A quaint seaside town in the UK which was once home to the busiest port in England has incredible views out to sea where you can often spot the coast of France
A quirky English resort has a wealth of attractions for the unsuspecting visitor, from its rich maritime history, to its many shops and eateries and peaceful beach described as ‘sheer bliss’ by one happy daytripper.
Just an hour away from the hustle and bustle of London is a charming and unsung seaside town with a huge, peaceful beach that offers incredible, unspoilt views across the English Channel. On clear days it’s even possible to see the coast of France from the shore.
Deal in Kent is located between Dover and Ramsgate on the south eastern coast of Britain. The former fishing, mining and garrison town was once home to the busiest port in England and the town’s rich maritime background can be explored at the Deal Maritime and Local History Museum or the Timeball Tower Museum. Visitors can enjoy a series of displays and artefacts, which uncover the town’s maritime, industrial and leisure history.
Sandown, Deal and Walmer castles were built around the town by Henry VIII to protect against foreign attack from the sea. Today they offer sightseers a glimpse into the past, with Deal Castle also having breathtaking views of the Channel.
The vast Deal Castle Beach where you can stroll along the 300 metre Grade II listed pier, is renowned for its peace and quiet. CNN Traveler dubbed Deal England’s “best kept beach secret”, writing: “The unsung seaside town has long been a destination for those in the know.” One of those described the beach as “sheer bliss” and went on to share their thoughts on Tripadvisor: “Yes I know it’s shingle, but Deal Beach is paradise,” they wrote. “Walk fifty yards to the right of the castle and you will have the entire stretch of beach to yourself. Stare out to sea and you could be anywhere.”
Another also sang its praises, writing: “While in Deal, you must check out the gorgeous and peaceful Deal Beach. It’s the perfect spot to stroll along the promenade and enjoy the breathtaking views. If you’re brave enough to face the chilly water, you can even go for a swim! When I visited on a bank holiday, the beach was practically empty, which made for a wonderfully serene experience. Personally, I found the Walmer side of the beach to be particularly charming, what with the fishing boats and white beach huts.”
There are plenty of waterfront restaurants where you can enjoy some freshly caught seafood and more eateries in the charming town itself. Its picture-perfect Georgian houses, alleys and narrow streets were infamous in the 18th century for smuggling. Creative types will love the town’s art galleries, exhibitions and events including the popular Festival of Music & the Arts.
Other fans of the town also shared their experiences in Deal. One wrote: “Just a lovely place to enjoy the vast sea, even though it’s actually the narrow part of the English Channel & the North Sea. Lots of coffee shops, ice cream parlours, watering holes, restaurants and shops galore with unique items.” Another raved: “Beautiful place that is made even better by the fact that Deal is a really old school seaside town without much in the way of amusement arcades and some fantastic pubs and restaurants.”
Have you ever visited Deal? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below.
