Chandos Guest House

Attractions in the Folkestone Area

The classic seaside town of Folkestone features something for everyone. For a peaceful time take a stroll along the Leas Promenade and enjoy the flowers, the outdoor summer bandstand concerts, and the breathtaking sea views.

Down in the Harbour area you can stroll among the seafood markets in the Stade, while not far away up the cobbled Old High Street you can spend countless hours in Folkestone's shopping district. Every Thursday in Sandgate Road an open market offers all manner of wares from food to clothing and household, and the last Thursday of each month features many French vendors.

If you enjoy art, visit the Metropole Arts Centre on the Leas or the Georges House Gallery on the Old High Street. If you're a history buff don't miss the Martello Tower No. 3 on the East Cliff. One of many along the Kent coast, these plinth-like structures were designed in the late 1700s as defences against the threat of invasion by Napoleon.

From nearby Dover you can take the SeaCat to the Continent, to either Calais or Ostende; this makes an enjoyable day trip. Or take your car to Calais through the Eurotunnel; services operate directly from Folkestone. For more information on Eurotunnel phone 09990 353535 or see their website, click here

If you prefer to explore the area around Folkestone there are many beautiful East Kent villages. Hythe, situated on the eastern edge of the Romney Marsh, was one of the original Cinque Ports, and the oldest building in the village is believed to date back to the 1100s. You could easily spend an afternoon strolling along the Royal Military Canal and through the public gardens and browsing the quaint High Street bustling with shops and pubs. Or take a ride on the Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, a charming one-third-scale steam train which travels 14 scenic miles between Hythe and Dungeness. For schedules and information see their website, click here.

If you're travelling beyond Hythe be sure to visit Lympne Castle, not to mention the nearby Port Lympne Wild Animal Park. Beyond that are the fascinating roads and villages of the Romney Marsh, a mysterious and beautiful area once famous as a refuge for smugglers. This entire area was at one time completely under the sea, making a natural harbour for ships from early Roman times. Now the Marsh is famous for its rich soil and turf, its pastures full of grazing Romney sheep, and the wide variety of Marshland birds who call it their home. You could spend days wandering from village to village exploring the historic churches and pubs or simply enjoying the scenery.

The Folkestone War Memorial, which is placed stratigicaly at the top of a road called rememberence hill, has special meanings for many because their family members are listed on the memorial having given their lives in the 2nd world war, and it is also the gathering place every year on rememberence sunday where wreaths are laid at the memorial. It truly is nice to see that they are not forgotten.

If you need more information on the activities and attractions in the Folkestone area, phone the Tourist Information Centre on 01303 258594.

Folkestone Harbour

Folkestone Beach

Dover Castle

Old Leas Lift Folkestone

The White Cliffs

The Battle Of Britain Museum

Tel: +44 (0) 1303 851202

Fax: +44 (0) 1303 270723

The Butterfly Centre
Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Golf
Horse Riding
Scuba Diving
Wind Surfing
Roman Painted House

...and much more.