204 flats for sale in Waltham Canterbury

Miles & Barr are delighted to offer to the market this well presented two bedroom top floor apartment, situated within the popular George Roche Road development in South Canterbury.The property offers a bright and modern layout, beginning with a welcoming entrance hallway leading through to the stylish open plan lounge, dining area and kitchen. The kitchen is well equipped with a range of integrated appliances including an oven, hob, fridge/freezer and dishwasher, making this a practical space for both everyday living and entertaining.Both bedrooms offer good proportions and benefit from built-in wardrobes, providing useful storage. The principal bedroom further benefits from its own en-suite shower room, while the accommodation is completed by a separate main bathroom.Externally, the property benefits from residents' parking, together with communal visitor parking spaces, providing added convenience for both residents and guests.The location is a particular attraction, with George Roc

Offered to the market in excellent condition and with the benefit of no onward chain, this well presented two double bedroom first floor apartment offers spacious, modern living within a sought after development to the south of Canterbury. Built in 2007, the property benefits from lift access to all floors and would suit a wide range of buyers including first time purchasers, investors or those looking for a conveniently located city base.The apartment has previously been operated successfully as a holiday let over the past four years, demonstrating its strong appeal thanks to its location close to key amenities including Kent and Canterbury Hospital and Chaucer Hospital, as well as easy access into the historic city centre and excellent transport links for commuters.Internally, the property is accessed via a welcoming entrance hallway which provides access to all rooms. The main living space is a bright and spacious open plan lounge, dining and kitchen area, designed to create a socia

Guide Price £200,000 - £250,000 *Appointed in the popular South Canterbury area, this spacious two bedroom first floor apartment offers modern, low maintenance living and will appeal to both first time buyers and investors alike. Whether you are looking to take your first steps onto the property ladder or searching for a strong addition to an investment portfolio, this well presented home is well worth closer inspection.The apartment is accessed via a well maintained communal entrance, opening into a generous internal hallway that immediately gives a sense of space and practicality, with room for coats, storage and furniture. The layout flows well, providing easy access to all principal rooms.The main bedroom is a large and comfortable double, benefiting from its own en suite shower room, creating a private and convenient retreat. A further double bedroom offers excellent flexibility and would suit use as a guest room, home office or second bedroom. Both rooms are well proportioned and

A beautifully presented third floor penthouse apartment in an enviable location, close to the thriving city centre and on a bus route. The lift takes you directly into your lounge and opens into a wonderful light space. With 2 allocated parking spaces, a private balcony and two generous bedrooms this home offers more than most.Room sizes: Lounge/Diner: (L-shaped) 15'9 x 15'3 (4.80m x 4.65m) plus 8'2 x 9'2 (2.49m x 2.80m) Kitchen: 21'3 x 6'7 (6.48m x 2.01m) Balcony Shed: 11'3 x 3'9 (3.43m x 1.14m) Bedroom 1: 15'10 x 11'10 (4.83m x 3.61m) Dressing Room: 6'8 x 5'11 (2.03m x 1.80m) Bedroom 2: 12'7 x 12'6 (3.84m x 3.81m) Bathroom: 9'9 x 8'11 (2.97m x 2.72m) Shower Room: 7'9 x 6'6 (2.36m x 1.98m) Store Cupboard: 6'0 x 4'4 (1.83m x 1.32m) Communal Garden Allocated Parking Space x 2 The information provided about this property does not constitute or form part of an offer or contract, nor may it be regarded as representations. All interested parties must verify accuracy and your solicitor must

Guide Price £50,000 - £60,000 Set in a highly favoured top floor corner position, this immaculately refurbished one bedroom retirement apartment offers a rare combination of style, convenience, privacy, and outlook within easy walking distance of Canterbury’s historic centre. The apartment has been thoughtfully modernised by the current owner to a high standard, featuring a sleek, contemporary kitchen (Neff appliances) and a smart, well-appointed shower room. The overall presentation is stylish and inviting, creating a home that is ready to move into with no work required. A further advantage is the extended lease. On the top floor, the apartment benefits from no overhead footsteps and being close to the lift and stairs. Its corner setting brings double-aspect natural light into the sitting room throughout the day. The elevated position also provides charming and uplifting views of the River Stour (with its varied bird life), Westgate Tower and Canterbury Cathedral. The development its

