Escape to Whitstable, a charming coastal town just an hour from London, offering stunning sea views, vibrant arts, and some of the UK’s finest seafood for the perfect seaside retreat
If you’re in search of a coastal retreat this classic British town should be at the top of your list. Just an hour from London, Whitstable, is a quirky little town on the Kent coast offering everything you could wish for breathtaking sea views, a vibrant arts scene, and, of course, some of the finest seafood in the UK. Whether you’re planning a peaceful weekend away or a longer stay to fully unwind.
Whitstable’s High Street is a delightful collection of independent shops, cosy cafés, and creative art galleries, each with its own character. The colourful beach huts, which line the shoreline, are an iconic part of the town’s charm, and make a wonderful backdrop for walking. It’s a place where the pace is slower, strolling by the sea, or sipping coffee.
Oysters
No trip to Whitstable is complete without indulging in the town’s famed oysters. These shellfish have been harvested from the town’s waters since Roman times, and are a true taste of the coast. Each July, Whitstable hosts its famous Oyster Festival, a lively celebration of all things oyster, featuring oyster-eating competitions, street parades, and live music.
Relax
There are loads of ways to relax in Whitstable. A coastal walk along the Tankerton Slopes will give you views of the coastline, while the town’s beaches are perfect for a quiet walk. Whitstable Castle has charming gardens which are great to visit on a quiet afternoon with loads of hiking and cycling routes nearby too.
Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them occupied, from paddleboarding and kayaking to sailing and windsurfing.
Where to stay
The Marine Hotel provides the perfect base for a traditional coastal getaway. With cosy rooms and sea views, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a classic British seaside experience.
For a more modern vibe, the Hotel Continental offers stylish rooms just moments from the water’s edge. For families or groups looking for something more spacious, Warehouse Holiday Lets offers lots of stylish, self-catering properties with modern amenities. Many of these spacious homes come with balconies or private gardens, providing the ideal space to gather, relax, and enjoy the fresh coastal air.
A perfect escape
Whitstable has it all. It’s a place where you can escape the stresses of your everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of the sea, the unique bustling of independent shops, and the flavours of fresh, locally caught seafood which Whitestable is known for. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, an outdoor adventure, or a food-focused getaway, Whitstable offers the perfect balance of both.
Some time away in Whitstable will be a welcome break with its picturesque streets, exceptional food scene, and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to recharge, and forget about the 9-5 and enjoy somewhere new in the UK. From a quiet beach walk or a feast of fresh oysters or other seafood, Whitstable offers a British seaside town experience with luxury making it the perfect escape when you don’t want to hop on a flight.