Discover Folkestone: A Seaside Gem in England

Folkestone, a charming seaside town in England, offers a delightful coastal experience with its scenic harbor and Victorian architecture. The town blossomed into a holiday hotspot in the 19th century, thanks to the railway connecting it to London.

Visitors can enjoy classic seaside activities, stroll along the promenade and Harbour Arm, or explore the vibrant Creative Quarter. The East Cliff and Warren Country Park provide stunning views of the White Cliffs of Dover and, on clear days, France.

Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do.

1. Explore Folkestone Town Center & Creative Quarter

Folkestone's Creative Quarter, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, is now home to artist studios, boutique shops, and galleries. Nearby, the town center offers shopping, dining, and attractions like the Folkestone Museum and Visitors Center.

Address: Old High Street, Folkestone, Kent

Official site: www.creativequarterfolkestone.org.uk

2. Folkestone Harbour & Harbour Arm

The historic Harbour Arm, once a train station, now hosts concerts and offers stunning views from its lighthouse-turned-café. Don't miss Antony Gormley's statue "Another Time" at low tide.

Address: Harbour Approach Road, Folkestone, Kent

Official site: https://folkestoneharbourarm.co.uk

3. Take a Ride through the Channel Tunnel

The Eurotunnel, an engineering marvel, connects Britain to the continent. Nearby, the Folkestone White Horse is a striking hillside artwork.

Address: Ashford Road, Folkestone, Kent

Official site: www.eurotunnel.com

4. The Folkestone Museum

The museum showcases Folkestone's history, from fossils to maritime artifacts and wartime exhibits.

Address: 1-2 Guildhall Street, Folkestone, Kent

Official site: https://folkestonemuseum.co.uk

5. Visit the Church of St. Mary and St. Eanswythe

This historic church houses relics of St. Eanswythe and features a stained-glass window of William Harvey.

Address: Church Street, Folkestone, Kent

Official site: https://stmaryandsteanswythe.org

6. Pay Your Respects at the Battle of Britain Memorial

This memorial at Capel-le-Ferne honors the pilots who fought in the Battle of Britain.

Address: New Dover Road, Capel-le-Ferne, Folkestone, Kent

Official site: www.battleofbritainmemorial.org

7. All Aboard the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

Enjoy a ride on the "world's biggest smallest railway," which offers scenic trips across Romney Marsh.

Location: New Romney Station, New Romney, Kent

Official site: www.rhdr.org.uk

8. Leas Cliff and Lower Leas Coastal Park

The Leas features stunning views and gardens, while the Lower Leas Coastal Park offers play areas and conservation zones.

Address: Lower Sandgate Road, Folkestone, Kent

9. Take a Trip to Sandgate

Visit Sandgate for its beaches, shopping, and historical significance.

Address: High Street, Sandgate, Kent

Official site: www.sandgate-kent.org.uk

10. Tour the Kent Battle of Britain Museum

Home to an extensive collection of Battle of Britain artifacts, this museum offers a deep dive into the historic battle.

Address: Aerodrome Road, Hawkinge, Kent

Official site: www.kbobm.org

Where to Stay in Folkestone for Sightseeing

Luxury Hotels: While Folkestone doesn't boast 5-star resorts, it has upscale accommodations like the Best Western Plus Burlington Hotel and The Relish.

Mid-Range Hotels: The Wards Hotel and The View Hotel Folkestone offer comfortable stays with a variety of amenities.

Budget Hotels: The Holiday Inn Express Folkestone Channel Tunnel and The Southcliff Hotel provide affordable options with modern comforts.