Coastal cool, urban vibes and rural adventures await only an hour from London by train in Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh. Enjoyable in all seasons and with Instagrammable moments at every turn, the area is a great choice for a short break. The district offers unique experiences like going on safari at Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve or visiting the UK’s only classified desert at Dungeness, whilst Folkestone offers stunning coastal views and is home to the UK’s largest outdoor public art trail. It’s clear that Folkestone’s charms are widely recognised too with the town crowned top in the South-East in the Sunday Times Best Places to Live and with Time Out naming Folkestone the Best Place to Visit in 2025!

Words by: folkestoneandhythe.co.uk

Art for all 

Who says art belongs in a gallery? Explore Folkestone’s free open-air art collection on your own terms. With contributions from Tracey Emin and Anthony Gormley and pieces ranging from a mermaid sculpture to patterned beach huts there something everyone will enjoy. 2025 will see the return of the Triennial – a free open-air art exhibition which takes place across the town every three years – which will run from July to October.

Find out more about the free artwork trail in Folkestone. 

48 hours on the Romney Marsh

Fancy a weird weekend? The Romney Marsh is definitely unique – affectionately dubbed ‘The Fifth continent’ by locals the area has a rich heritage of playing host to smugglers, pirates and artists as well as Dungeness Britain’ only classified desert (*spoiler – it’s shingle not sand!). Climb Dungeness lighthouse, ride on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway or enjoy the wildlife at the RSPB nature reserve. Treat yourself with fresh seafood or traditional fish and chips along with locally brewed beer to top off your weekend perfectly…

Find out more about how to spend 48 hours on the Romney Marsh

Heritage in Hythe 

Pretty Hythe – and neighbouring Sandgate – have bucketloads of coastal cool, independent shopping and heritage gems. Whether you’re just dropping in or you’ve got a full weekend to play with – a multitude of delights await. Enjoy the peace of the Royal Military Canal, or – if you’re visiting between Easter and September – why not try boating along it? The ossuary in the Crypt at St. Leonard’s Church is a unique experience as is eating seafood right on the beach at the Lazy Shack or splashing out on a meal to remember at the two Michelin starred Hide and Fox.

Find out more about things to do in Hythe

Embrace your nature 

Try out skateboarding or climbing at F51 or give your competitiveness a workout on Folkestone Harbour – with games including shuffleboard, darts and mini golf – there’s always a good reason for a rematch! Or choose to walk on the wild side at Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve where a slice of safari lies nestled in the Kent countryside. And once you’ve worked up an appetite you’ll have tons of options to choose from – whether you fancy street food or fine dining Folkestone has you covered.

Find more inspiration for the perfect weekend in Folkestone

Extraordinary Experiences Await You.

Visit folkestoneandhythe.co.uk for trip inspiration and information to plan your perfect break to Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh.