Beaches in Folkestone and Hythe: Must-See Coastal Spots and Attractions

Folkestone and Hythe is a district on the Kent coast which includes the beautiful seaside towns of Folkestone, Hythe, Sandgate, and Dungeness. Folkestone and Hythe District has a population of about 110,000 people.

Award Winning Beaches

Dymchurch Beach holds the Seaside Award 2024 accolade. Other beaches have held awards, such as the prestigious Blue Flag Award, in the past.

Dogs on the Beach

Find out what restrictions there are for dogs on the beaches in Folkestone and Hythe District.

Attractions in Folkestone and Hythe

There are several seaside, cultural, and natural attractions in Kent’s Folkestone and Hythe region, including:

• Folkestone Harbour Arm: Renovated pier with fantastic views of the coast, dining options, pubs, and live entertainment.
• Lower Leas Coastal Park: An amphitheatre, gardens, walking trails, and a sizable kids’ play area are all features of this exquisitely manicured park.
• The Folkestone Creative Quarter is a dynamic neighbourhood with a strong arts sector and a multitude of independent galleries, stores, and cafes.
• Every three years, Folkestone has a public art event called the Folkestone Triennial, which features installations all across the town.
• Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway: From Hythe to Dungeness, this historic steam train provides beautiful coastal excursions.
• Dungeness: Dungeness Nature Reserve, Derek Jarman’s Garden, two lighthouses, and the Dungeness Nuclear Power Station are located in this unusual and untamed area with a shingle beach.
• Port Lympne Safari and Wild Animal Reserve: A luxury lodging option and guided excursions are provided by this safari-style animal park and conservation reserve.
• Brockhill Country Park is a serene park including lakes, forests, and picnic spaces in the vicinity of Hythe.
• Situated in Hawkinge, the Kent Battle of Britain Museum is home to one of the biggest collections of WWII aircraft and souvenirs.
• Elham Valley is a stunning rural location ideal for cycling, hiking, and discovering the countryside of Kent.
• Saltwood Castle is an ancient Norman castle close to Hythe that is sometimes connected to Thomas Becket’s murder.
• The Warren: This coastal nature reserve, tucked away near Folkestone, is a hidden gem with stunning cliffs, rock pools and animals. It’s a popular place to walk and go fossil digging.
• Folkestone Museum: Featuring displays spanning from archaeology to the arts, the museum showcases the town’s marine, military, and cultural past.
• Samphire Hoe: a natural reserve with footpaths and animal viewing opportunities that were established from the Channel Tunnel excavations, close to Folkestone.
• The 28-mile Hythe Military Canal is a picturesque area for bicycling, strolling, and boating. It was originally constructed as a defence against Napoleon.
• Near Hythe, Lympne Castle is a mediaeval fortress with breathtaking views of the coast and Romney Marsh. It is a popular venue for weddings and other festivities.
• Folkestone Airshow: Every year, Folkestone’s shoreline is graced with antique aircraft and aerobatic demonstrations.
• Saxon Shore Way: An extensive coastal trail with breathtaking views of the shoreline, it winds through Folkestone, Sandgate, and Hythe.
• The Capel-le-Ferne Cliff Walks are a network of cliffside paths that are perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers, providing stunning views of the White Cliffs and the Channel.
• Lympne Airfield Memorial Park honours the airfield’s military past while serving as a tranquil recreation area for guests.

Transport

This district has convenient road connections to the highway system, making it easily accessible. By train, Folkestone and Hythe are connected to London stations. Bus services are in operation