Calling all the sun bathers and catching sea wavers, if you’re in the mood to eat some ‘swell’ seafood, then Kent is the perfect destination to fulfil all your beach holiday needs. No we may not be as hot as Spain but we are definitely not chilly like Maine. Kent is the land of creative coasts, striking seafronts and famous Whitstable oysters, it’s enough to take you away from the city’s cloisters. So come on over to our White Cliffs of Dover and see our list of the top beach breaks in Kent…
Now for the camping enthusiasts among us, I want you to imagine that you’ve just woken up and brewed yourself a warming mug of tea. You open the caravan door (or unzip your tent) and the smell of the salty sea air hits you. With just a two minute walk from the beach you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of the sea and chalky white cliffs while munching on your cornflakes. The excitement doesn’t stop there as the vibrant town of Folkestone is within easy walking distance of the site. Here you can venture through the colourful streets of the old town and see the UK’s latest urban outdoor exhibition of contemporary art.
If you’re a lover of good food and beautiful sea views (let’s be honest who isn’t), then Botany Bay is the place to stay as this hotel is just a minute’s stroll from the sandy beaches of Broadstairs. And, if that’s not enough to rock your boat, the hotel is also the proud owner of the Visit England’s Breakfast Award - now there’s something that’ll get you up in the morning. After washing away the sand between your toes you can enjoy a crisp cold drink in the lounge bar boasting beautiful ocean views, so you’re never too far from the sea.
Sitting along a quirky lane in the heart of historical Sandwich is Paradise House, a period property designed with a contemporary twist. Parties big and small can come and stay at the cosy home which can sleep up to six people with its three king size beds. You can grab a book from the library snug and sit out in the courtyard garden, listening to the birds. If you can tear yourself away from this comfy abode, decorated in local artwork, the town, river and beach are close by for shopping, boating and eating , oh my!
On the coast of Deal you’re in for a glorious meal as The Royal Hotel’s Boathouse bar invites you to take in breath-taking sea views whilst you tuck into tempting dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. If you’re in the mood for some fishy food then the hotel’s Quarterdeck restaurant serves up fresh seafood from the surrounding shores. And, after a day soaking up the sun on Deal’s waterfront you can sit back and relax in the hotel’s luxurious rooms.
You’re in for a real treat here as you can experience a 180 degree sea view from every room in this delightful fisherman’s cottage, located in the seaside town of Sandgate. From every room you can smell the salty sea air, whether you’re reading a book in the window seat or relaxing on the sofa watching a film on the flat screen TV. Be sure to bring your bike and walking shoes for some great coastal adventures as there are plenty of cycle routes around the area.
If you’re looking for a little luxury you can soak up the panoramic sea views of the 4-star Hythe Imperial Hotel where a day at the beach can be followed by a round of golf. And, if the sounds of the sea waves rippling against the shore aren’t soothing enough, you can indulge in an ESPA treatment at the hotel’s spa, which is open seven days a week. During the colder months when the sea is a bit on the cold side you can take advantage of the hotel’s indoor pool, Jacuzzi spa, steam room and (yes there’s more) sauna. Then, after building up an appetite, why not head over to one of the two restaurants or grab a drink from either of the three bars?
Travel by train this summer and skip the hectic traffic, and you may even save a few bob too. With tickets starting from just £15 you can travel from London to 12 destinations across Kent. If you’re planning a family trip then you’re in luck as children aged between five and fifteen travel for just a £1, what a bargain! The offer ends on August 18th so be sure to make the most of this amazing summer deal.
