Folkestone: Coast, Art and History

If you’re looking for a hotel in Folkestone, you can explore the destination through a range of interests: the coast, art, local history and routes through the countryside. These themes range from the coastal park between Folkestone and Sandgate to an inclusive circular route with a stated distance. When planning your trip, you can consider whether you’d prefer to spend most of your time outdoors, explore contemporary art or learn more about the development of the seaside resort.

Coast, views and routes

Lower Leas Coastal Park is a linear park between Folkestone and Sandgate, developed for recreation and enjoyment of the coast. As another cycling option, National Cycle Route 2 runs along Lower Sandgate Road.

The Folkestone Downs offer spectacular views over the town. You can walk anywhere on the Downs; take care because of steep, muddy slopes, and watch out for grazing livestock. The Folkestone Circular Walk is an inclusive 3.4-mile (5.5 km) route, tested by Wild With Wheels CIC.

Art, neighbourhood and local history

Folkestone Artworks is the largest urban exhibition of contemporary art in the United Kingdom. It is free and accessible around the clock, 365 days a year; exhibition details may change. Recommended walking routes are available for exploring the exhibition.

The Folkestone Museum tells the story of Folkestone, from its beginnings as a modest coastal community through its heyday as a fashionable seaside resort and beyond. The colourful Creative Quarter is centred on Old High Street, Tontine Street and Mill Bay.

Historic sites and visiting hours

The remains of Folkestone’s Roman villa are preserved underground on a cliff-top at East Cliff, overlooking East Wear Bay. At St Mary and St Eanswythe, the history of Christian worship dates back to the mid-7th century: worship has taken place in or near the church ever since St Eanswythe founded her monastery. The church’s chancel arch arcade dates from the 13th century—a later historical marker than the beginnings of worship.

For visits, the church is usually open on Mondays and Wednesday to Saturday from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, subject to the availability of volunteer church stewards. Check the church’s weekly news before your visit.

Folkestone Leas Lift is a Grade II* listed funicular railway, first opened in 1885. It is currently being restored; check the latest restoration status before visiting.

Harbour walks and street food

Folkestone Harbour Arm is open daily for walks; access conditions may change. If you’d like to take a walk there, check the current access conditions beforehand. The Goods Yard is Folkestone Harbour Arm’s outdoor street food and event space. Vendors and the events programme may change.

Discover more destinations: Marden, Bredgar, Ash, Tonbridge, Minster, Ashford, Swanley, Northfleet.

For the wider travel overview: Kent.