SECURING THIS PROPERTY WITH A LIFETIME LEASEOVER 60s can secure this property with a HOME FOR LIFE from HOMEWISEThrough the Home for Life Plan from Homewise, those AGED 60 or over can purchase a Lifetime Lease and a share of the property value to safeguard for the future. The cost to purchase the Lifetime Lease is always less than the full market value. OVER 60s customers typically save between from 20% to 50%*.Home for Life Plan guide price for OVERS 60s: The Lifetime Lease price for this property is £198,500 based on an average saving of 33%.Market Value Price: £300,000The price you pay will vary according to your age, personal circumstances and requirements and will be adjusted to include any percentage of the property you wish to safeguard. The plan allows customers to purchase a share of the property value (UP TO 50%) to safeguard for the future.For an indication of what you could save, please use our CALCULATOR on the HOMEWISE website.Please CALL for more information or a PERSONA

Positioned in one of the very best spots within Freeman House, this beautifully presented penthouse apartment offers spacious, light-filled accommodation designed for comfortable and secure later living, with the added bonus of one of the finest outlooks in the development across Canterbury Cricket Ground.At the heart of the apartment is the impressive open-plan kitchen, dining and living space, a generous room that feels both sociable and relaxing, whether you are entertaining friends or simply enjoying a quieter day at home. The kitchen is well fitted with integrated Neff appliances including an oven, microwave and fridge freezer, along with quality units and worktops. The living space is bright and welcoming, with access out to one of the private balconies, making the most of this wonderful penthouse setting.The principal bedroom is a particularly strong feature of the apartment, offering excellent space along with a dressing room, and further fitted wardrobe storage. Easy access to

What You’ll Love-Ground floor living – ideal for easy access and convenience-Investment opportunity - Freehold ! -Spacious lounge with plenty of natural light-Two well-proportioned bedrooms-Huge potential to modernise and add value-Garage + Driveway-Quiet cul-de-sac setting offering peace and privacy-Located in the highly desirable village of Bridge-Easy access into Canterbury with great transport links-Surrounded by countryside walks, pubs and local amenitiesSet within a quiet cul-de-sac in the ever-popular village of Bridge, just outside Canterbury, this is a fantastic opportunity to secure a spacious two-bedroom ground floor flat with huge potential.The property offers generous proportions throughout, giving you a great foundation to really make it your own. The lounge is a bright and comfortable space overlooking the front, while the kitchen is practical and ready for a modern touch. Both bedrooms are well-sized, and the bathroom offers clear scope for updating — perfect for anyone

A light & airy two bedroom duplex apartment with secure underground parking, an outdoor roof terrace and well presented accommodation throughout. A discreet entrance door on Whitefriars Square between Goldsmiths and the Eat café leads to the communal entrance with a lift and stairs leading to the top floor and opening out on to Langton Gardens. The apartments are high above the hustle and bustle of the City centre below and are an oasis of calm. The front door opens to the spacious entrance hall and leads through to the large sitting room/dining room which is flooded with natural light and has a Juliette balcony overlooking Whitefriars Square. The kitchen is fitted with a range of wall and base units, spaces for appliances and a breakfast table and door lead out to the outside deck. A downstairs cloakroom/utility room completes the ground floor accommodation. Outside, the apartment has a decked outdoor seating area and secure underground parking space. Upstairs, the landing leads to tw

A unique and deceptively spacious second floor split level duplex apartment located within the city walls. The stunning period property is being sold with no onward chain and truly needs to be seen to be appreciated. The perfect property to add to your investment portfolio this home offers more than most.Room sizes:Entrance HallwayLounge: 11'7 x 10'9 (3.53m x 3.28m)Kitchen/Diner: 18'2 x 11'6 (5.54m x 3.51m)CloakroomBedroom 1: 13'11 x 13'6 (4.24m x 4.12m)En Suite Bathroom: 11'5 x 7'3 (3.48m x 2.21m)Walk In Wardrobe: (L-shaped) 9'6 x 3'9 (2.90m x 1.14m) plus 6'2 x 3'4 (1.88m x 1.02m)LandingBathroom: 10'6 x 8'4 (3.20m x 2.54m)Bedroom 2: 14'2 x 13'9 (4.32m x 4.19m)Courtyard The information provided about this property does not constitute or form part of an offer or contract, nor may it be regarded as representations. All interested parties must verify accuracy and your solicitor must verify tenure/lease information, fixtures & fittings and, where the property has been extended/converted, p

