Restaurant
Annapurna Nepalese RestaurantAnnapurna Nepalese Restaurant serves authentic cuisine on Cheriton Place in Folkestone.
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Folkestone offers a mix of coastal energy and relaxed living. It’s a place where the sea is central, with a creative vibe. You’ll find a town appealing to those seeking a slower pace, drawn by the water and walks along the Leas, a scenic coastal promenade with flowerbeds and views. It suits visitors who appreciate art and culture, with the recurring Folkestone Triennial shaping the town’s character. This event, held every three years, reimagines public spaces with contemporary art.
For a traditional seaside experience, Sandgate offers a charming atmosphere with independent shops and a lovely promenade. The town centre is being renewed, with Guildhall Street becoming a hub for independent businesses and performance spaces. Old High Street, a steep cobbled lane, also contributes to this atmosphere. Here, you can spend an afternoon wandering between cafes and unique stores.
If you’re looking for fresh air, the green spaces of the Leas provide views of the English Channel. The town’s proximity to London and the continent, facilitated by the Channel Tunnel and High Speed 1 rail link, makes it a convenient base. Take time to visit the historic Stade, central to the area’s fishing heritage, or East Cliff with its walking paths and panoramic views.
Beyond the town centre, places to visit include the historic Stade, with links to the area’s fishing past. The Harbour Screen provides summer entertainment, and the art scene draws visitors. The town is increasingly popular with those seeking an alternative to typical resorts. Check listings to find what appeals to you – you won’t be disappointed. Folkestone is also near other coastal towns; consider day trips to Herne Bay or Broadstairs. You might also plan a visit around the Folkestone Documentary Festival or Book Festival, annual events enriching the town’s intellectual life.
Folkestone is best explored on foot, especially around Old High Street with its colourful buildings and independent shops, and along the Leas. The Leas offers a scenic coastal promenade, with the Zig Zag Path leading down to the seafront. Be aware the terrain can be steep, so consider this if you have mobility issues. For longer distances, the local bus network connects neighbourhoods like West Cliff and Sandgate to the town centre. High-speed rail connections provide easy access from London. Folkestone attracts day-trippers, weekend visitors, and longer stays – expect activity around the Harbour and Leas during peak seasons.
If you prefer a quieter experience, explore residential areas like West Cliff, known for its Edwardian architecture, or Sandgate, a coastal village with a seafront promenade. Check for local events – Folkestone hosts the Folkestone Triennial, Folkestone Documentary Festival, and Folkestone Book Festival. See what’s on at Guildhall Street, or at the Harbour Screen during the summer. Consider the Stade, a historic fishing area. Whether you’re interested in art, the beach, or a pub, Folkestone offers a unique atmosphere, with its history as a port and resort evident throughout the town. The Channel Tunnel also provides easy access.
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Popular Places In Folkestone
Café
Cockpit CafeCockpit Cafe is a café on The Wing in Folkestone Town Centre.
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D1 Café and CoffeeD1 Café and Coffee is a café on Barnfield Road within Folkestone’s business park.
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Little RockLittle Rock is a restaurant on Folkestone Harbour, adding to the Harbour Arm’s lively setting.
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MarleysMarleys is a cafe bar on Folkestone's Old High Street, an area known for its independent shops and creative atmosphere.
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What Are The Best Things To Do In Folkestone?
Folkestone’s story stretches back to the Mesolithic period, with evidence of Roman and Iron Age settlements. By 1096, a castle was constructed. The town rose to prominence as a port in the 13th century, becoming a fashionable resort during the Victorian era with improved rail links. You’ll find a town revitalized by contemporary art, notably the Folkestone Triennial. The Harbour Screen offers outdoor entertainment, and the town’s position near the Channel Tunnel provides access to Europe. The town offers a range of things to do, reflecting its history and spirit.
What Is There To Do In Folkestone This Weekend?
Check our listings for the most current information on local events. The Folkestone Triennial, Folkestone Documentary Festival, and Folkestone Book Festival often run throughout the year, so see if any coincide with your visit. You might also find live music performances in the town centre. The Stade frequently hosts events. Guildhall Street also offers performance spaces. Consider visiting during one of Folkestone’s annual festivals. These events add to the town’s atmosphere. For evening entertainment, you’ll find pubs and venues, particularly in the town centre and Sandgate. The Leas also offers walks where events sometimes occur.
Where Can I Find Live Music In Folkestone?
Check our nightlife listings for the latest gigs. Folkestone is more renowned for its arts and coastal ambiance than a thriving club scene, but you can often find music at pubs and bars in the town centre and Guildhall Street. These include venues on Old High Street, known for independent businesses. For a wider selection, consider Sandgate, a coastal village with pubs and views. The Harbour Screen hosts outdoor films and sports during summer. Keep an eye out for the Folkestone Triennial, Documentary Festival, Book Festival, and Zombie Walk. The Stade also has pubs with music.
What Are The Best Areas To Visit In Folkestone?
The Leas offer coastal views and peaceful walks, perfect for a stroll. You can explore the promenade and descend via the Zig Zag Path to the seafront. The Stade provides a glimpse into Folkestone’s fishing heritage. Explore Guildhall Street, with independent shops and cafes. For a scenic walk, consider East Cliff, part of the Kent Downs. Old High Street is a cobbled lane with buildings offering shops, cafes, and performance spaces. Visit Sandgate, a coastal village, or consider a day trip to Herne Bay or Broadstairs.
Is Folkestone Good For A Weekend Visit?
Yes. Folkestone offers a convenient base for a weekend. Its position near the Channel Tunnel and high-speed rail makes it accessible from London and beyond. Explore the historic Stade, or wander the independent shops on Guildhall Street and Old High Street. The town’s coastal scenery, cultural attractions, and these businesses provide entertainment. For a scenic walk, head to the Leas. It also has a local food and drink scene. Consider checking the calendar for events such as the Folkestone Triennial, Documentary Festival, or Harbour Screen during your stay.
Events In Folkestone This Weekend
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Events In Folkestone This Week
Folkestone Academy Year 5 Open Mornings July 2026
Year 5 pupils and parents can attend open mornings to tour Folkestone Academy.