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Folkestone

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About Folkestone

The gateway to Europe by rail, Folkestone is a popular Kentish fishing town, ideal for either a seaside escape or a foray to France via the Eurotunnel. Folkestone features a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from low-key guesthouses to luxurious boutique boltholes, fit for a whole host of budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Folkestone includes a chic foodie favourite, a charming beach hideaway and a Regency townhouse with beautifully-appointed rooms. Whether you’re dreaming of a long weekend by the sea or planning a brief stop-over before venturing south across the Channel, Folkestone is a brilliant destination.

Nestled between chalky cliffs and the Kent Downs, Folkestone has a long history as a trading and fishing port. The harbour area is still bustling, and a recent regeneration project has led to the creation of The Harbour Arm — an appealing promenade stretching from the old railway station to the lighthouse. Stroll along the walkway for striking views of the White Cliffs and the sea, before popping into a lively bar or eatery to savour freshly caught seafood and a sundowner or two. For art galleries and independent boutiques, follow the winding lanes of the Creative Quarter and the Old High Street, lined with brightly-painted shopfronts. Meet local artists, shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, and pick a perch at a buzzing cafe for a well-deserved slice of cake as you watch the world go by.

Discover the region’s past at the Folkestone Museum, admire the impressive grounds of The Grand, tour Dover Castle or take the whole family to Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve for amazing animals, woodland walks and child-friendly attractions aplenty. The Battle of Britain Memorial, too, makes for an intriguing stop, whilst Hythe & Saltwood Sailing Club is the perfect starting point for adventurers eager to get out on the water.

Whether you’re in town for a classic fish & chips, laid-back beach days or easy access to the Channel Tunnel, the best places to stay in Folkestone promise welcoming hosts, hearty breakfasts and lovely bedrooms — some of which boast spectacular sea views. A Kentish seaside break to remember!

The Best Places to Stay in Folkestone

For a central stay

  • Stay 2A offers three spacious, modern rooms in central Folkestone. Set above a family-owned Greek restaurant, this is a great spot for exploring the town on foot. Expect a laid-back feel, a warm welcome and very good value.
  • Relish is a chic B&B with ten luxurious bedrooms in the heart of Folkestone. Stay here for the hip decor, with fun wallpaper and bright pops of colour, as well as the free evening drink and moreish tea and cake. Well-placed for strolling around town. A charming boutique choice in an attractive Regency townhouse!

For beachfront bliss

  • The Beach B&B is an intimate hideaway set right on the beach in Hythe, just five minutes' drive from the Channel Tunnel. White-washed rooms are individually styled with appealing nautical touches —some boast spectacular sea views — there is a large shared terrace, and brilliant cooked breakfasts are served each morning. A wonderful base for a seaside escape!

For Foodies

  • Rocksalt is a fantastic coastal restaurant with four boutique rooms overlooking Folkestone harbour. Pick this place for the top notch seafood, panoramic sea views and cool, contemporary vibe. Book the interconnected Family Room if travelling with kids. Sip quirky cocktails on the sea-facing terrace before feasting on fresh fish and locally sourced Kentish fare in the pared-back restaurant. An indulgent foodie favourite!

For an apartment or holiday cottage

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • International visitors should fly into Gatwick Airport and catch a train or bus to Folkestone. The journey from London takes just under an hour.
  • If you would like to hire a car, we suggest that you contact our online partner Rentalcars.
  • Visit Folkestone in July or August for long days and pleasant temperatures, which reach a lovely 21°C. Alternatively, time your trip for the spring or autumn months to avoid the crowds!

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Best Hotels in Folkestone

  • Stay 2a Folkestone 3 rooms from $102

    Local exploring  -  With beaches, historical sights, and the lovely Victorian architecture of the town to explore - there is plenty to do locally
    Short break  -  Located just a few miles from the Channel Tunnel, this is a great option for a night's stay before or after travelling
    Great walks  -  Take long walks through the Kent Down Area of Natural Beauty and spot the sculptures hidden amongst vegitation
    Restaurant  -  Sotirios serves classic Greek cuisine alongside brasserie style dishes
    RestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

    Three contemporary and quirky rooms attached to a family-run Greek restaurant in a central spot in Folkestone. Each room has its own theme, the cheesiest of these being 'burlesque' where silhouettes of dancers adorn the walls. Welcoming and well placed, this is perfect for a laid-back stay. See More

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  • The Beach B&B Kent 7 rooms from $128

    Total relaxation  -  A tranquil hideaway just steps from the ocean.
    Great walks  -  Take long walks in the scenic Brockhill Country Park.
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
    GardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A chic bed and breakfast with direct access to the sea. White washed rooms are light and airy with parquet floors, contemporary furniture and glorious sea views. Indulgent breakfasts are served up on the terrace (weather depending). A charming hideaway. See More

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  • The Relish Folkestone 10 rooms from $138

    Local exploring  -  Folkestone has a plethora of things to see and do, from the sandy beaches to historic sights
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll along the Leas Cliff Promenade and admire the Victorian architecture on one side and the coast on the other
    Full of character
    Boutique
    GardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A chic little boutique set just minutes from the coast in Folkestone. Individually styled rooms feature hip vibrant wallpaper and simple modern furniture. Owner managed, this property has some nice extra touches such as a free evening drink and cake and tea offered throughout the day. Charming. See More

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  • Rocksalt Folkestone 4 rooms from $154

    Foodies  -  Fabulous seafood, impressive architecture and wonderful seaviews make this a restaurant worthy of a visit.
    Sights nearby  -  View the Folkestone White Horse created with limestone slabs against a hillside.
    Full of character
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    RestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    Standing proudly on the harbour side a curved black beauty of a building houses the fantastic seafood Rocksalt restaurant. Nearby (also harbour side) are four charming rooms with white washed exposed stone, beamed ceilings and crisp white linen. Ideal for weekend coastal breaks. See More

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