SECURING THIS PROPERTY WITH A LIFETIME LEASEOVER 60s can secure this property with a HOME FOR LIFE from HOMEWISEThrough the Home for Life Plan from Homewise, those AGED 60 or over can purchase a Lifetime Lease and a share of the property value to safeguard for the future. The cost to purchase the Lifetime Lease is always less than the full market value. OVER 60s customers typically save between from 20% to 50%*.Home for Life Plan guide price for OVERS 60s: The Lifetime Lease price for this property is £231,500 based on an average saving of 33%.Market Value Price: £350,000The price you pay will vary according to your age, personal circumstances and requirements and will be adjusted to include any percentage of the property you wish to safeguard. The plan allows customers to purchase a share of the property value (UP TO 50%) to safeguard for the future.For an indication of what you could save, please use our CALCULATOR on the HOMEWISE website.Please CALL for more information or a PERSONA

Guide Price £250,000 - £280,000 * Situated within the prestigious McCarthy Stone Eastry Place development on New Dover Road, this immaculate second-floor apartment is one of the largest one-bedroom layouts within the complex, offering an exceptional level of space, comfort and independence for over-70s living. Conveniently positioned directly opposite the two lifts, the apartment enjoys easy and practical access, making day-to-day living effortless! Beautifully presented throughout, the apartment enjoys a particularly generous living area with ample room for both lounge and dining furniture, creating a versatile space ideal for relaxing, entertaining guests or enjoying everyday life in comfort. The double-aspect design floods the room with natural light, enhancing the bright and airy feel, while the elevated second-floor position provides a peaceful setting with the added benefit of no apartment above. The well-planned accommodation continues with a spacious double bedroom, modern fitt

GUIDE PRICE £190,000 - £200,000*OFFERED CHAIN FREE Located in Copperfield Court, this well-presented two-bedroom purpose-built apartment is ideally situated just a short walk from the city centre and benefits from excellent transport links to London, this property also has parking which is highly sought in this location.The property offers spacious and practical accommodation throughout, making it an ideal purchase for professionals, first-time buyers or investors looking to add to their portfolio.The apartment comprises a generous entrance hall with built-in storage, leading to two double bedrooms, including a principal bedroom with the added benefit of an en suite shower room. There is also a modern family bathroom and a spacious open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, offering a bright and versatile space ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Copperfield Court is situated in a prime location, close to the City Centre, a wide range of local amenities and direct transpor

Guide Price £200,000 - £220,000*A Light And Airy Two Bedroom Apartment In A Convenient Homersham LocationA well presented and light two bedroom top floor apartment, offering spacious and practical accommodation throughout and benefiting from allocated parking to the rear.The property is approached via an L-shaped entrance hallway, providing access to all of the main rooms and creating a good sense of separation between the living and bedroom accommodation.The main living space is a generous lounge/diner, offering plenty of room for both comfortable seating and a dining table. The room is bright and airy, creating a welcoming space for relaxing or entertaining. There is also a separate kitchen, providing a dedicated area for cooking and keeping the main living space uncluttered.There are two good sized double bedrooms, making the property particularly versatile for couples, sharers or those looking for a second bedroom for guests or home working. The principal bedroom benefits from its

A fantastic second floor apartment within a stones throw of the thriving city centre and with views over the cathedral. With large windows and a neutral decoration throughout this home needs to be seen to be appreciated. This apartment also comes with the added benefit of outside space and a large store shed.Room sizes: Entrance Hallway Lounge: 21'5 x 13'7 (6.53m x 4.14m) Kitchen: 8'6 x 7'9 (2.59m x 2.36m) Bathroom: 7'9 x 5'0 (2.36m x 1.53m) Bedroom 1: 11'7 x 9'8 (3.53m x 2.95m) En Suite: 8'2 x 4'2 (2.49m x 1.27m) Bedroom 2: 11'11 x 8'5 (3.63m x 2.57m) Storage Shed Bike Store The information provided about this property does not constitute or form part of an offer or contract, nor may it be regarded as representations. All interested parties must verify accuracy and your solicitor must verify tenure/lease information, fixtures & fittings and, where the property has been extended/converted, planning/building regulation consents. All dimensions are approximate and quoted for guidance onl

