New Build Homes in Kent

Looking for a new home in Kent?

This county is a mix of agricultural countryside, coastal features and town land, making it popular for families and commuters who want a mix of rural and modern living.

Kent is often referred to as the ‘Garden of England’ because of its lush countryside, abundant orchards, and historic hop gardens.

The county has a distinct character, with charming villages featuring weatherboarded cottages, tile-hung houses, and iconic oast houses once used for drying hops.

Kent isn’t just beautiful—it’s practical too. Its location offers excellent connectivity to London and Europe via the Channel Tunnel, making it popular with commuters and those who travel frequently.

From the historic streets of Canterbury to the elegant spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent is an ideal location for families, professionals, and investors.

Whether you're looking for a spacious family home or a stylish apartment, our properties are located in prime areas with outstanding amenities.

View our homes in Hildenborough and Paddock Wood.

An image of the Green space available at Paddock Wood

About Kent

Set just below London and perched on England's south eastern coast, Kent is one of the Home Counties surrounding the capital.  

Its western borders are taken up by Surrey and East Sussex, while to the north it shares a border with Essex.

To the east lies the United Kingdom's coastline and the English Channel. Kent's close proximity to London has made it a sought-after destination for many commuters who appreciate the slower pace that country life brings compared to the city. 

Its enchanting parishes each have something to offer, whether it's the golden beaches of Margate, the refined elegance of Royal Tunbridge Wells or the regal legacy of Canterbury. 

Traditionally agricultural, Kent has evolved into a mix of farming, tourism, and commuter towns. Its landscape is dotted with orchards, vineyards, and hop gardens.

Kent Highlights

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Excellent schools

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Local artisan vendors
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Strong community spirit
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Outstanding commuter links 
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Scenic countryside
An image of a couple at Paddock Wood

Living in Kent

Kent offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life compared to London, with plenty of outdoor activities on the doorstep such as hiking, cycling, and visiting coastal towns such as Whitstable, Broadstairs, and Deal.  

Day‑to‑day life in Kent feels convenient and effortless, with good local shops, friendly independent cafés, and easy access to essentials without the hustle of city living—making everyday routines calmer and more enjoyable.

Kent’s strong sense of community is one of its biggest draws. Villages and market towns host regular farmers’ markets, local festivals, food fairs, and cultural events, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both longstanding residents and newcomers. 

Excellent local amenities, strong connectivity and community‑focused lifestyle makes Kent an ideal place to put down long‑term roots for families, retirees and London commuters.

Lake and new build homes at the Foal Hurst Green development, Kent

Where to Live in Kent 

Hildenborough

Hildenborough is a village in Kent, situated between Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, known for its peaceful countryside setting. Our Oakhill development of houses and apartments offers exclusive residents’ facilities within a gated parkland estate.  

Paddock Wood

Paddock Wood is a small town in Kent, historically a hub for hop growing and fruit farming. Our development in Foal Hurst Green is set on the edge of a nature reserve. This neighbourhood offers contemporary three- to five-bedroom homes with open-plan layouts, private gardens, and sustainable design.

The spires of Canterbury Cathedral in Kent

History of Kent

Kent’s story stretches back to Roman times, with ancient roads and settlements still forming part of the landscape today. 

Kent is home to Canterbury Cathedral, the heart of English Christianity since the martyrdom of St Thomas Becket in 1170. The county also boasts Leeds Castle, often called “the loveliest castle in the world”, and Dover Castle, a fortress that has guarded England’s shores for centuries. Kent’s coastline has played a vital role in national defense, from medieval invasions to World War II. 

Its market towns, historic villages, and rolling countryside have inspired generations of writers and artists, including JMW Turner, who drew inspiration from Kent’s dramatic skies and coastal light, and Charles Dickens, who lived in Rochester and Broadstairs. 

Today, Kent blends this remarkable heritage with modern living, offering a unique mix of historic landmarks, scenic beauty, and contemporary development. 

St Katherine's School Pupils in Kent

Education in Kent

Kent provides strong education opportunities, making it a top choice for families. 

As the largest remaining grammar school area in England, Kent boasts 32 fully selective grammar schools, offering outstanding academic standards.

The region is also home to a wealth of independent options, with over 350 private schools across the South East. 

Families also benefit from the close proximity to leading universities such as the University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University, and the University for the Creative Arts, ensuring a strong educational foundation at every stage. 

Explore our new homes near top-performing schools to give your children the best start in life.

Tonbridge Castle and surrounding grounds in Kent

Things to Do in Kent

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Paddock Wood train station, Kent

Commuting from Kent

A new build home in Kent is ideal for London commuters. 

Kent offers fast and reliable rail connections to London, with direct services from Sevenoaks, Ashford, and Tunbridge Wells, typically reaching the capital in around 30–45 minutes. 

By road, the M20, M2, and A2 provide convenient access to London and Heathrow Airport, making Kent well suited to both daily commuting and wider travel. 

The port at Dover is also a major British transport hub with up to 29 ferries departing daily for Calais in France. 

Towns such as Ashford and Maidstone are home to growing business hubs and major employers, offering opportunities to work locally for those wishing to reduce or avoid a regular City commute. 

Lake and new build homes at the Foal Hurst Green development, Kent

New Build Homes for Sale in Kent 

Berkeley Group creates thoughtfully designed communities in some of Kent’s most picturesque and well‑connected locations. 

From beautifully landscaped settings (such as the serene duck pond and gazebo at Foal Hurst Green) to carefully curated communal spaces, each development is shaped to enhance everyday wellbeing.  

Every property is crafted with sustainability at its core. The energy‑ and water‑efficient design, environmentally sensitive landscaping, and future‑ready materials support a thriving, natural environment while reducing the impact of everyday living. 

Explore new build homes in Kent and discover your ideal countryside property today.

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Find your Kent home today in Oakhill or Foal Hurst Green

See Our Developments in Neighbouring Counties

Kent Property FAQs

Why is Kent called the “Garden of England”?

Kent earned its famous nickname thanks to its fertile soil, mild climate, and centuries-old tradition of fruit growing and hop farming. The title is widely associated with Tudor times when King Henry VIII praised Kentish cherries and ordered commercial orchards to be planted.

Today, the county remains synonymous with orchards, vineyards, and oast houses, producing apples, cherries, and award-winning wines. 

Is Kent more rural or urban?

Kent is predominantly rural but offers a strong urban presence. Around 72% of its population lives in urban areas, including towns like Maidstone, Canterbury, and Ashford, while the remaining 28% enjoy life in villages and countryside settings.

This balance means residents can choose between bustling town centres with modern amenities and peaceful rural retreats surrounded by green belt land.  

How does Kent compare to living in London?

Kent provides a calmer, greener lifestyle at a lower cost than London, while keeping you well-connected. Unlike London’s dense urban environment, Kent offers space, fresh air, and access to beaches and countryside, making it ideal for those seeking balance without losing city access.  

New Homes Kent - Key Sources

Content created by Berkeley Content Team. (Last updated February 2026)