Coastal Towns to Visit
The Kent coast is perhaps most famous for its iconic white cliffs, but with some fantastic beaches and charming seaside towns, there is a lot to recommend it. Many have been welcoming holidaymakers since the Victorian era, and have plenty of history to discover and attractions to enjoy. Here are five of the best coastal towns that the county has to offer.
Folkestone
Folkestone has undergone a regeneration in recent years, with the Harbour Arm being a key attraction. This former railway track is now home to stalls and cafés, and often hosts live music and film screenings. The town itself has a quaint high street with artistic shops, and there’s a popular adventure playground for kids. A short drive to nearby Hawkinge will take you to the Kent Battle of Britain Museum, which has the world’s largest collection of Battle of Britain memorabilia.
Whitstable
Famous for its annual oyster festival, Whitstable is a wonderful place to while away the day. Its pebbly beach is the ideal place to find the perfect skimming stones and even go for a paddle if the sun is shining. You can also wander through Harbour Market, browsing the craft stalls and sampling the food. There’s even a castle to explore, built for the Pearson family at the turn of the 19th century. And of course, make sure you try an oyster if they’re in season!
Hythe
Along the coast from Dover is Hythe, which offers stunning views of the English Channel and a Victorian promenade that’s ideal for a stroll with the kids. The pebbly beach is a great spot to fly a kite or simply sit with some fish and chips, or the more adventurous can try watersports such as kayaking. The town itself has a mixture of contemporary shops and vintage boutiques, as well as plenty of pubs and restaurants, while the Napoleonic-era Royal Military Canal is perfect for walking and cycling.
Dymchurch
If you’re looking for traditional seaside pursuits, Dymchurch is a great place to be. It’s one of the lesser known seaside towns in Kent, being towards the southwestern end of the county, but has a range of amusements, from arcades and a small amusement park to shops selling beach toys and candy floss. If you want to try something a little different, hop onto a locomotive on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway and see the coast from a carriage.
Deal
If you’re looking for a quieter escape, Deal is one of Kent’s prettiest coastal towns. Its quaint streets are lined with fisherman’s cottages and Georgian townhouses, and it has some delightful restaurants overlooking the pebbly beach. Deal Castle is fascinating for its history too. Built by Henry VIII, it has underground tunnels to explore, and on clear days, offers spectacular views all the way to the French coast.
Costal Holiday Apartments
If you’re searching for holiday homes in Kent, don’t miss the Beach Escapes. These luxury holiday apartments have direct access to the beach at Hythe and put you within a stone’s throw of many of the attractions on the Kent coast. Book direct today for the best rates.