A fantastic second floor apartment within a stones throw of the thriving city centre and with views over the cathedral. With large windows and a neutral decoration throughout this home needs to be seen to be appreciated. This apartment also comes with the added benefit of outside space and a large store shed.Room sizes:Entrance HallwayLounge: 21'5 x 13'7 (6.53m x 4.14m)Kitchen: 8'6 x 7'9 (2.59m x 2.36m)Bathroom: 7'9 x 5'0 (2.36m x 1.53m)Bedroom 1: 11'7 x 9'8 (3.53m x 2.95m)En Suite: 8'2 x 4'2 (2.49m x 1.27m)Bedroom 2: 11'11 x 8'5 (3.63m x 2.57m)Storage ShedBike Store The information provided about this property does not constitute or form part of an offer or contract, nor may it be regarded as representations. All interested parties must verify accuracy and your solicitor must verify tenure/lease information, fixtures & fittings and, where the property has been extended/converted, planning/building regulation consents. All dimensions are approximate and quoted for guidance only as are

SECURING THIS PROPERTY WITH A LIFETIME LEASEOVER 60s can secure this property with a HOME FOR LIFE from HOMEWISEThrough the Home for Life Plan from Homewise, those AGED 60 or over can purchase a Lifetime Lease and a share of the property value to safeguard for the future. The cost to purchase the Lifetime Lease is always less than the full market value. OVER 60s customers typically save between from 20% to 50%*.Home for Life Plan guide price for OVERS 60s: The Lifetime Lease price for this property is £215,000 based on an average saving of 33%.Market Value Price: £325,000The price you pay will vary according to your age, personal circumstances and requirements and will be adjusted to include any percentage of the property you wish to safeguard. The plan allows customers to purchase a share of the property value (UP TO 50%) to safeguard for the future.For an indication of what you could save, please use our CALCULATOR on the HOMEWISE website.Please CALL for more information or a PERSONA

WHAT YOU’LL LOVE• Renovation Project With Strong Potential• Investment opportunity• The lease is currently being extended to the maximum possible term.• Separate Living Room And Kitchen Layout• Two Well Proportioned Bedrooms• Garage + Driveway• Quiet cul-de-sac setting offering peace and privacy• Being Close To Canterbury Without The Noise• Located in the highly desirable village of Bridge• Easy access into Canterbury with great transport linksInside, the layout is already well balanced. A separate living room and kitchen give a structure that many buyers prefer, allowing each space to function properly rather than blending everything into one. With the right approach, the living room has the potential to become a calm, comfortable space to unwind, while the kitchen could be reworked into something more modern and practical for everyday use.The two bedrooms are positioned to offer flexibility. The main bedroom has the proportions to become a more settled, restful space, while the secon

SECURING THIS PROPERTY WITH A LIFETIME LEASEOVER 60s can secure this property with a HOME FOR LIFE from HOMEWISEThrough the Home for Life Plan from Homewise, those AGED 60 or over can purchase a Lifetime Lease and a share of the property value to safeguard for the future. The cost to purchase the Lifetime Lease is always less than the full market value. OVER 60s customers typically save between from 20% to 50%*.Home for Life Plan guide price for OVERS 60s: The Lifetime Lease price for this property is £46,750 based on an average saving of 33%.Market Value Price: £70,000The price you pay will vary according to your age, personal circumstances and requirements and will be adjusted to include any percentage of the property you wish to safeguard. The plan allows customers to purchase a share of the property value (UP TO 50%) to safeguard for the future.For an indication of what you could save, please use our CALCULATOR on the HOMEWISE website.Please CALL for more information or a PERSONALI

INTERIOR The apartment is situated within a purpose-built block offering lift access and a secure buzzer entry system only minutes from the city centre. It features one double bedroom, an open-plan kitchen & living area and a modern bathroom. It also offers plenty of natural light and is neutrally decorated throughout, so you can easily put your own stamp on it! EXTERIOR The property benefits from a small communal garden, along with nearby permit parking. LOCATION Copperfield Court is centrally located on the New Dover Road, just five minutes' walk to the city walls and a further five minutes to the world famous cathedral. There are plenty of amenities right on its doorstep, including a Waitrose supermarket, several pubs & the University of Creative Arts, and Canterbury East station is just a 10-minute walk away for commuters. There is also easy access to the A2, for those driving into London or towards the coast. MORE INFORMATION The property benefits from a 125 year lease, with 105 y

