

West End
One of Folkestone’s most sought-after locations, the West End is known for its elegant Victorian and Edwardian homes, tree-lined avenues and proximity to The Leas.
The area is particularly popular with families and professionals seeking character properties within walking distance of the town centre and seafront.
 
Sandgate
Located just west of Folkestone, Sandgate offers a charming village atmosphere with a stunning beachfront.
The High Street is home to independent cafés, restaurants and boutique shops, while property ranges from period cottages to impressive waterfront homes.
 
Cheriton
Close to the Channel Tunnel and Ashford Road transport links, Cheriton remains popular with families and commuters.
The area offers excellent value for money and benefits from good schools, parks and amenities.
 
Creative Quarter & Harbour Area
For buyers seeking a more contemporary lifestyle, the Creative Quarter offers converted warehouses, stylish apartments and easy access to Folkestone Harbour and Harbour Arm.
This area has become one of the town’s cultural hotspots, attracting artists, entrepreneurs and young professionals.
 
Broadmead & Shorncliffe
Broadmead and neighbouring Shorncliffe are popular residential areas offering larger family homes, excellent schools and access to scenic countryside walks.

Property for Sale in Folkestone: What You’ll Find

Folkestone’s architecture reflects its rich Victorian heritage.
 
The town offers an impressive mix of property styles, including:
Victorian and Edwardian townhouses
Regency seafront properties
Character apartments
Period cottages
Modern developments around the harbour
Family homes in established residential neighbourhoods
 
The West End and The Leas are particularly renowned for their grand period properties, many of which enjoy sea views across the English Channel.

Is Folkestone Expensive to Live In?

While property values have increased significantly in recent years, Folkestone remains more affordable than many parts of London and some nearby commuter hotspots in Kent.
 
The town continues to attract buyers seeking better value, more space and a coastal lifestyle without sacrificing transport connectivity.
 

Property to Rent in Folkestone

The rental market in Folkestone is diverse and continues to experience strong demand.
 
Rental properties range from:
Modern harbour apartments
Period conversions
Family homes
Seafront properties
Character cottages
 
The town’s popularity with commuters and remote workers has helped support rental demand, making Folkestone an attractive proposition for buy-to-let investors.

Folkestone Schools and Education

 Folkestone offers a strong selection of primary and secondary schools, making it particularly attractive to families.
 
The town is home to highly regarded grammar schools including:
Folkestone School for Girls
Harvey Grammar School
 
Other popular schools include:
Turner Free School
Folkestone Academy
Sandgate Primary School
St Eanswythe’s Church of England Primary School
 
For further education, nearby Canterbury provides access to several universities, while Ashford and Dover also offer excellent educational opportunities.

Folkestone Transport Links

One of Folkestone’s strongest selling points is its excellent connectivity.
 
Rail Links
Folkestone Central and Folkestone West stations provide High Speed services to London St Pancras.
Journey times are typically under an hour, making Folkestone one of the UK’s most attractive coastal commuter locations.
 
Road Links
The M20 motorway connects Folkestone directly with Ashford, Maidstone, the M25 and London.
The A20 also provides easy access to Dover and surrounding coastal towns.
 
European Travel
Folkestone is home to the Channel Tunnel terminal, providing fast access to France and mainland Europe.
This international connectivity is unique among UK coastal towns and remains a major attraction for residents and businesses.
 

Folkestone’s Best Restaurants and Pubs

The town’s food and drink scene has developed dramatically over the past decade.
 

Five of the Best Pubs

1. The Pullman
A Folkestone institution offering great food, local ales and a welcoming atmosphere.
2. The Ship Inn
Located in nearby Sandgate, this traditional pub enjoys stunning sea views and a strong local following.
3. The Radnor Arms
Popular with locals and visitors alike, serving classic pub food and a range of drinks.
4. The British Lion
A historic pub with plenty of character and a friendly community feel.
5. The Chambers
One of Folkestone’s most unique venues, combining a pub, restaurant and boutique accommodation.
 

Five of the Best Restaurants

1. Rocksalt
One of Kent’s most celebrated restaurants, Rocksalt offers spectacular harbour views and an exceptional seafood menu.
 2. Harbour Inn Kitchen
Located on the Harbour Arm, serving fresh local produce in a unique waterfront setting.
 3. The Smokehouse
Famous for barbecue dishes and relaxed dining by the sea.
 4. Annapurna
A long-established favourite known for excellent Nepalese cuisine.
 5. Luben
A highly regarded independent restaurant serving modern European dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

Things to Do in Folkestone

Folkestone offers an excellent balance of culture, leisure and outdoor activities.
 
Popular attractions include:
Folkestone Harbour Arm
Sunny Sands Beach
The Leas and Leas Cliff Hall
Folkestone Creative Quarter
Lower Leas Coastal Park
Battle of Britain Memorial
Kent Downs countryside walks
Sandgate beachfront
 
The town also hosts regular festivals, live music events, art exhibitions and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.
 
For outdoor enthusiasts, there are excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, paddleboarding, swimming and sailing.

Why People Love Living in Folkestone

Folkestone successfully combines:
A vibrant arts and culture scene
Independent businesses and restaurants
Beautiful coastal surroundings
Fast London connections
Excellent schools
Strong community spirit
Access to Europe
A diverse range of property options
 
Whether you’re looking for a family home, a coastal apartment, an investment property or a place to enjoy a better work-life balance, Folkestone has something to offer.
 

Thinking of Moving to Folkestone?

Our local team at Martin & Co Folkestone would be delighted to help you find your ideal property or provide expert advice on buying, selling, letting or investing in the area.

Local News & Guides

View All News

Contact Us

Folkestone

130 Sandgate Road, 
Folkestone, 
Kent, 
CT20 2BW, 
England

Opening Times

Monday 9:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 9:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 9:00 - 17:00
Thursday 9:00 - 17:00
Friday 9:00 - 17:00
Saturday 9:00 - 13:00 Contact Office