Area Guide

🏡 Southborough: A Hidden Gem in Kent with Great Property Potential

Introduction to Southborough

Southborough, a charming town located just north of Tunbridge Wells, offers a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle with all the benefits of rural surroundings and proximity to urban amenities. With a rich history dating back to the 18th century, Southborough is a sought-after area for families, professionals, and property investors alike. Its attractive mix of traditional homes, local amenities, and excellent transport links make it an appealing location for anyone considering moving to or investing in property in Kent.

The Best of Both Worlds: Tranquil Living Close to Tunbridge Wells

Southborough offers a perfect balance of tranquil living and easy access to nearby Tunbridge Wells, making it an ideal place for those looking to enjoy a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to a thriving town. The town itself has a tight-knit community, with a mix of charming period homes, modern developments, and green spaces. For those looking to buy property in Southborough, it offers a variety of homes ranging from characterful Victorian houses to contemporary new builds.

History and Heritage of Southborough

Southborough’s history can be traced back to the 18th century when it began to gain popularity as a health resort. The town’s historic charm can be seen in its many period buildings and landmarks. The development of Southborough as a residential area was significantly influenced by the arrival of the railways in the 19th century, making it a desirable location for commuters to London.

Today, Southborough is a mix of both historical and modern properties, with areas like Southborough Common showcasing the town’s heritage. The local War Memorial and traditional high street serve as reminders of the town’s roots, while modern developments continue to add to its appeal.

Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities

One of the standout features of Southborough is its wealth of green spaces and access to outdoor activities, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Southborough Common

The 71-acre Southborough Common is a central feature of the town, providing an expansive area of open space for residents to enjoy. A perfect place for walks, picnics, or outdoor sports, the Common has been a recreational area for over 200 years. It is also home to a cricket pitch, where matches have been played since the 19th century. Southborough Common is a great place to relax, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors with family and friends.

Salomons Estate

Just outside the town centre, the Salomons Estate is a beautiful 36-acre parkland surrounding a Victorian mansion. The estate offers scenic walks, a museum, and a café. It’s a great spot for a peaceful afternoon or a stroll through the woodlands. The estate’s tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect getaway within easy reach of Southborough’s town centre.

Bidborough and Speldhurst Walks

Nearby Bidborough and Speldhurst, two charming villages close to Southborough, offer excellent walking routes through ancient woodlands and open countryside. These areas are perfect for those who love exploring nature, with several trails suitable for hikers of all levels.

Property in Southborough: Why It’s an Ideal Investment

Southborough offers a range of property types, making it an attractive place for those looking to buy, rent, or invest in real estate in Kent. The town’s popularity is on the rise, with its blend of affordability, green spaces, and proximity to Tunbridge Wells making it an appealing choice for people looking to relocate.

Types of Properties in Southborough

The property market in Southborough offers a variety of homes to suit different tastes and budgets. Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses, charming cottages, and semi-detached homes are available, alongside modern apartment complexes and newly-built homes. Whether you are looking for a family home, a first-time purchase, or a property to let, Southborough has a wealth of options.

Southborough is also home to several new-build developments, providing modern homes with energy-efficient features and contemporary designs. These properties are perfect for those looking for a low-maintenance home with all the benefits of new technology and design.

Affordability Compared to Tunbridge Wells

While Tunbridge Wells is a highly desirable place to live, Southborough offers more affordable property options without compromising on quality of life. Property prices in Southborough are generally lower than in Tunbridge Wells, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers, families, and investors looking for good value.

The proximity to Tunbridge Wells means that residents of Southborough can enjoy the same local amenities, shopping, and entertainment options, without the higher price tag. For property investors, this creates an excellent opportunity to purchase rental properties with strong demand from tenants looking for convenient access to Tunbridge Wells, but at a lower cost.

Local Amenities and Services

Southborough offers a wide range of amenities that cater to the needs of its residents. The town has a well-stocked high street with local shops, cafés, and services. Whether you’re looking for a local butcher, bakery, or pharmacy, Southborough’s high street has a great selection of independent shops.

The town is also home to excellent schools, including Southborough Primary School, providing good educational opportunities for families. Nearby Tunbridge Wells offers a wide selection of secondary schools, including grammar schools, ensuring families have access to quality education.

For those in need of health services, Southborough has its own medical centre, as well as several dental practices and opticians. The town is also well-served by public transport, with regular bus services connecting residents to Tunbridge Wells and beyond. The nearby Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells railway stations provide fast connections to London, making Southborough an ideal location for commuters.

Commuting and Transport Links

Southborough benefits from excellent transport links, making it a popular choice for commuters. The town is located just a short drive from the A21, which provides easy access to the M25 and London. Tunbridge Wells train station is just a short bus ride away and offers direct services to London Charing Cross, with a journey time of around 45 minutes.

For those who prefer cycling, Southborough is part of the National Cycle Network, with several cycling routes linking it to nearby towns and villages. The town also has good bus services, with routes connecting to Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, and other nearby areas.

Why Choose Southborough?

Southborough is an excellent place to live or invest in property, offering a mix of historical charm, modern amenities, and green spaces. Its proximity to Tunbridge Wells means residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful and family-friendly town with easy access to a larger urban area.

The affordability of property in Southborough, combined with its strong community spirit, excellent schools, and abundant outdoor activities, make it a highly attractive location for families, professionals, and property investors alike.

Whether you’re looking for a first-time home, a family property, or a long-term investment opportunity, Southborough offers excellent potential for growth. Its unique combination of historic character, modern conveniences, and access to stunning natural landscapes make it a great place to settle down or invest in Kent.

In conclusion, Southborough is an up-and-coming area in Kent with a strong sense of community, excellent amenities, and good transport links. Its mix of affordable properties, beautiful green spaces, and proximity to Tunbridge Wells make it a highly desirable location for anyone looking to buy or invest in real estate in the region.