Living in West Malling
Welcome to Kent
West Malling offers the best of village life with space to breathe. With its historic high street, green spaces and easy connections, it is a place where everyday living feels relaxed, social and reassuring – perfectly suited to enjoying later life at your own pace.
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Amenities on your doorstep
Living at The Willowbury means daily essentials and local favourites are all close by. From cafés and shops to practical services, everything you need is woven into the fabric of the village around Pilch Close and the High Street.
Local amenities
- Co-op Food - 0.5 miles
- Tesco Express, Kings Hill - 1.4 miles
- Waitrose - 1.6 miles
- Costa Coffee - 0.6 mile
- Boots Pharmacy - 1.5 miles
- West Malling Medical Centre - 0.7 miles
Local flavours
West Malling’s High Street is known for its independent spirit and friendly atmosphere. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a relaxed evening out, there’s always somewhere welcoming to go.
Local favourites include The Farm House, a much-loved gastropub serving seasonal dishes, along with a variety of cafés and independent eateries lining the High Street. The village regularly hosts a monthly farmers’ market, bringing local produce and artisan goods right into the heart of the community.
It’s the kind of place where you get to know faces, not just shop fronts.
Parks and Countryside
Green space plays a big part in everyday life here. From gentle strolls to longer countryside walks, West Malling makes it easy to enjoy fresh air and open views.
Close by, Manor Park Country Park offers lakeside paths, meadows and peaceful picnic spots, while West Malling Village Green provides a calm place to pause in the centre of town. A little further out, Leybourne Lakes Country Park is ideal for walking, cycling and wildlife watching.
For something more historic, nearby walks take in places like Coldrum Long Barrow, St Leonard’s Tower, and the charming Cascade waterfall feature.
Things to see and do
There’s always something to dip into in and around West Malling. From cultural moments to relaxed hobbies, the area suits an active, curious lifestyle.
Enjoy exploring the heritage of Malling Abbey and St Mary’s Church, browse independent boutiques, or visit The Drawing Rooms, a local gallery and creative space. Seasonal events and community gatherings run throughout the year, giving you plenty of reasons to get out and about.
Family days out and nearby adventures
When family come to visit, West Malling makes it easy to plan days out together. Adventure Kidz offers indoor play for younger visitors, while nearby attractions such as The Historic Dockyard Chatham and Hemsley Conservation Centre make for memorable short trips.
For something a little different, Riverhill Himalayan Gardens provide stunning seasonal displays and peaceful walks, perfect for an unhurried afternoon.
Getting Around
West Malling is well connected, whether you’re heading out locally or further afield. The village benefits from strong road links and reliable public transport, making it easy to stay independent without relying on long journeys.
Train services from West Malling station connect you to London and surrounding Kent towns, while local bus routes link nearby villages and amenities. For drivers, access to the A20 and M20 keeps the wider region within comfortable reach.
Make West Malling your home
West Malling is a place that balances independence with connection, and calm with everyday activity. With The Willowbury bringing a secure, supportive retirement village into this welcoming setting, you can enjoy village life while feeling confident about the years ahead.
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