Listen up all, as 2023 is the Year of the Coast! With a coastline over 185 million years old, it’s safe to say that the U.K. has got a few things worth celebrating along its seafronts, and Kent’s own 350-mile stretch of coast is certainly no exception. From sustainable businesses bringing you the freshest produce, to extraordinary experiences you can find nowhere else, there’s truly no place quite like the Kent coastline. Whether you’re coming from near or far, we’re here to guide you through this wonderful corner of the country and let you in on some of the best spots to make the most of your break here. So, where will your next adventure take you - will you throw yourself into the colourful culture of Margate? Or maybe stay the night in your own seaside cottage? What about trying some oysters, freshly caught that same morning? Wherever you may find yourself this year, join us in celebrating the people, places, and experiences of our amazing coast.
Beaches
We just had to start off our celebration of the Year of the Coast by shouting out the best beaches across the county. From shingles to sand, Kent has got it all, and it’s waiting to be enjoyed. Bring on those lazy days of seaside walks, laying on the beach and soaking up the sun, and getting that much needed fresh sea air. Check out our round up of the best spots along the coastline, from the cleanest and loveliest Blue Flag beaches to those that our four-legged friends can enjoy too!
Dreamland
Dreamland is back and better than ever. Spend the day surrounded by live entertainment, thrilling rollercoasters, and amazing food and drink at Margate’s very own seaside amusement park. With a calendar jam packed with events, you can find something just for you at Dreamland, whether you’re into funk, dance, R’n’B, pop, or anything in between. Head down for the weekend and delve into the excitement, going for a spin at the roller disco, treating yourself to seaside foodie favourites, and (most importantly) having fun! Enjoy your visit to the fullest and stay at No. 42 Guesthouse on your trip to Margate, taking relaxation to the max as you sleep, drink, and dine within the walls of this beautiful Victorian seafront hotel.
Dr Forager
While in Margate, get back to nature and learn about the food that’s quite literally right under your nose. During the 2-2.5 hour walk along Margate seafront, Dr Forager (aka Hannah Scott) will provide you with knowledge on all things edible that grow on the coastline. Discover which seaweed you can snack on before diving into a foraged plant preparation workshop, finishing up the session with a lunch made from your picked plants!
Margate Cookery School
For a bit more foodie inspiration, the Margate Cookery School offers fun, approachable, and hands-on lessons year-round. Get a taste of Japanese delicacies, Italian heartiness, fermenting goodness, patisserie richness, and much more. With special guest courses, now’s your time to learn from the best and see the world of food in a whole new light.
Col's Kent Bike Tours
Take your exploration of the coast to a whole new level as you journey on bike through seaside towns, along paths right by the ocean, feeling the sea air fresh against your skin. With Col’s Kent Bike Tours, you can experience the coast like never before, being taken through Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, or Whitstable by your very own expert guide. This is one for all abilities, so whether you’re a bike pro or haven’t been on two wheels since childhood, you’re in for an amazing day out.
Keep up the adventure and stay overnight with a Wild Weekend, full of wild camping and river swimming!
Joss Bay Surf School
Ever wanted to hit the waves, but those Aussie coastlines are just a bit too far away? Fear not! Joss Bay Surf School has been teaching people the art of the ocean for over 40 years, so you’re in good hands when you take to the water here. From old to young, abled, and disabled, there’s room for everyone to learn, so grab your friends and enjoy an unforgettable day on the water.
South Foreland Lighthouse
Dover
We’ve got our eye on Dover as its creative scene grows and grows, pulling together some of the best hidden gems in the county all in one beautiful seaside spot. Of course, a visit to the area is incomplete without a trip to the iconic Dover Castle, with its fantastic exhibitions and immeasurable historical impact. But, further afield, we can’t forget about the splendid seafront with the harbour beach, pier, and marina, or the old town. And don’t forget to pack those cameras, as you head up to the South Foreland Lighthouse and witness stunning views over the ocean. Or, if you fancy getting a bit closer to the big blue, take an exhilarating trip with Dover Sea Safari for a look at the White Cliffs from a whole new angle.
Zetland Arms
Deal
When it comes to idyllic seaside getaways, nothing quite hits the mark like Deal. With its quaint Georgian buildings, colourful streets, and charming seafront, you’ll get that oh so special “on holiday” feeling. Spend days strolling by the sea, browsing the Saturday market, popping for a bite to eat at The Popup Café, one of the many independent cafes, for some amazing coffee and veggie breakfast, before heading to dinner at seafront restaurant Zetland Arms for some ocean views while you dine on sublime locally sourced dishes. Get stuck into the slower pace of life with a relaxing bike ride at Betteshanger Park, journeying through off-road trails and being restored by the wonderful outdoors.
