Places to Visit in Folkestone

Folkestone’s venues reflect a town shaped by its position between sea and land, and a history stretching from the Mesolithic era to Victorian resort and beyond. Buildings here tell stories, from the sturdy, repurposed structures of the Stade, once the heart of a thriving fishing industry, to the grand scale of architecture along the Leas, remnants of a fashionable past. Even the more modern spaces often carry echoes of the town’s creative reinvention.

The character of Folkestone Town Centre is particularly evident in the mix of uses found within its older buildings, while further afield in Sandgate, you’ll find venues established in buildings with a distinct coastal history. These spaces aren’t simply rooms; they are integral to the town’s identity. Many are located within buildings showcasing Edwardian architecture or bearing the marks of earlier eras, testaments to the town’s evolution.

This directory aims to capture the spirit of these places, offering a glimpse into the character of Folkestone through the spaces where people gather. You can find listings spanning pubs, galleries, performance spaces and more. We work to ensure these listings remain current, reflecting the day-to-day life of the town. The information here is updated daily, offering a real-time overview of what’s happening in Folkestone.

Featured Places in Folkestone

Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.

Fine Dining Restaurant

Rocksalt

Rocksalt is a fine dining restaurant situated on the Folkestone Harbour. The building reflects the area’s industrial past and recent regeneration. Rocksalt is known for its seasonal tasting menu, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and the freshest catch.

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Restaurant

Annapurna Nepalese Restaurant

Annapurna Nepalese Restaurant serves authentic cuisine on Cheriton Place in Folkestone. As the only Nepalese restaurant in Kent, it’s well known for its freshly prepared Momo, steamed dumplings that consistently receive high ratings. Both locals and visitors go to Annapurna Nepalese Restaurant for casual meals, family gatherings, and evening dining.

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Food & Drink

Marleys

Marleys is a cafe bar on Folkestone's Old High Street, an area known for its independent shops and creative atmosphere. Marleys gained recognition for its craft beers and relaxed atmosphere. Locals and visitors go to Marleys for casual gatherings, a weekend brunch, or a break while walking along the seafront.

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Café

Cockpit Cafe

Cockpit Cafe is a café on The Wing in Folkestone Town Centre. This venue offers a unique view of France across the English Channel. Locals and visitors go to Cockpit Cafe for coffee, a light lunch, or to enjoy the scenery.

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Pub

The Firkin Alehouse

The Firkin Alehouse is a micropub on Cheriton Place in Folkestone. This area is known for its access to the harbour and the town’s growing selection of independent businesses. The Firkin Alehouse is known for its range of beers and ciders, and uniquely, a ban on mobile phone use.

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Street Food Plaza

The Goods Yard

The Goods Yard is an outdoor street food plaza located on Folkestone’s Harbour Arm. This converted industrial space offers a lively atmosphere close to the town’s creative quarter. It’s particularly known for its wood-fired pizza and rotating selection of craft beers.

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