The regeneration of the harbour, the abundance of creative shops and delicious cafes, and its scenic coastal walks make Folkestone, one of the best places to be this summer. We’re proud to be located right at the heart of it all and we want you to make the most of our up-and-coming town this season!
Folkestone Harbour Arm
Perhaps the most exciting part of Folkestone over the last two years, and it keeps getting better! The newly renovated Harbour Arm is bursting with new creative businesses, as well as local food and drinks outlets that you can enjoy while lazing in a deck chair waiting for the food coma to arrive! Our foodie recommendation is the Big Greek Bus – be sure to try the halloumi wrap when you go, it’s obsessively good. If the wrap didn’t satisfy your hunger (unlikely!) then Massimo’s Ice Cream van next door will, our favourite combination is the plain chocolate and mandarin sorbet. If you’re more into your drinks (ahem), check out the Lighthouse Champagne Bar by sipping some sparkling wine while admiring Folkestone’s coastline and the White Cliffs of Dover.
North Downs Way
The North Downs Way is ideal for explorers, hikers and those who love the countryside. Starting on the outskirts of Folkestone and heading towards Capel-le-Ferne, we recommend walking over the white cliffs and towards Dover – on a really bright day you’ll be able to spot France on the horizon. If you’re looking to escape the midsummer busy beaches, pop down to The Warren on your walk (make sure the tide is out) and enjoy the beautiful isolated sandy beaches. Careful though as one is a nudist beach (that was an unanticipated extra to a dog walk one day!).
Creative Quarter
The creative quarter is another brilliant part of Folkestone’s ongoing regeneration, not only is DRIVE located in this little area, there are lots of quirky local shops for one to explore. Nestled in the old high street are a range of independent cafes, boutiques, galleries and gift shops. Our favourites are Steep Street Coffee Shop, where the walls are covered with books and the cake slices are generous. Shane Record’s beautiful paintings of Folkestone and the local area are a must-visit, as well as, the Great British Shop, which is a fantastic place to pick up presents created by local designers.
The Folkestone Air Show
You’ll never see Folkestone’s beaches as busy as you will when the Red Arrows turn up. I once made the mistake of taking a leisurely bike ride along the coast only to spend most of my time pushing through 100s and 100s of people with their heads in the clouds (literally). On July 22 2018, the Red Arrows will be making their popular return for a spectacular two-day air show. The aerobatic team will be showing off the speed, agility and precision of the Royal Air Force with an array of union colours to spark that bit of patriotism inside you. It’s certainly worth watching, we recommend turning up early as parking can be a nightmare.
Leas Coastal Park
One for the kids! The lower leas coastal park offers the perfect place for idyllic summer picnics complete with sea views and BBQ stands. The park is located snug between the ocean and cliff with easy access to both the beach and the leas that overlooks it all. The pathways are dotted with various plants and wildflowers, and a small amphitheatre is located at the bottom of the zig-zag path where performances and events are held throughout the summer. The kids can burn energy at the adventure playground; a huge wooden play park equipped with giant slides, towers, net tunnels, pirate ships, aerial slides and more, it’s exhausting just watching them play.
