From stunning coastal scenery and bracing sea air to the rolling green serenity and background birdsong of the countryside, the UK is home to an abundance of beautiful places to buy a home. But which holds the most charm – the coast or the country? We’re putting two collections of new homes in the spotlight to find out…
Launching in April, Kingsgate Place in Broadstairs, Kent, is a scenic coastal collection of 24 beautifully designed homes. Seaside homes in Kent are aplenty, but the impressive location of these new houses delivers unparalleled views that stretch across the greenery of North Foreland Golf Courses to the sea with many of the five and six bedroom homes enjoying a gorgeous sea view.
Situated just to the north of the popular and historic seaside town centre of Broadstairs, Kingsgate Place offers all the benefits associated with living by the coast. Studies have shown that spending time in and near the sea can deliver a boost to mental and physical health, including to the immune system.
The coastal lifestyle also presents plenty of opportunities for spending time outdoors. Joss Bay, which Kingsgate Place overlooks, has been home to a thriving surf school for more than 25 years, with stand-up paddle boarding also on offer. The local coast is popular with sea swimmers, with regular social swims and races taking place.
Back on dry land, the restorative sea air and marvellous views make for an inspiring backdrop for runs and cycle rides, while playing the golf courses overlooking the sea feels like a treat for both body and mind. For younger residents, the golden sands of the Blue Flag beach at Joss Bay are perfect for long, lazy days spent playing, picnicking and building sandcastles.
Before you drop everything and move to the seaside, it’s important to note that countryside living also has some enticing benefits. Indeed, a study published by the University of Exeter has found that “Green Social Prescribing” can promote wellbeing and improve mental health; living surrounded by greenery literally makes people happier.[1]
This is certainly not lost on residents of Summerfield in Staple, a cosy country village in a delightful rural setting in Kent. Summerfield is home to 17 exquisitely crafted new homes in Staple, including 11 impressive, four-bedroom detached houses. Generously sized gardens and a pretty landscaped green with a pond at the heart of the development mirror the abundance of nature that surrounds the site. Walk, hike, cycle or ride in any direction from Staple and you’ll find mile upon mile of rolling fields interspersed with ancient churches, farm shops selling locally grown produce, vineyards and welcoming country pubs serving hearty meals.
Being part of a closeknit community and enjoying opportunities for spending time outdoors are key attractions of countryside living. Staple firmly ticks both boxes, with villagers enjoying an active social life, the highlight of which is the annual Staple Country Fayre, which has taken place since at least the early 1500s. Parent, toddler and youth groups meet regularly in the village, as does the Staple Short Mat Bowls Club. The local parish church also runs a diverse calendar of events, including quizzes, bingo nights, coffee mornings, garden parties and an annual dog show.
Living in the Kent countryside also means enjoying locally produced food and drink. Barnsole Vineyard, just outside Staple, is known for its outstanding selection of white, red and sparkling wines, with tasting tours available. The Kent countryside is also home to an array of pick-your-own farms, fruit juice producers, farm shops, cheese makers and bakeries, celebrating the best of local produce in the ‘garden of England’.
Torn between the temptations of the countryside and the charms of the coast? Why not book viewings at Kingsgate Place and Summerfield to find out more?
Prices at Summerfield start from £800,000, with further information available here. To find out more about Kingsgate Place, click here.
[1] https://news.exeter.ac.uk/faculty-of-health-and-life-sciences/new-research-has-found-prescribing-nature-can-improve-happiness-and-reduce-anxiety/