Richborough Roman Fort
Sandwich
Heading over to Sandwich, you’ll be greeted with a mix of old and new as, tucked away within the medieval buildings and olde-worlde charm, are some exciting experiences to get a fresh taste of life by the seaside. After you wander those Instagram-worthy village streets and stroll down what was once a busy port, treat yourself to some vegan-friendly pizza at the laid-back Drill Hall, or grab a drink at cosy Smugglers Café. Climb St Peter’s Tower for incredible views over rooftops and countryside, before heading to soon-to-reopen Richborough Roman Fort, where Roman rule began and ended in Britain. Once you’re done with relaxing views and slow ambles, pick up the pace and hop on board the River Runner at Sandwich Quay for a trip along the River Stour, or don a wetsuit at the Whitemills Wake & Aqua Park where you can experience the thrill of wakeboarding.
Folkestone
Further South down the coast, you’ll find Folkestone in all its creative glory, bursting at the seams with art and community. Head up the Old High Street, where you can spend hours window shopping and treating yourself to a coffee and cake at Steep Street Café. Then, head down to the coast where you’ll find the Harbour Arm, with something for any mood you may find yourself in. Fancy some taste-bud tantalising tacos? Or perusing some pleasing pottery? What about sharing moments over a glass of champagne? All of this and more is waiting for you at the Harbour Arm. Make the most out of your visit and stay the night at the Hythe Imperial Hotel, where a great night’s sleep is waiting for you at the end of your day.
Whitstable
There’s something about Whitstable with its small, winding streets, independent businesses dotted here and there, and amazing local produce that brings people back again and again. Famous for its shingle beaches and oysters (they’ve even got an annual festival to celebrate this tasty treat!), you can get a true experience of the town by taking a walk along the seafront and sampling some freshly caught oysters at the Whitstable Oyster Company. Stop off for a drink at The Old Neptune, sat right on the beach for those perfect seascape views, before spending the night in your very own Fisherman’s Hut! Or take a scenic bike ride back to Canterbury along the infamous Crab and Winkle Way and stay overnight at the University of Kent’s comfortable and easy to reach accommodation.
Herne Bay
The Reculver Towers and Roman Fort, crowning the Herne Bay skyline, are waiting to be explored. Standing on the seafront since the 12th century, you can roam the Towers and discover their history within the local area as one of the first towers built against the Saxon raids. Walk the sandstone cliffs, taking in the magnificence of the view and imagining the evolution of the seascape over the hundreds of years it has been standing. Travel further afield into the vibrant town of Herne Bay, being sure to check out the many shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Upnor Castle
Medway
For some real sea excitement, the Red2Red speed boat trips are here to take you on the ride of a lifetime. Take to the water like never before with the RIB experience, a thrilling ride through the River Medway that’s sure to get your heart pumping. If you’re feeling something a bit more mellow, why not slow down the pace and get to learning about the area with a Medway or Historic Rochester Tour? Once back on land, Medway’s iconic sites like Rochester Cathedral, Historic Dockyard Chatham, and Upnor Castle all await for more exploration.
botany bay (c) suprajen888
Sunsets
There’s nothing quite like a beautiful sunset to give us a moment of peace after a long and busy day. And trust us when we say that there’s no better place to enjoy the setting of the sun than when it’s laying down on the horizon of the great sea, sending bursts of colour through the sky and giving the world a beautiful warm glow. Take a moment to appreciate the sun and your day as you head into the evening and get a great night’s sleep.
Peace Cottage, Keepers Cottages
Stay
As you travel across the county this year, you can be safe with the knowledge that there will always be a home away from home where you and your loved ones can rest your heads. Both Bloom Stays and Keepers Cottages offer a fantastic range of self-catered cottages, sleeping from two to 42, all around the Kent coastline. So, plan your next seaside getaway and find the perfect property for you.
Travel
Getting around Kent has never been easier. With such fantastic transport links with Southeastern, there’s no better way to celebrate the Year of the Coast than by catching a train to your next favourite seaside spot – less stress and less cost (on both your pocket and the planet!). Book online today for great savings and sit back as you’re taken on your next adventure.
Read on and discover how you can celebrate the Year of the Coast 2023.
