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.