A wonderful first-floor converted cart barn in the village of Godmersham, Kent. Hot tub. Within the Kent Downs AONB. Romantic. Off-road parking. Ashford 6.3 miles; Canterbury 8.9 miles; Folkestone 19.8 miles.
If you’re on the lookout for a coastal getaway, Whitstable is a standout option. Located on the north coast of Kent, this seaside town has it all, from world-famous seafood to independent businesses by the bay. Plan a fantastic family holiday or a book that special romantic log cabin for two.
One of Whitstable’s three iconic beaches, Tankerton is lined with wooden beach huts and Tankerton Bay sailing club prides itself on being the “best sailing club on the North Kent coast.” And if you fancy a breakaway for some ocean views, head to Tankerton Slopes just behind the beach for perfect picnic spots. And best of all, it’s roughly a five-minute drive from Whitstable town centre, or twenty minutes by foot!
But if the dog needs to get out and about too, Whitstable West beach is ideal. Just last year it was named as one of the UK’s safest dog-friendly seafronts! With local shops, restaurants and the Neptune pub virtually opposite the beach, you’ll hardly need to bring anything with you! Just a six-minute drive or a twelve-minute walk from the town centre, it’s the perfect break away from the hustle of town.
The main attraction of them all, however, has to be Whitstable beachfront. The shingled beach is popular with windsurfers, sailors and foodies alike, with Whitstable’s famous oysters available to eat by the shore.
Speaking of those world-famous oysters, a visit to Wheelers Oyster Bar is a must for any seafood lover. Opened in 1856 by Richard Leggy Wheeler, the bar even makes its bread from scratch and works with local fishermen to get the freshest, most local produce for customers
And if seafood doesn’t float your boat, then head to The Sportsman. Whilst evidence of an inn there dates back to 1642, the current team led by chef Stephen Harris opened The Sportsman in 1999 and has held a Michelin Star since 2008. Their five-course tasting menu is a great chance to sample local cuisine, with seafood coming from the Thames Estuary, meat, vegetables and game coming from the marshland and a small kitchen garden on-site providing fruit and vegetables.
When you’re looking for local produce to cook at your accommodation, a trip to Grain & Hearth is the way to go! Specialising in handmade sourdough bread and pastries, you’re sure to find the perfect loaf or sweet treat – and even pick up a coffee on the way! Why not even try your hand at making your own with Sourdough and pizza making workshops?
Not only do Whitstable’s many eateries make it a great staycation, but the wide range of independent shops are perfect for those wanting something to take home. Visit the Harbour Market for a variety of hand-crafted goods and fine art to remind you of your trip, or head over to Harbour Books to find those beach-perfect reads. You can even pick up the smell of Whitstable at Whitstable Lavender with their soap bars and dried lavender bunches on offer.
Whitstable Community Museum and Gallery offers the chance for visitors to learn more about the area and its history of diving, fishing, shipwrecks, shipbuilding and oysters. There are even activities available to keep the little ones entertained! With records dating back to 1709, the museum is full of history inside and out.
For the artists on holiday with you, take a look at the Horsebridge Arts Centre. Located in the heart of Whitstable, the space can feature over 100 artists in 35+ exhibitions in one year. There are even classes and workshops on offer run by the Centre and local businesses! And while you’re taking in Whitstable’s culture, be sure to stop by the shop, stocked with products designed and made by those in the community.
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