Living in Whitstable

About Whitstable

From wandering through cobbled streets and browsing independent shops to relaxing by the colourful beach huts along the shore, the area offers plenty of charm. It’s a favourite spot for both locals and visitors, with regular community events and a strong sense of pride. 

Fact file

• Location - North Kent, between Faversham and Herne Bay
• Key attractions - Whitstable harbour, Whitstable beach, Whitstable Castle & Gardens, Sea Scrub Sauna 
• Lifestyle - Independent shops & cafes, growing arts and food scene, coastal 
• Surrounding areas - Chestfield, Swalecliffe, Tankerton, Seasalter
   

Architecture and property

Whitstable is a mix of old and new housing, reflecting its rich coastal heritage and growing popularity as a place to live. The town centre is filled with Victorian terraces, quaint cottages and Edwardian homes, especially closer to the harbour. Along the coast, you’ll find modern, newly built beachfront homes, while areas like Chestfield offer a wider mix of properties for sale and rent, with more space and greenery. The property market remains strong, with high demand for coastal homes and the added appeal of easy access to London.

Going out

Whitstable offers a wide variety of restaurants and bars to suit every taste, so you'll never be short of options. From traditional pubs and stylish gastropubs like The Lazy Lobster, to familiar chains such as Zizzi. Local favourites like Harbour Street Tapas and The Lobster Shack highlight the town's seaside charm, while popular spots for drinks include Rock Lodge and The Old Neptune, which is located right on the seafront.

There's also plenty to enjoy beyond food and drink - from scenic strolls along the harbour, to having a chill evening at the Sea Sauana Scrub on the sea front, to vibrant local events like the Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival, which celebrates the town's rich heritage.

Local amenities 

The high street is full of charm, offering a mix of independent shops, bakeries, ice cream parlours and boutiques, alongside familiar names like Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Costa Coffee. Down by the harbour, you’ll find lively markets and artisan stalls that capture the town’s unique charm. Essential services such as pharmacies, GP practices, dentists and gyms are all within easy walking distance, making Whitstable a highly accessible and well-connected place.

Green spaces

Being on the coast is a big part of Whitstable's appeal. From the green slopes of Tankerton to the town’s well-known pebbled beach, there are plenty of scenic spots. You can take a peaceful seafront walk all the way to Herne Bay, taking in the sea views, or explore the coastline on one of the dedicated cycle routes.