Folkestone is a major coastal town in Kent, situated on the English Channel close to the Strait of Dover and the French coast. The town grew from a fishing and harbour settlement into a fashionable Victorian seaside resort and later became an important transport centre connecting Britain with continental Europe. Its dramatic position beneath the Kent Downs gives Folkestone a distinctive combination of cliffs, sea views and historic streets. Today it is one of the principal destinations on the Kent coast and an important centre for tourism, culture and international transport.
Folkestone: Historical sights and information
Facts about Folkestone
- Latitude:
- 51.082407
- Longitude:
- 1.180284
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°05' N, 01°11' E
The historical and tourist importance of the town
Folkestone Harbour and the Harbour Arm are among the town's most popular attractions, combining seaside walks, restaurants, events and views across the English Channel. The Creative Quarter in the Old Town is known for independent galleries, studios, cafés and small businesses housed in historic streets. The Leas provides an elegant clifftop promenade overlooking the sea, while the Lower Leas Coastal Park offers gardens, open spaces and access to the beach. Nearby attractions include Dover Castle, the White Cliffs of Dover and the historic villages and countryside of the Kent Downs.
Food, shopping and when to visit
Folkestone has a diverse food scene ranging from traditional fish and chips and seafood to modern restaurants, cafés and international cuisine. The Harbour Arm and Creative Quarter are particularly popular for independent food businesses and local producers. Late spring through early autumn is ideal for enjoying the seafront, harbour and coastal walks, although the cultural attractions and restaurants make the town lively throughout the year. Folkestone is also an important gateway to continental Europe, with the Channel Tunnel terminal at nearby Cheriton providing direct rail connections to France.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Folkestone.