If you’re considering shared ownership in Whitstable as a step towards owning your own piece of Kent, Moat have been providing homes in the area for over 25 years. We’ve pulled together some of the key insights we’ve learnt in that time, including the advantages, costs, and availability of shared ownership in this peaceful but well-connected district.
Dreaming of coastal living with a mix of charm, culture and community? Whitstable, a picturesque seaside town in Kent, might just be the perfect place for you. Famous for its oysters, colourful beach huts, and thriving arts scene, Whitstable offers a unique blend of heritage and modern comforts that make it one of the most desirable towns on the Kent coast. Here's why Whitstable could be your next home.
Whitstable is located on the north Kent coast, just five miles north of Canterbury and about 60 miles from London. With excellent road and rail links, including a direct train line to London St. Pancras, it’s an ideal spot for commuters or those looking to escape the hustle of city life.
No place demonstrates Whitstable’s quirky nature more than Harbour Street, with a winding array of shops as well as well as world famous seafood, cafés and restaurants.
Whitstable Harbour is one of the most iconic landmarks in the charming coastal town of Whitstable, located in southeast England. There is a rich history in Whitstable which goes back centuries. The Whitstable Harbour is a particular sight that dates back to the Roman era and is as popular now as it was centuries ago with both residents and tourists
During the Middle Ages, Whitstable became an important centre for oyster cultivation and trade, and the harbour played a crucial role in transporting oysters to London and other major cities in England.
Oysters: Whitstable is well known for its oysters and they have been attracting visitors for many decades.
Saltworks: Saltworks were established around Seasalter Manor in the 14th century.
Canterbury and Whitstable Railway Company: In 1830, the Canterbury and Whitstable Railway Company opened the world's first entirely steam-hauled passenger and freight railway service. The six-mile line connected Canterbury to Whitstable's specially constructed harbour.
Arts and music community: Whitstable has a thriving arts and music community.
Pebble beaches: Whitstable has long, unspoilt pebble beaches.
Beautiful views: One of the winners of the most beautiful sunsets in the UK can be seen from Whitstable’s beaches.
Whitstable’s coastline is its crown jewel. The town boasts pebble beaches, adorned with charming beach huts, and the famous Whitstable Harbour, which bustles with life and character. The beach is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the views over the Thames Estuary. Low tide reveals the Whitstable ‘Street’, a natural causeway ideal for walks.
Whitstable is synonymous with fresh seafood, particularly its world-famous Whitstable oysters. The annual Whitstable Oyster Festival is a highlight, drawing food lovers from across the country. The town is home to fantastic restaurants and cafes, such as:
Wheelers Oyster Bar: A historic spot for fresh, beautifully prepared seafood.
Harbour Street: Packed with artisan bakeries, quirky cafes, and independent eateries.
South Quay Shed: A historic harbourside building which has been revitalised into a vibrant cultural and community space. Hosting events, markets and exhibitions.
Whitstable has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, studios and craft shops throughout the town. The Horsebridge Arts Centre serves as a hub for exhibitions, workshops and live performances.
One of Whitstable’s most endearing qualities is its welcoming and close-knit community. From local markets to charity events, the town fosters a spirit of collaboration and belonging. The town’s independent shops and businesses reflect this ethos, giving Whitstable a distinct character that sets it apart from larger, more commercialised towns.
Living in Whitstable means having nature at your doorstep. In addition to its stunning beaches, the town is surrounded by beautiful countryside. The Crab and Winkle Way, a scenic walking and cycling route, links Whitstable to Canterbury. The nearby Blean Woods National Nature Reserve offers tranquil woodland walks, perfect for dog owners and outdoor enthusiasts.
For families, Whitstable offers a range of highly regarded schools, including both primary and secondary options. The town also has excellent healthcare facilities, a variety of supermarkets and a bustling high street, making it convenient for residents.
Whitstable’s location makes it easy to reach other parts of Kent and beyond. Regular trains to London (1 hour and 20 minutes) make it a popular choice for commuters. The nearby towns of Canterbury and Faversham offer additional amenities, while the Eurotunnel at Folkestone provides quick access to Europe.
For those considering Whitstable, shared ownership presents an attractive opportunity, with a variety of homes available. Shared ownership can be the low-deposit stepping stone you need to own a home in this sought-after area without the financial pressures of buying on the open market.
Shared ownership, a part buy part rent model backed by Homes England, is one of the most affordable home ownership options available in the area, allowing buyers to reduce their initial costs by purchasing a share in a home and paying rent on the remaining value.
Within the scheme, we offer everything from city apartments to family homes, so whether you're looking for shared ownership in Whitstable, Tonbridge & Malling, Gravesham or the wider Kent area, get started on the property ladder with your dream home through Moat.
If you need more information please read through our FAQs, or information hub and deep dive into what is shared ownership here.
For shared ownership properties in the wider Kent area, please see our page on shared ownership Kent.
With its rich history, strong community, and enviable location, Whitstable offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and modern convenience. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of fresh seafood, stunning sunsets, or a welcoming community, Whitstable could be the perfect place to call home.
So why not take a stroll along the harbour, explore the independent shops, or simply sit on the beach and watch the tide roll in? Once you experience Whitstable’s magic, you’ll understand why so many choose to stay.
We are a leading housing association, owning and managing over 23,000 homes in the South East. We are experts in the area and surrounding areas of Kent and Canterbury and have a number of shared ownership homes that are available.
We are incredibly proud to be:
An experienced and compassionate landlord in our communities
Dedicated to building strong relationships with the local authorities in the areas we work in
One of the Homes England delivery partners, developing around 500 new homes every year
Financially strong, allowing us to deliver excellent services to our customers and build new homes
An expert in providing shared ownership
Valeria Bay, New Romney
Julie was worried that she wouldn't be able to buy her own home due to her age, but finding a shared ownership mortgage was easier than she initially thought.
Ashvine Park, Canterbury
Jurga, Daniel and their daughter had outgrown their terrace house in Chatham and wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle of the towns
Edinburgh Way, Harlow
Chantelle never imagined that buying with shared ownership would give her a foot on the property ladder, as well as a high-specification home.
