What’s it like living in Kettering?
Geography and Housing
Kettering, located in Northamptonshire, offers a mix of traditional market town life with modern developments and good transport links, making it an appealing choice for homebuyers. While it may not be the most glamorous place, it has its own appeal, providing a balanced lifestyle with access to both town amenities and countryside tranquility.
Kettering sits on the northern edge of Northamptonshire, surrounded by picturesque countryside. The town itself has a variety of properties to choose from, from period homes in the town centre to modern new builds on the outskirts. While the town centre could benefit from some regeneration, it’s far from dead—offering a blend of local shops, cafes and historical landmarks. Kettering’s position means it’s close to larger towns and cities, with direct transport links to Northampton, Leicester and London.
The town’s housing market reflects its accessibility and diversity. Semi-detached and terraced homes dominate the area, with many newly developed properties in locations like Hanwood Park and Maplefields, which cater to those seeking modern, energy-efficient homes. There’s also a range of older properties, many dating back to the Victorian and Edwardian eras, offering character and charm for those who prefer traditional housing styles.
Unique Attributes of Kettering
Kettering is often described as neither particularly horrible nor particularly nice—like many market towns, it has a bit of everything. The town centre isn’t thriving, but it’s not abandoned either. It’s a working town, where independent shops and cafes sit alongside national chains. Local landmarks like All Saints’ Church and the Kettering Museum highlight the town’s rich history, while areas like Wicksteed Park offer outdoor recreation for families.
The town does have a reputation for its hospital, which some locals feel has a poor standing. Whether you’re exploring Pytchley Woods or the Weldon Wood, the area offers peaceful green spaces and easy access to the countryside.
Neighbourhoods and Amenities
Kettering offers a range of neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct feel. Areas like Rothwell Road and Windmill Avenue are quiet residential areas, perfect for families looking for peace and convenience. If you’re looking for something closer to the action, the town centre provides easy access to shops, cafes and local businesses, though some parts of the town centre could use some improvement.
For foodies, Kettering offers a range of restaurants and pubs. There are some great places to eat in the town, serving a variety of cuisines. Additionally, the nearby villages, such as Warkton and Pytchley, are home to traditional country pubs, ideal for a relaxed evening out.
Architectural Traits and Building Materials
Kettering’s property market features a wide variety of architectural styles. Older homes in the town often feature red brick, traditional sash windows and period details, with some offering substantial period charm. Many of the newer developments, like those found in Hanwood Park or Maplefields, are modern, with energy-efficient materials and contemporary designs. These newer homes tend to have open-plan layouts and larger windows, catering to families and first-time buyers who seek a more modern lifestyle.
The mix of older and new homes means potential buyers can choose between well-maintained period homes or newly-built, low-maintenance properties designed for contemporary living.
Flooding Risk and Radon Levels
Kettering, like much of Northamptonshire, is prone to flooding in certain areas, particularly those located near the River Ise and other local watercourses. However, the flood risk is relatively low for most residential areas in the town. Homebuyers should still check flood risk maps to ensure they are not purchasing in a higher-risk area.
In terms of radon levels, Kettering is generally considered a low-risk area. However, it’s always a good idea for potential homeowners to check the specific property they are considering, especially if it’s an older building or one located near natural fault lines.
Transportation and Connectivity
Kettering benefits from excellent transport links, particularly when it comes to rail travel. The Kettering Railway Station is on the East Midlands Railway line, offering frequent services to London St Pancras in about an hour, as well as connections to Leicester and Nottingham. The town also sits near the A14 and A43 roads, providing good road access to nearby towns and cities, including Northampton and Corby.
For those who travel frequently for work or leisure, Kettering’s transport links are a key benefit. The railway connections are widely regarded as being better than those from neighbouring towns like Northampton, making it an attractive choice for commuters.
Education and Family Life
Kettering offers a variety of education options for families, with several well-regarded primary and secondary schools, including Kettering Buccleuch Academy and Broughton Junior School. There are also opportunities for further education at Tresham College and nearby universities in Northampton and Leicester offer higher education options.
In addition to education, Kettering has plenty of family-friendly amenities, including parks, playgrounds and local leisure centres. Wicksteed Park is a standout location for families, offering a mix of amusement park rides, walking trails and green spaces for picnics and outdoor activities.
Comparison with Nearby Areas
While Kettering is often considered less picturesque than nearby towns like Northampton, it has the advantage of being more affordable, with a good mix of period homes and new developments. It also offers excellent transport links, including better rail services than nearby towns such as Corby.
Conclusion
Kettering is a market town with its ups and downs but is definitely worth considering for homebuyers looking for a balance between affordability and quality of life. With its rich history, solid transport links and mix of modern and period homes, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re commuting to London or seeking a more relaxed pace of life in a market town, Kettering could be the perfect place to call home.
Where’s the best place to live in Kettering?
1. Barton Seagrave
A quiet and desirable residential area located to the east of Kettering. It’s known for its spacious homes, proximity to the countryside and good local amenities, including schools and parks. It’s ideal for families looking for a peaceful environment with easy access to Kettering town centre.
2. Wicksteed Park
Situated near the scenic Wicksteed Park, this area is perfect for those who want to live close to green spaces while still being near the town centre. It’s a great spot for families, with good recreational facilities and local schools. The area has a mix of traditional and modern housing options.
3. Pytchley
A small village on the outskirts of Kettering, Pytchley offers a more rural setting with easy access to the town. It’s a great place for those looking for a quiet, village lifestyle, with picturesque countryside views and a strong community atmosphere. It also has a popular local pub.
4. Kettering Town Centre
For those who prefer urban living with good amenities, the town centre is an option. It has a wide variety of shops, restaurants and public services and offers easy access to public transport, including Kettering Railway Station. While some parts of the town centre could use regeneration, it provides convenience for those who need to be close to everything.
5. Hanwood Park
One of the newer developments in Kettering, Hanwood Park is a growing residential area offering modern housing in a well-planned community. It provides families with access to schools, parks and good transport links. This area is ideal for those looking for a newly built home with energy-efficient features and family-friendly amenities.
