Things to Do in Folkestone: A Seaside Gem on the Kent Coast

Kentish seaside towns, such as Folkestone and Margate, are experiencing a real revival right now. They are mixing a cool, vibrant, and contemporary vibe with traditional coastal charm, cultural finds, and a buzzy, creative centre. Not to mention ocean views and activities to keep all ages engaged and entertained. This has inspired our choice of the best things to do in Folkestone, which has something for everyone.

Whether you’re heading on a short break or a longer holiday in Folkestone, there’s plenty to do for families, couples, business tourists, or solo travellers. Add to this the stylish, comfortable accommodation and top hotel location in Folkestone provided by the Burlington Hotel, and there are even more reasons to visit this gem in the heart of Kent.

Here, the team at the Burlington Hotel has created their personal list of the best things to do in Folkestone. Enjoy!

VISIT THE HARBOUR ARM

Described as a promenade with a world-class view, the Harbour Arm has been revitalised with a host of unique ways to shop, eat, and be entertained. Enjoy street food from vibrant independent food vendors. Source gifts, handcrafted items, art, and vintage clothes. And find unique mementos from your trip to Folkestone. While away the hours playing miniature golf or catching a movie if the weather isn’t on your side. A calendar of events brings live music, artisan market traders, and an extra dimension to the venue. Plus, don’t miss the jewel in the crown at the end. A Champagne bar masquerading as a lighthouse offering an ideal spot for a sunset sip.

https://folkestoneharbourarm.co.uk/

TAKE IN THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN MEMORIAL

Second on our list of the best things to do in Folkestone is a special and very moving opportunity for many of our guests. Just a ten-minute drive from Folkestone town centre is the Battle of Britain Memorial, which is dedicated to the heroic and selfless deeds of the men and women who helped to win the Battle of Britain,10 July to 31 October 1940.

Poignant tributes are incorporated into this interactive attraction, which re-creates the sights, sounds, and experiences of those involved through immersive technology. It aims to give modern visitors a sense of what they endured, making it a must-visit for both young and old.

At the attraction’s centre is a striking yet moving statue of a seated airman looking out to sea. And perhaps the most stirring of all the installations is The Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall, which HRH Prince Michael of Kent unveiled in July 2005. It lists the names of all aircrew known to have flown during the Battle of Britain in 1940.

Be sure to visit the Cockpit Café too. It serves a range of lovely hot and cold dishes and drinks.

Buses run throughout the day from Folkestone with a bus directly outside the memorial.

https://www.battleofbritainmemorial.org/

RELAX ON ONE OF FOLKESTONE’S BEACHES

You can’t take a trip to the coast without at least one traditional beach day. Sandcastles, paddling, picnics, and even some more daring activities like bodyboarding or riding paddleboards to explore.

Many of the county’s beaches are shingle, but if you’re looking for golden sands, visit Sunny Sands Beach. It is located just a short distance from the harbour with easy access to shops, restaurants, and amenities. The beach offers safe swimming waters, and a lifeguard service is available during peak times. Dogs are not permitted during the summer months but can visit the beach for a dig or a swim from October to April.

Sandgate Beach is another option. While it lacks the golden stretch of Sandy Beach, it is perfect for water sports and swimming. Mermaid Beach is a hidden gem. It’s slightly further out and less touristy, making it feel worlds away from the busy town. It offers a peaceful stretch of shingle shore with sweeping views across the English Channel. The beach gets its name because this unique segment of coastline resembles a mermaid's tail. It’s an ideal spot for secluded walks, breathing in the sea air, and perhaps some rock-pooling.

EXPLORE THE CREATIVE QUARTER

The beating heart of creativity in the city, Folkestone Creative Quarter is a collective of designers, filmmakers, musicians, web developers, and artists housed in around three hundred buildings restored for both commercial and residential use. The aim? To create a hub of innovation and imagination.

Visitors can enjoy watching artists paint in their galleries or attend classes run by masters in art or performance. Discover artisan goods, local artwork, impromptu performances, festivals, and hidden gems at every turn. The Creative Quarter is summarised as a ‘playground for creative and digital people’, so it’s the perfect place to visit and discover something unique.

https://www.creativefolkestone.org.uk/folkestone-creative-quarter/

VISIT THE LOWER LEAS COASTAL PARK

An ideal setting for a family outing, the coastal park has the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and space to get back to nature. Let the kids run wild in the largest free adventure play area in the southeast, find a picnic spot, or wander and wonder at the beautifully landscaped gardens.

During the summer months, you can catch musical and dramatic productions in the stunning amphitheatre, which is located right next to the beach.

The park has been awarded a Green Flag, meaning it has been recognised as one of the best green spaces in the country.

https://explorekent.org/activities/lower-leas-coastal-park/

RELIVE THE REGION’S HISTORY IN FOLKESTONE MUSEUM

Our final opportunity, and one of the best things to do in Folkestone, takes you back in time. Take a trip through the ages of Folkestone in a museum packed with fascinating moments from the town’s history. Enjoy a vast collection of fossils and natural history, which formed the foundation for the original exhibits, and which have since expanded to include the ancient history of the region, maritime, and fashion.

https://www.folkestonemuseum.co.uk/

YOUR HOTEL IN FOLKESTONE - THE BURLINGTON HOTEL

As a destination, Folkestone’s unique blend of culture, creativity, and coastal beauty offers something for everyone. So next time you’re planning a trip to Kent, be sure to add Folkestone to your list. And when choosing your hotel in Folkestone, the Burlington Hotel has much to offer.

Located in the heart of Folkestone, the Burlington Hotel is a timeless Victorian building that blends coastal charm with modern luxury.

Situated in Folkestone’s wonderful West End, the elegant Victorian four-star Kent hotel overlooks the famous Leas Promenade and the English Channel. Ahead of your visit, why not take a scenic stroll along the promenade or explore the Creative Quarter’s range of boutique shops and local galleries?

The Bay Tree Bar & Grill serves modern British food, celebrating the best from the land, sea, and soil. It is a popular meeting spot for guests and locals alike, offering a stylish and contemporary ambiance with a wide range of premium brand spirits, locally sourced beers and wines, and a cocktail menu perfected by our experienced team of mixologists.

CONTACT

If you’re looking for a top hotel in Folkestone for an autumn break and an opportunity to explore the best things to do in Folkestone, we can help. Visit https://www.theburlingtonhotel.com/ for details of the Burlington Hotel and our latest offers.

Telephone: 01303 255301

Email: info@theburlingtonhotel.com