INTERIORThe apartment is situated within a purpose-built block offering lift access and a secure buzzer entry system only minutes from the city centre. It features one double bedroom, an open-plan kitchen & living area and a modern bathroom. It also offers plenty of natural light and is neutrally decorated throughout, so you can easily put your own stamp on it!EXTERIORThe property benefits from a small communal garden, along with nearby permit parking.LOCATIONCopperfield Court is centrally located on the New Dover Road, just five minutes' walk to the city walls and a further five minutes to the world famous cathedral. There are plenty of amenities right on its doorstep, including a Waitrose supermarket, several pubs & the University of Creative Arts, and Canterbury East station is just a 10-minute walk away for commuters. There is also easy access to the A2, for those driving into London or towards the coast.MORE INFORMATIONThe property benefits from a 125 year lease, with 105 years re

Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac just 0.8 miles from Canterbury East train station, this contemporary, chain-free second floor apartment is perfect for first time buyers or investors. The property features a bright living space, access to a lovely communal garden and allocated off-road parking. Enjoy peaceful, modern living while being within walking distance of historical Canterbury.Room sizes: Entrance Hall Bedroom 2: 12'5 x 6'3 (3.79m x 1.91m) Lounge/Kitchen/Diner: 20'1 x 10'7 (6.13m x 3.23m) Bathroom: 10'8 x 5'1 (3.25m x 1.55m) Bedroom 1: 13'6 x 12'4 (4.12m x 3.76m) Allocated Parking Communal Garden The information provided about this property does not constitute or form part of an offer or contract, nor may it be regarded as representations. All interested parties must verify accuracy and your solicitor must verify tenure/lease information, fixtures & fittings and, where the property has been extended/converted, planning/building regulation consents. All dimensions are approximate an

GUIDE PRICE £140,000 - £180,000*Step into luxury with this immaculately presented one-bedroom ground floor flat, designed for modern living and offering a superb investment opportunity or ideal first-time purchase. Boasting a generous 993-year lease and solar panels, this chain-free property is the epitome of convenience and sustainability.Upon entering, you are greeted by an inviting open-plan kitchen, lounge, and dining area, perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing after a long day. The full-length windows flood the space with natural light, enhancing the contemporary feel of the property and providing a seamless connection to the outdoors, while electric blinds ensure privacy when desired.The double bedroom offers a peaceful retreat, complete with an en suite bathroom for added convenience and luxury. Designed with practicality and comfort in mind, this bedroom provides ample space for relaxation, storage, and personalisation.EPC Rating: BMaterial InformationConstruction Type/Ma

CITY LIVING. GREAT PROPORTIONS. AND CANTERBURY ON YOUR DOORSTEP.Guide Price Between £150,000 - £170,000Some properties are about huge gardens and endless rooms.Others are simply about having the right space, in the right place.And this one gets that combination rather nicely.Set within Durovernum Court, Canterbury, CT1 3DA, this ground floor one-bedroom apartment offers approximately 460 sq ft of private internal accommodation and represents a fantastic opportunity for a first-time buyer, investor, or anyone looking for their own base in one of Kent's most historic cities.Step inside. The apartment has a straightforward, well-proportioned layout that makes good use of the space available.The living room measures approximately 14'9 x 10'4 and provides a genuinely comfortable main living area, with plenty of room to create separate spaces for relaxing and dining.Alongside is the separate kitchen, measuring approximately 8'11 x 6'4, keeping the cooking space nicely tucked away from the ma

Two-Bedroom First-Floor Maisonette with Large Private GardenA well maintained two-bedroom first-floor maisonette, benefiting from its own private entrance and a large private rear garden.Situated on a highly sought-after road, the property is just a short stroll from Canterbury city centre and within easy walking distance of local bus stops, shops and other amenities.Upon entering through the private entrance, a flight of stairs leads to the first-floor entrance hall. The accommodation comprises two spacious double bedrooms, a generous sitting room with a large window providing plenty of natural light and pleasant views over the surrounding area, a well-equipped kitchen and a spacious bathroom with shower.The property is presented in great condition throughout, while still offering scope for modernisation and the opportunity for a new owner to add their own personal style.To the rear, the property benefits from a substantial private garden, providing an excellent outdoor space and a pa

