Already a holiday hotspot for tourists and locals alike, this seaside town is a magnet for the rich and famous, with celebrities regularly flocking to the stunning coast
This idyllic Kentish town on the coast, has become a firm favourite among Londoners, locals, and a host of celebrities. Tucked between Herne Bay and Seasalter, merely five miles north of Canterbury, Whitstable offers more than just its picturesque views.
Boasting a rich heritage, a plethora of eateries and watering holes, and attractions like the enchanting Whitstable Castle and Gardens, it’s an unmissable spot for any traveller.
The town’s sprawling beach is a gem, luring in both locals and visitors from afar. Whitstable has also turned into a hotspot for celebrities who now call the town home.
The late Peter Cushing, famed for his Hammer Horror roles and a Whitstable local, has left an indelible mark on the town. Other well-known personalities such as comedians Harry Hill and Alan Davies, along with journalist Janet Street-Porter, have also called Whitstable home over the years, reported Nottinghamshire Live.
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Even A-listers from across the pond, like Breaking Bad star Aaron Paul and adult film star Mia Khalifa, have been captivated by Whitstable’s allure. Following her visit to the town, Mia took to Instagram to proclaim that Whitstable was “better than Miami”.
During 2022, the 32 year old stayed for a fortnight at a luxury Airbnb right on the beachfront in Whitstable, shelling out £580 per night for the privilege. As she prepared to depart, she shared her disappointment on Instagram, telling her followers, “I’ve been in Whitstable the past two weeks, and I’m heartbroken to leave.”
If you fancy a pint with the stars, be sure to pop into the Old Neptune pub. This delightful establishment, fondly referred to as the Neppy by locals, is not only a hop, skip and a jump from the beach but also a hotspot for celebrities.
The dog-friendly pub offers an impressive array of local brews and wines, and its Facebook page is often graced with the delighted owners posing alongside their famous clientele.
Among the celebs caught enjoying a tipple here are Louis Dunford, famed for his tune The Angel (North London Forever), and EastEnders’ Sean Williamson, best known for his portrayal of Barry in the soap. The list of celebs who’ve popped in for a pint is lengthy, featuring big hitters like celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, telly presenter Stacey Dooley, and Love Island’s Montana Brown.
Whitstable provides the ideal blend of seaside allure and star allure, attracting not just those seeking breath-taking views but also the glitterati. But it’s not all about rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous; Whitstable Beach has become a favourite spot for film and TV crews, appearing in hits such as Acorn TV’s Whitstable Pearl, Interior Design Masters, and even Celebrity Antiques Roadshow.
It’s worth noting that Whitstable Beach has also served as a backdrop for films, including Still Life starring Eddie Marsan, which hit cinemas in 2013.
Whitstable Beach, famed for its lengthy shingle stretch segmented by wooden groynes, draws in crowds from all corners. Despite lacking the golden sands or typical seaside attractions like a pier or rides, The Beach Guide has lauded it for encapsulating the ‘best of the traditional British seaside’ due to its ‘quirkiness and charm’.
A stroll along the seafront unveils a collection of vibrant beach huts and fishing boats hauled right up onto the shore. There are ample spots nearby to grab a bite, including the acclaimed Whitstable Oyster Company.
Just a stone’s throw away is the South Quay Shed, a relatively new addition to the area that houses a variety of top-notch eateries and independent shops. Whitstable Beach is also a popular spot for windsurfing and sailing, with the Whitstable Yacht Club situated towards the northern end.
Furthermore, thanks to its westerly facing direction, it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset.