Your Guide To Folkestone: Where to Stay, Eat, Drink & Explore
THE insideGUIDE to Folkestone
Set against sparkling golden sands, Folkestone is a captivating coastal gem that blends a rich historical past with a lively contemporary art scene.
Nestled within a coastal valley between the iconic white chalk cliffs, the maritime town of Folkestone boasts centuries-old history. From being a 13th-century fishing settlement and honoured Cinque Port to wartime stories, the town has continued to expand over the centuries, transforming into the lively seaside town we see today.
While continuing to lean into its nautical heritage, with a vibrant maritime harbour and plenty of historical wonders, the town has transformed into a contemporary hub for local artists, studios and galleries, embracing creativity and bringing together a sense of community spirit.
Folkestone’s art scene draws visitors from near and far; whether they are seeking a muse or just there to explore, the streets are brimming with inspiration. Paired with an abundance of highly rated restaurants that source local produce from across the county, Kentish charm is infused into every corner of this historic fishing town.
With warmer days coming, Folkestone is home to a number of must-see beaches, from Sunny Sands, a family-friendly sandy stretch, to Mermaid Beach, a sheltered shingle beach with pristine waters; the town is a haven for visitors and locals in need of a coastal escape on their next Kent staycation. Words by Emily Sturgeon
Creative Folkestone
“Folkestone has a really distinctive feel – a seaside town that’s quietly become a hub for independent shops, artists and great places to eat. Having opened our business here eight years ago, we’ve seen it change hugely and we’re proud to be part of that. The Old High Street in particular is full of character and still feels like the heart of it all.”
Mark and Charly, owners, Marleys Folkestone
Top Folkestone Picks
Top Eats
Folkestone’s neighbourhood restaurant has a menu that follows the seasons, from weekend brunches to late dinners. Each dish is carefully prepared and honours producers from across the county for a delicious taste and local feel.
Top Heritage
The museum takes you through the fascinating history of Folkestone, from natural history, which formed the beginning of the museum, to contemporary workshops and interactive displays that are suitable for all ages.
Top Art Spot
Known as the town’s cultural heart, the Quarter is an urban village that blends filmmakers, artists, musicians and designers. You can visit bespoke galleries and attend workshops run by skilled makers.
Sumptuous Stays
Shoreline Beachouse, Folkestone
A premium two-bedroom beach house with direct access to the seafront. The interior blends designer linens with sleek curves; paired with a private balcony and enclosed patio terrace, you can enjoy a morning coffee and take in the stretching views across the shoreline.
A boutique seaside stay, Rocksalt hosts four bespoke bedrooms where you can soak up the views of Folkestone Harbour. Your stay includes original antique beds with Egyptian cotton and a complimentary breakfast.
A short distance from the Leas Promenade and perfect for solo travellers and couples, each room is thoughtfully designed, with a range of spaces from standard bedrooms to self-catering apartments. Take a short walk to the Cliffe for a tapas tasting experience.
Top Bars in Town
A classic Kentish pub set within the bustling town centre, The Pullman has a rustic interior and an enticing array of whisky and spirits. Sit down, take in the vibrant streets and tuck into a traditional pub menu with all the trimmings.
Set within a 19th-century lighthouse on Folkestone’s Harbour Arm, you can visit England’s closest Champagne bar to France. With a selection of Champagnes and award-winning English sparkling wines, take in the striking views of Kent’s iconic white cliffs.
Striving to produce the finest craft ales, beers and sodas, Docker Brewer crafts their beers with the highest-quality UK malt, making sure every drink is infused with a rich taste and locally sourced produce for the freshest ingredients.
Coffee Break
A literary coffee shop that has taken inspiration from the famous book cafés of Paris based in the buzzing centre of the Creative Quarter; nestled amongst artist studios, you can enjoy a nourishing menu of homemade cakes and barista coffees.
Enjoy harbour views in this specially curated space in a renovated signal box. With a wide range of coffees, organic teas and speciality drinks, the historic space offers panoramic views with a charming atmosphere.
The Hatch
A popular café and kiosk overlooking the harbour, if you’re looking for a quick bite, quality coffee and scenic views over the marina, The Hatch offers it in abundance. Delve into freshly toasted sandwiches or indulge in a scoop of soft-serve ice cream.
Divine Dining
Radnor Arms
Where small plates are infused with creativity, you can enjoy a low-waste, inclusive menu that changes with the seasons. Choose from a range of fresh dishes to share with friends and experience thoughtful cooking in a relaxed environment – make sure to try an award-winning wine or local beer.
A recently renovated Victorian pub with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is infused with incredible ingredients from across the county, from the Folkestone Trawlers to local vineyards, so you can enjoy a true taste of Kent.
Found on the cobbled high street of the Creative Quarter, experience traditional Spanish tapas dishes that incorporate nourishing ingredients and local produce. This well-loved restaurant and bar is perfect for the summer evenings, offering outdoor dining to soak in the coastal sea air.
Cultural Hotspots
Creative Folkestone
A progressive arts charity with a focus on celebrating creativity in the heart of Folkestone. There are five key projects transforming the town into a space of opportunity and inspiration, from the Creative Quarter – deemed Folkestone’s cultural heart with an abundance of galleries, studios, cafes and social spaces – to Folkestone’s Artworks, which hosts the UK’s largest urban outdoor exhibition of contemporary art.
Known as the cultural hub of Folkestone, Quarterhouse is an award-winning performing arts venue. Hosting regular performances with a number of world-renowned artists in theatre, comedy, music and dance throughout the year. Alongside a dedicated film programme, family-friendly shows and workshops, the space is brimming with community spirit.
Boasting the world’s largest collection of Battle of Britain memorabilia, wartime enthusiasts and avid explorers can embark on a journey through the museum to discover over 700 crashed aircraft, photographs and various artefacts on display, each one embedded with historical importance.
Outdoorsy Spots
Once a salient railway terminal for the Folkestone-Boulogne ferry and departure point for the Western Front, the Harbour Arm plays a pivotal role in Folkestone’s historical past and is now a contemporary cultural attraction for both visitors and locals. You will be sure to see live music and enjoy over 70 independent food, drink and retail vendors.
Lower Leas Coastal Park
A linear park that runs along Folkestone’s and Sandgate’s coastline, with award-winning recreational facilities, including the iconic amphitheatre with regular summer performances, this glorious park attracts a wealth of biodiversity due to its own microclimate, with a number of migratory birds and rare species found within the grounds.
Must-Shop Places
©Mooie Fee | The Folkestone Bookshop
A radical, independent bookshop celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with a variety of new and secondhand books for adults and children. Nestle down into a cosy nook with tea or coffee, and get involved with a regular book club, writing groups and crafting sessions.
Your go-to vintage clothes shop, with a quirky feel and welcoming atmosphere. The store has a wide range of high-quality men’s and women’s vintage clothes alongside footwear and accessories; you will always leave here with something special.
For wellbeing lovers, Folkestone Wholefoods offers a wide range of local goods, from organic breads and fairtrade gifts to plastic-free products. Based in the Creative Quarter, the products aim to meet the needs of any health, dietary and lifestyle choices.
