Folkestone Hotels
Mini guide to Folkestone
The southeast English port of Folkestone is often considered only a staging
point for journeys across the Channel, either by ferry or by train. There are,
however, plenty of attractions in and nearby the town to make a stay of a few
days very rewarding.
The cliffs form the focus of the town's tourism. The grassy promenade known
as the Leas leads across the cliffs and provides some pleasant wooded walks.
The Leas Lifts, built in 1885 and 1890, are termed 'water balance' lifts and
take you down to the beach. To the east stands Martello Tower No. 3, one of
74 defensive towers built between 1805 and 1808 during the Napoleonic period
along the south coast from Folkestone in Kent to Seaford in Sussex. It was later
adapted to serve numerous roles during World War II. The tower lies adjacent
to the Warren, internationally renowned for its geology and wildlife.
There are a wide variety of quality attractions surrounding the town. The Rotunda
Amusement Park is fun for all ages, as is the charming Elham Valley Railway
Museum at Peene, just off the A20. The museum features exhibits on local history,
artefacts and memorabilia of the golden age of the railway, pleasant gardens,
ducks, doves and, of course, trains. Military history buffs will enjoy the Battle
of Britain Museum at Hawkinge, which includes airplanes and exhibits about the
famous WWII aerial battle over London and the South East.
Despite the hordes of tourists that pass through the town, Folkestone is still
very much a traditional resort with a fishing fleet and fish market. There is
a wide variety of accommodation, as well as plenty of decent restaurants and
pubs.
Along Kent's northern coast are the picturesque towns of Sandwich (known worldwide
for its association with the popular culinary snack), Deal and Walmer, the latter
two of which boast charming castles and pleasant resorts. Other principal resort
towns along this section of the coast include Whitstable, Broadstairs, Dover
and Ramsgate. Kent's main entertainment and relaxation destination is the resort
town of Margate, popular with holidaymakers for more than 200 years. For a pleasant
diversion from the often crowded tourist haunts, head for Kent's hinterland
and southern coast. Royal Tunbridge Wells is a charming spa town, while the
seaside resort of Hythe is the gateway to the Romney and Denge marshes, and
boasts its own military heritage of the Royal Military Canal and Martello Towers.
Centrally situated in Kent, Canterbury is one of England's most historic cities
and boasts the spectacular Canterbury Cathedral, bastion of the Church of England
and fantastically eclectic in architectural styles. Kent's other main city is
Rochester, home to Charles Dickens and featuring an authentic Norman castle
and cathedral, as well as other relics from the city's Norman past. Nearby is
the historic port of Chatham.
Folkestone is conveniently located off the M20 from London. There are numerous
and fast rail and bus connections with London and the southeast and south coasts.
The nearest international airport is London Gatwick; however, there is a closer,
small domestic field: Lydd/Ashford.
www.kent.gov.uk
Selection of hotels in this region:
Grand Burstin Hotel | | The Lismore Hotel | | Grand Burstin Hotel 3/4 night stay | | Quality Hotel Burlington | |
Click below for a
full list of hotels and online booking
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