UK's 'funky' town that's a 'younger and cheaper version of Brighton'

Folkestone in Kent has been dubbed the 'new Brighton' by many, and it's not hard to see why. The town is a haven for art lovers and is even home to a sculpture that looks like the Eiffel Tower

The coastal town of Folkestone in Kent - often touted as a "younger, fresher and cheaper version of Brighton" - is recognised as one of the region's most affordable spots to snap up a new home.

Once seen as a fading seaside getaway, it's now on the rise, thanks to some strategic rejuvenation efforts. In 2023 The Sunday Times even listed it among the best places to live in the UK.

Folkestone isn't just a fabulous place to set up home - it's also perfect for commuters. It's a comfortable distance from London for daily travel – with a train journey to Kings Cross clocking in at just 55 minutes.

Additionally, it boasts excellent international links, with a Eurotunnel Le Shuttle train whisking you to Calais in a mere 35 minutes. On days when the sky is clear, you can catch a glimpse of France on the horizon.

This means you could be enjoying craft beer in the English capital one weekend and sipping artisanal wine in France the next – the choice is entirely yours, reports the Express.

And for those who adore art, Folkestone is nothing short of paradise. Folkestone ensures there's never a dull moment, with its creative seafront brimming with stunning installations, top-notch street food vendors, and lively pubs.

It's not just about the ease of getting away from the town, but rather what entices you to stay. A steel figure by Anthony Gormley stands sentinel below the harbour arm, contemplating the bay as the tide comes and goes. A bronze mermaid sculpture by Cornelia Parker perches on the rocks above the sandy shore, lending an additional layer of artistic charm to the waterfront.

A nude sculpture in the town was modelled on a real-life resident of Folkestone, who still resides there. She emerged victorious in a competition during the town's triennial celebrations, and her body was used to create a cast for the statue.

Tracey Emin has also left an indelible imprint on the town with several installations featuring lost children's clothes, shoes and toys. These small, unassuming sculptures make for an exciting Easter egg hunt when exploring the town.

Another crowd-pleaser is a collection of six cartoon bungalows scattered around the town - one even floats in the picturesque harbour filled with boats.

The old Victorian train station near the waterfront has been repurposed into a walkable area adorned with art installations on the former tracks. These charming details lend Folkestone a unique character, reflecting the love and care of its community.

Beyond the quirky art installations, the town offers plenty of entertainment. The F51 is the world's first multi-storey skatepark. The Quarterhouse serves as a cultural hub, hosting comedy shows, gigs, films, and even Ted Talks in its modern, state-of-the-art venue.

Local businesses form the vibrant heart of the town, best exemplified by the winding, narrow Old High Street. The colourful shopfronts and local artwork on display are reminiscent of the famous Brighton Laines, offering just as much charm.

Each shop boasts a distinct personality, with fantastic eateries and cafes nestled between bright boutique shops. One standout spot is Steep Street Cafe, where you can enjoy a hot cuppa and cake amidst an enchanting array of second-hand books displayed on library shelves. And for bibliophiles, the good news is that these books are up for grabs.

The town is ideally suited for family living, boasting top-notch schools and stunning English coastal countryside along the striking white chalky downs. But let's delve into what a house might cost if you're considering the big move.

If London's sky-high prices have got you down, you'll be relieved to find that Folkestone is more affordable. Rightmove reports that the average house price in Folkestone last year was £311,721.

Terraced properties were the most commonly sold, fetching an average price of £292,478. Flats went for around £206,772, while semi-detached houses commanded £373,315.

Folkestone's property prices over the past year mirrored those of the previous year and were three percent higher than the 2021 peak of £301,485.

However, there's a downside to life in Folkestone. The town has a relatively high crime rate, ranking it as the third most dangerous medium-sized town in Kent according to CrimeRate.

In 2022, the overall crime rate in Folkestone was 124 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 41 percent higher than the Kent average of 88 per 1,000.

Across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, Folkestone is ranked as the 28th most dangerous medium-sized town and the 407th most dangerous location out of all towns, cities, and villages. However, when compared to London, it's considerably safer than most areas.