Why work in Canterbury?
From hybrid working to well-paid graduate jobs in the industries of tomorrow, this is a place of opportunity where you can work how you want to and further your career.
Kent is consistently recognised in the national and international media as one of the best places to work and live in the UK, with Canterbury a leading choice for creatives and professionals looking for a better quality of life.
It’s no surprise more people are choosing Canterbury than ever before as a place to work.
A place tuned into innovation
This is a place tuned into innovation with industry focused universities, colleges and specialist schools acting as a magnet for some of the UK’s most exciting businesses.
From new green technologies to combat climate change and support the transition to Net Zero to hospitality providers that can meet the demand of a tourism industry that welcomes seven million visitors a year.
A place embracing the moment
This is a place embracing the moment from the growth in our reputation as a leading wine producer to fast broadband and flexible office space to allow creatives and one-time commuters the option to work closer to home if they want.
Linking those opportunities with housing prices lower compared to London and excellent connectivity to the rest of the UK and beyond by road and rail, Canterbury is a growing place of opportunity, and the right location to build your success.
Well Connected
Canterbury is just one hour away by high-speed train from London’s St Pancras International, less than 20 miles from the Port of Dover with excellent motorway connections to the rest of the UK via the M2 and A229 corridor.
Highly Skilled Jobs
Canterbury attracts highly skilled, well-paid jobs in sectors key to the UK’s growth: from medicine, life science and food and drink innovation to net zero transition and advanced manufacturing.
Quality of Life
Canterbury is one of the UK’s most outstanding places to live and work, offering a great quality of life – from festivals and cultural events to some of Kent’s best ‘foodie’ locations, coastal walks and rural escapes.
Cost of living
Canterbury offers good quality housing – from city centre flats and rural retreats to family homes near the coast – costing up to 33% less than in London. The expense of day to day living from dining out to childcare is also lower.
Flexible working
A short walk away from the historic city centre, The Fruitworks offers up to 80 desks in open plan rooms. It’s the kind of flexible co-working space that is transforming Canterbury into Kent’s hybrid working central.
FAQs
Is Canterbury district a good place to work?
Canterbury is one of the most attractive cities to work in the south east of England, a world-class university city steeped in culture and history and with great transport links. London is just one hour away with the Port of Dover less than 20 miles away. Beyond the city, the seaside towns of Whitstable and Herne Bay and Kentish villages in the North Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, add to the attraction of a place with an enviable quality of life.
Is the Canterbury district a good location for hybrid or remote work?
The Canterbury district offers an ideal setting for remote and hybrid working, combining a dynamic business environment with high-quality coworking spaces and excellent connectivity. With easy access to London and the convenience of nearby coworking hubs like Fruitworks and The Workz, employees can enjoy a balanced work-life experience while cutting down on commute time. For those working partially from home, Canterbury’s diverse neighbourhoods and seaside towns provide a tranquil yet inspiring environment, making the district an appealing choice for employers and professionals embracing flexible work arrangements.
- High-Speed Connectivity to London: Canterbury is an hour from London by train, making it ideal for those with hybrid work setups who commute occasionally.
- Access to Quality Workspaces: The district’s many coworking spaces, along with reliable internet infrastructure, make it convenient for remote work.
- Balanced Work-Life Benefits: Living and working in Canterbury offers a better quality of life than the capital, with lower costs and proximity to green spaces and the coast for after-work relaxation.
What coworking and office spaces are available in the Canterbury district?
The Canterbury district offers a range of top-quality coworking facilities ideal for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. Located conveniently close to major transport links, these coworking spaces allow workers to stay connected to London and beyond, while enjoying Canterbury’s vibrant city life. These facilities support both individual focus and team collaboration, making Canterbury an ideal hybrid working location.
- Accessible Coworking Spaces: Canterbury offers several flexible workspaces, such as The Workz, Fruitworks, and The Old Post Office, which provide facilities for remote workers, freelancers, and startups.
- Affordable Office Rentals: The area also has office spaces at lower rates compared to London, allowing businesses to grow without high overhead costs.
- Networking and Community Focus: Many coworking spaces in Canterbury are known for a collaborative atmosphere, with regular events, networking opportunities, and resources that help build connections within the business community.
Is it expensive to relocate to the Canterbury district?
The price of buying or renting in Canterbury district is more affordable than that of bigger cities like London with a choice of locations to suit your lifestyle – from city apartments and townhouses to seafront properties and rural retreats. New build developments are providing more choice than ever – from first time homes to executive living, family homes to retirement properties.
What is the main industry in the Canterbury district?
Professional and technical services, retail and distribution, healthcare, hospitality tourism and leisure are the four main employment sectors. It has a growing number of highly skilled, well-paid jobs in sectors key to the UK economy including life science research, biotechnology, agri-tech, wine production and green energy.
Are there networking opportunities and business support in the Canterbury district ?
The Canterbury district offers vibrant networking opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals at every stage. With organisations like Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and regular events hosted by co-working spaces such as The Workz and Fruitworks, the district fosters a collaborative environment ideal for building connections. Local universities, including the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University, provide excellent partnerships, allowing businesses to connect with fresh talent and research resources. From industry-specific forums to community networking events, Canterbury is a hub for meaningful professional relationships that support growth and innovation.
- Business Networks and Chambers: Canterbury has strong business networks, including the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and local business clubs, offering valuable networking and training resources.
- Support for Startups: Organisations like Locate in Kent and business hubs such as Innovation Centre Medway provide mentoring, funding advice, and incubation for startups and growing businesses.
- Collaboration with Universities: The University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University frequently collaborate with local businesses, offering access to research, internships, and graduate talent.