Area Information

Hoath is a semi-rural civil parish located in the City of Canterbury district in Kent, South East England. This village encompasses several distinct hamlets, including Knaves Ash, Maypole, Ford, Old Tree, Shelvingford, and Stoney Acre. The parish covers an area of 6.5 square kilometres, offering residents a quiet countryside atmosphere defined by its scattered settlements. Historically significant, Hoath derives its name from the Old English word *hāð*, meaning heath or uncultivated land. The area possesses deep historical roots, having been part of an estate granted by King Ecgberht of Kent in 669. Residents today live near the Grade II listed Holy Cross Church, which was renovated between 1866 and 1867, and close to the historic site of Ford Palace. Formerly home to a general aviation airfield that closed in May 2021, the location now focuses on its pastoral character. Living in Hoath means experiencing the legacy of Robert Hunt, who was born here in the late 1560s and later served as chaplain to the 1607 Jamestown expedition. You will find small amenities such as a village hall and the Prince of Wales pub situated at Maypole, while enjoying the proximity to the Canterbury Cathedral city centre.

Area Type
Parish
Area Size
6.5 km²
Population
Not available
Population Density
Not available

Demographics

The community in Hoath displays a clear demographic profile characterised by an older population. With a median age of 70, the area caters primarily to retirees and those in later stages of life. Most residents fall into the total age bracket, reflecting a lack of young families or working-age individuals in the local statistics. Around 65 per cent of households in Hoath are owner-occupied, indicating a strong sense of long-term settlement and stability within the village. This high level of home ownership suggests that many people purchased their properties years ago and have remained settled rather than moving frequently. The available data does not specify details regarding household composition, predominant ethnic groups, or religious affiliation, but the age statistics alone paint a picture of a quiet retirement destination. For those considering homes in Hoath, the environment is dominated by an older demographic rather than a transient population of young professionals or students. You should expect a neighbourly community where residents likely know one another well, given the low turnover associated with the area's age profile and high ownership rate.

Household Size

total
most common

Accommodation Type

total
most common

Tenure

65
majority

Ethnic Group

total
most common

Religion

total
most common

Household Composition

total
most common

Age

70
median
Age: Total
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

30
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Locked
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Locked
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Locked
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Locked
  • Protected Woodland
    Locked
  • Crime Risk
    Locked

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Open Planning map

Frequently Asked Questions

Who typically lives in Hoath and what is the community like?
The community is predominantly older, with a median age of 70. Around 65 per cent of households are owner-occupied, suggesting a stable, settled population of retirees rather than transient renters. The area encompasses hamlets such as Maypole and Ford, creating a semi-rural atmosphere suitable for those seeking a quiet retirement setting.
How good is the internet and mobile coverage for remote working?
Mobile coverage is strong with a score of 84 out of 100, ensuring reliable phone and mobile data usage across the parish. However, fixed broadband quality is poor, scoring only 17 out of 100. Residents who require high-speed internet for professional work should verify line availability before moving, as the infrastructure may not support consistent home office needs.
What safety issues should I be aware of when living in Hoath?
The area has a medium crime risk level with a score of 63 out of 100, meaning crime rates are average and standard security precautions are advisable. Environmentally, the parish is flood free with a low risk score, but it contains protected nature reserves and woodland. These protected areas subject the 6.5 square kilometre area to planning constraints that limit some construction activities.

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