The Kentk seaside resort of Folkestone overlooks the English Channel and lies just seven miles west of Dover. Still one of England's busiest ports, its development as a major vacation destination began in the mid-19th century with the construction of the London Railway, so the town's distinctive architecture dates mainly from the Victorian era. Tourist attractions and things to do in Folkestone are plentiful and include spending time in amusement galleries and waterfront pavilions, taking a refreshing stroll along the wide promenade or dining in a restaurant or cafe in the town's creative quarter. And be sure to take a stroll through the well-kept parkland that stretches along the waterfront, particularly the popular East Cliff and Warren Country Park with excellent views of France in clear weather.

1. Folkestone Town Center and Creative Quarter

Folkestone Town Center is a bustling shopping district located in the heart of the coastal town of Folkestone, in Kent, England. The town center features a range of shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The town center also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the Folkestone Triennial art festival.

The Creative Quarter is a vibrant arts and cultural hub located in the Old Town area of Folkestone, just a short walk from the town center. The Creative Quarter is home to a variety of artists, makers, and creative businesses, including galleries, studios, and workshops. Visitors to the Creative Quarter can browse the shops and galleries, take part in workshops and classes, and enjoy a variety of cultural events, including exhibitions, concerts, and performances. The Creative Quarter is also home to the Folkestone Harbour Arm, a popular destination for food and drink, with stunning views over the English Channel.

2. Channel Tunnel

The Channel Tunnel, also known as the "Chunnel," is a 31-mile-long (50 km) underwater tunnel that connects the southeast coast of England (specifically, Folkestone) with northern France (specifically, Coquelles near Calais). It was constructed beneath the English Channel, which is the body of water that separates England and France.

Construction on the Channel Tunnel began in 1988, and it was officially opened in 1994. The tunnel consists of three interconnected tunnels: two for rail traffic and one for maintenance and emergency use. High-speed Eurostar passenger trains and shuttle trains carrying vehicles and their passengers travel through the tunnel, which takes about 35 minutes.

The Channel Tunnel is considered a remarkable engineering feat, and it has had a significant impact on travel and trade between the United Kingdom and continental Europe. It has also contributed to the development of the European Union's single market by facilitating the free movement of people, goods, and services across borders.

3. Samphire Hoe

Samphire Hoe is a nature reserve located in southeast England, between the towns of Dover and Folkestone in Kent. It was created from the chalk marl cliffs that were excavated during the construction of the Channel Tunnel and opened to the public in 1997.

The nature reserve covers an area of about 30 hectares and features a range of habitats, including grassland, scrub, shingle beach, and intertidal areas. It is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including several rare and endangered species, such as the early spider orchid and the small blue butterfly.

Visitors to Samphire Hoe can enjoy a range of activities, including walking, cycling, bird watching, fishing, and rock pooling. There is also a visitors' center where visitors can learn about the history of the site and its ecology, as well as a cafe and toilet facilities.

4. National monument to the few


The National Monument to the Few, also known as the Battle of Britain Memorial, is a memorial located on the southeast coast of England, in the county of Kent. It is situated on the site of the former Royal Air Force (RAF) station at Capel-le-Ferne, near the town of Folkestone.

The monument is dedicated to the memory of the pilots and aircrew who fought in the Battle of Britain, a major air campaign fought during World War II in 1940, in which the Royal Air Force defended the United Kingdom against large-scale attacks by the German Luftwaffe.

The monument consists of several elements, including a statue of a pilot in full flying gear, a replica of a Hurricane fighter plane, and a wall of names listing the 2,936 pilots and aircrew who took part in the Battle of Britain. The site also includes an interactive visitor center, which provides information about the battle and the role played by the RAF in defending the UK.

The monument was unveiled in 1993 by Queen Elizabeth II and has become a popular destination for visitors, especially those interested in aviation history and World War II. It serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the pilots and aircrew who fought in the Battle of Britain, and the important role they played in protecting the freedom of the United Kingdom.


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5. Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway

The Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway (RH&DR) is a narrow-gauge steam railway that runs for 13.5 miles (21.7 km) between the towns of Hythe and Dungeness on the south coast of England. It was built in the 1920s by millionaire racing driver Captain J.E.P. Howey and his associates, and opened to the public in 1927.

The railway uses one-third scale locomotives, which were designed and built specifically for the RH&DR. The line passes through some of the most picturesque scenery in the south of England, including the Romney Marsh, which is known for its unique landscape and wildlife.

The RH&DR has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. The railway operates daily from late March to October, and on weekends and holidays during the winter months. In addition to regular passenger trains, the RH&DR also offers special events throughout the year, such as Santa Specials and Thomas the Tank Engine days.

The RH&DR is owned and operated by a non-profit organization, the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway Preservation Society, which was formed in 1972 to preserve and operate the railway. The society relies on the support of its members and volunteers to keep the railway running and to maintain its historic locomotives and rolling stock.

6. Lower Leas Coastal Park

Lower Leas Coastal Park is a large public park located in Folkestone, Kent, England. It stretches along the coastline for about a mile and offers spectacular views of the English Channel.

The park was opened in 2000 and was designed to provide a mix of natural and man-made attractions. It features a wide range of facilities, including a playground, a water play area, a large amphitheatre, a cafe, and several picnic areas.

One of the main attractions of the park is its unique zig-zag path, which offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding cliffs. The park is also home to several artworks, including the popular Mermaid statue.

The park is open to the public year-round and is a popular destination for families, walkers, and cyclists. It is also home to several events and festivals throughout the year, including the Folkestone Coastal 10K race, outdoor theatre performances, and live music concerts.

7. Sandgate

Sandgate is a coastal suburb located in the Moreton Bay Region of Queensland, Australia. It is situated approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) northeast of the Brisbane central business district and is considered a popular seaside destination for tourists and residents alike.

Sandgate is known for its scenic beauty, with its long stretch of sandy beaches and picturesque waterfront promenade. The suburb has a rich history, with many of its heritage-listed buildings still standing today. Some popular landmarks in Sandgate include the Sandgate Town Hall, the Sandgate War Memorial, and the Einbunpin Lagoon.

The suburb is also home to a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a variety of dining and shopping experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a range of activities in Sandgate, such as fishing, boating, cycling, and swimming.

Sandgate is well-connected to the surrounding areas, with regular train services operating to and from Brisbane. The suburb also has a number of bus routes running through it, making it easy to travel to other parts of the Moreton Bay Region.

8. Museo Kent Battle of Britain

The Kent Battle of Britain Museum is a museum located in Hawkinge, Kent, England, dedicated to preserving and showcasing artifacts and information about the Battle of Britain, one of the most significant air battles in history.

The museum was founded in 1971 and has since grown to become one of the most extensive collections of Battle of Britain-related artifacts in the world. The museum's collection includes aircraft, vehicles, weapons, uniforms, and other memorabilia from both sides of the conflict.

Visitors to the museum can see a variety of exhibits, including displays of aircraft such as the Hawker Hurricane, Supermarine Spitfire, and Messerschmitt Bf 109. The museum also has a comprehensive collection of uniforms worn by RAF pilots and ground crews during the Battle of Britain, as well as a range of other artifacts related to the conflict.

In addition to its static exhibits, the Kent Battle of Britain Museum also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including talks, lectures, and reenactments. The museum is a popular destination for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in learning more about this pivotal moment in British and world history.