Coastal town named as best place to live in region

Folkestone in Kent has been named the best place to live in South East England.

The town's “eye-catching regeneration” and “impressive schools” helped secure its place in the Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide.

It is one of five locations in Kent, Surrey and Sussex to be included in the South East category.

Judges considered factors including schools, transport, culture, broadband speeds and green spaces.

Tim Palmer, one of the judges, said: “It isn’t only the artists’ studios, the cool shops or the chance to sip cocktails on the restored Harbour Arm that make this resort our best place to live in the south east.

"Folkestone also has impressive schools, state-of-the-art sports facilities and high-speed trains to London.”

Hove and Wadhurst, both in East Sussex, Farnham in Surrey, and Sevenoaks in Kent, were also named among the best places to live in the South East.

Judges visited every location to decide if they should be included in the guide.

Helen Davies, Best Places to Live editor, said: “It is a celebration of towns, cities and villages that are each a fantastic place to live in 2024.

“They have a mature sense of community, lively, supportive high streets and an eye to the future.”

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