Deal in Kent is a historic town perched on the eastern coast of England that has been dubbed a ‘beautiful seaside town’ and ‘best kept beach secret’ for a good reason
Spring’s in the air and it’s time to plan that much-needed getaway – but there’s no need to jet off too far when an underrated gem is tucked away on our very doorstep.
Deal, a quaint town steeped in history on Kent’s eastern shoreline, offering mesmerising English Channel views – and it’s just an hour’s train ride from the hustle and bustle of London. On those glorious clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of France from the comfort of Deal’s sandy stretches.
But there’s more to this town than just its beaches; strolling through Deal is a feast for the eyes with its vibrant pastel cottages, refined Georgian architecture, and the commanding presence of its Tudor castle perched above the coast.
The Guardian has waxed lyrical about Deal, hailing it as Kent’s “most charming” town, while Restless has extolled this “quirky yet underrated town [which] boasts gorgeous sea views year rounds,” as the UK’s ‘beautiful seaside town’.
CNN Traveler has joined the chorus of praise, dubbing Deal England’s “best kept beach secret” whilst applauding the town as “the unsung seaside town has long been a destination for those in the know.” At the heart of this coastal treasure stands Deal Castle, a magnificent bulwark constructed by King Henry III in 1540 as a sentinel against French ambitions.
It’s a place where centuries intertwine – the castle bore witness to the tumultuous tides of England’s 17th-century civil wars and served as a vigilant guardian of Britain’s cliffs during the perilous days of World War Two. Today, visitors can conquer the battlements, revel in a serene picnic upon its grounds, or simply bask in the panoramic Channel views that accompany this noble castle by the sea, reports the Express.
One of the most picturesque spots in Deal is undoubtedly Deal Castle Beach and its 300-metre promenade, one of only two in Kent. The beach is famed for its vibrant fishing boats, known as the Deal cutters, and there’s a host of activities to enjoy nearby such as crazy golf, paddling, sailing, not to mention a variety of shops and restaurants.
If you’re an art lover, you’ll be smitten with Deal as the town boasts numerous art galleries and museums to explore. The Aster Theatre is also worth a visit, with a constant stream of fun performances and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Once you delve into the heart of Deal, you’ll find a plethora of quirky shops to browse, and even local flea markets to peruse, like the Deal Saturday Market where you can buy fresh local food, clothes, flowers, jewellery and toys. The town also features a range of independent shops renowned for selling vintage goods including vinyl records, books, collectables and expertly sourced clothes and furniture.
However, one of the best places for a snap in Deal is Middle Street, a narrow winding street iconic for its colourful Georgian homes. Despite its beauty, Middle Street has a mysterious past, known as a hub for smugglers in the 17th and 18th centuries.
However, Deal is not just for explorers but also a haven for food lovers. The town boasts a produce market on Wednesdays and Fridays, alongside a variety of restaurants offering seafood, French cuisine, and traditional British fare.
Regardless of your itinerary, Deal, a hidden gem, is worth a visit for its stunning beach views, rich history, and unique shops.