Guide Price £300,000 - £325,000*Located on New Dover Road in the historic city of Canterbury, this beautiful first floor flat offers a delightful blend of modern comfort and classic charm. Spanning an impressive 944 square feet, the property features three well-proportioned bedrooms, including a magnificent main bedroom complete with an en-suite shower room, ensuring a private retreat for its occupants.The flat boasts a spacious reception room that invites an abundance of natural light through the original sash windows, highlighting the high ceilings and creating an airy atmosphere. The thoughtful updates made by the current owner enhance the property’s appeal, making it a truly inviting space to call home.Convenience is at your doorstep, as this residence is within walking distance of the vibrant city centre, the local cricket ground, and Christchurch University. Additionally, the property includes an allocated parking bay at the front, providing ease of access for residents and guest

A beautifully presented two double bedroom split level, first floor apartment with access to a stunning roof top garden with views of Canterbury Cathedral. The apartment has high ceilings and large windows allowing abundant amounts of natural light to fill all the rooms. On entry to the apartment the generous hallway leads through to the open plan fitted kitchen and reception room. Stunning leaded bay windows offer views overlooking the High Street. On the second floor there are two double bedrooms, one with a bay window to front and built-in wardrobes and modern fitted en-suite bathroom. The second bedroom has built-in wardrobes and overlooks the roof terrace. There is also a Shower room. Mercery Court is in the heart of Canterbury's characterful city centre and is situated between the Cathedral and the High Street with easy access to Canterbury Christchurch and Kent Universities, Canterbury East Railway Station is 0.6 miles away from the property and Canterbury West station has the H

A comfortably proportioned ground floor flat occupying a prime position within the desirable village of Barham, approximately 7 miles from the historic Cathedral City of Canterbury, which offers excellent schooling options and High Speed rail services to London.The bright and spacious accommodation is arranged to provide an entrance hall, living room, kitchen enjoying attractive views over the rear garden, double bedroom, and a well appointed bathroom.Outside, a fenced garden area adjoins the flat and has been used exclusively by the current owners throughout their ownership. We understand that this area forms part of the communal grounds retained by the local authority and is not included within the leasehold title. Within the garden space there is a useful garden shed, providing practical storage for gardening equipment.Location - Situated in The Elham Valley, an area of outstanding natural beauty, Barham lies approximately 7.5 miles to the South East of Canterbury. The village is wi

SECURING THIS PROPERTY WITH A LIFETIME LEASEOVER 60s can secure this property with a HOME FOR LIFE from HOMEWISEThrough the Home for Life Plan from Homewise, those AGED 60 or over can purchase a Lifetime Lease and a share of the property value to safeguard for the future. The cost to purchase the Lifetime Lease is always less than the full market value. OVER 60s customers typically save between from 20% to 50%*.Home for Life Plan guide price for OVERS 60s: The Lifetime Lease price for this property is £159,000 based on an average saving of 33%.Market Value Price: £240,000The price you pay will vary according to your age, personal circumstances and requirements and will be adjusted to include any percentage of the property you wish to safeguard. The plan allows customers to purchase a share of the property value (UP TO 50%) to safeguard for the future.For an indication of what you could save, please use our CALCULATOR on the HOMEWISE website.Please CALL for more information or a PERSONA

A superb ground floor flat found at the rear of this period building overlooking the shared garden. No. 5 is a stylish apartment in a well kept building and has been well kept and has been acheivng a rental of £1050 from the tenant. CHAIN FREE and being sold with all the contents, so perfect for an investor or first time buyerYour own private access leads into the kitchen with tiled flooring and high gloss units, built-in appliances including a Belling Oven and ceramic hob, fitted fridge/freezer and granite worktops.The main living space mixes contemporary and traditional styles, and has a cosy fireplace with log burner. There is one bedroom with a large side window and a modern shower room with a shower cubicle, pedestal basin and wc and laundry cupboard.The flat has gas-fired central heating and sealed unit double glazing.A short walk from the apartment, Canterbury city centre has a bustling atmosphere with streetside cafes, cultural destinations and an excellent high-speed rail link