IN ASSOCIATION WITH
DOVER CASTLE
STEEP STREET COFFEE
The newly titled Creative Folkestone is a prime example of this development and preservation . Art and culture now thrive in this once forgotten seaside destination of the Victorian age , flowing through the town and taking shape in various sights , venues , events and activities . Follow the poignant story-telling trail of Folkestone Artworks ( www . creativefolkestone . org . uk ) which gathers up the history and location of the town by encapsulating the depths of its identity and expressing it to visitors through proud and imposing sculptures ; as well as more discrete pieces , that remain hidden under benches reflecting the sad and forgotten tales that they intend to shed light upon . Wander down the Harbour Arm , Folkestone ’ s most iconic and photographed landmark , now a promenade stretching out to sea bustling with activity . Whether a foodie wanting to explore the The East Yard ’ s eclectic mix of food and drinks traders ; a music lover attending one of the many performances and events held at The Goods Yard ; or simply a lover of vast , panoramic sea views ; there is something for every visitor at this pier that now heralds creativity and embraces the beauty of its geographic landscape through the arts .
Referring to 2020 ’ s lockdown and the push this gave us to discover more heritage spots on our doorsteps , as well as the need to travel responsibly , Lonely Planet ’ s vice president of experience , Tom Hall , commented that Kent ’ s Heritage Coast “ offers a unique combination of history , heritage , stunning and iconic natural landscapes and is now a leader in sustainable tourism initiatives . This forward-thinking approach towards community projects that help both locals and tourists alike , as well as the commitment to regenerative tourism , influenced the region ' s high rating in this year ’ s Best in Travel list .”
A chief example of a regenerated seaside town that now thrives in economic abundance , Folkestone not only showcases its unique identity through art , statues and sculptures but also through an abundance of vibrant cafés , delicious eateries and funky independent shops . Turn away from the Harbour Arm and walk up the steep and narrow Old High Street with its cobblestones and low hanging doorways , venture into Steep Street Coffee ( www . steepstreet . co . uk ) with its walls covered from floor to ceiling in shelves of books , take a seat in a squashy armchair and indulge in one of their fluffy homemade cakes alongside a strong , expertly roasted cup of coffee . If you hunger for more of a meal visit Marley ’ s ( www . marleysfolkestone . co . uk ) who thrive on turning local produce into delectable hearty meals full of real goodness and mouth watering taste . Folkestone ’ s Creative Quarter ( www . creativefolkestone . org . uk / folkestone-creative-quarter ) also has an abundance of independent shops each with their own collection of treasures ripe for you to find your own , with everything from homeware , art galleries , toy shops , records and clothing , anyone is sure to go home with a souvenir .
Lonely Planet also highlighted Kent ’ s involvement in two Interreg funded projects ; the EXPERIENCE project , which supports local tourism and hospitality businesses in developing new , low-environmental impact , year-round tourism experiences , and the UNESCO Sites Across the Channel project which seeks to celebrate and protect our natural and cultural assets whilst contributing to the sustainable development of the local economy . An area that featured prominently in this recognition is Dover . With its magnitude of historical importance and iconic White Cliffs , also known as the Gateway to Britain , Dover is brimming with intriguing tourism opportunities . A natural , year-round asset to Dover from which the area ’ s breathtaking mass of scenery can be best appreciated , with low-environmental impact , is the St Margarets at Cliffe Coastal Walk . Beginning at St Margaret ’ s Bay , a sheltered , shingle beach enclosed by the cliffs themselves , walkers can spot France on a clear day and wander past historic monuments such as the South Foreland Lighthouse , The Dover Patrol Monument and the Coastguard Station . From the cliff tops , enjoy glorious views of chalk white cliffs against blue ocean , as well as the chance to spot rare insects and plants specific to this unique habitat and its rugged charm . Back in the bustling town , discover museums , ancient landmarks and exhibitions which piece together everything from the Roman Invasion of Britain , such as The Roman Painted House ( www . karu . org . uk / roman _ painted _ house ) up to the town ’ s legendary involvement in WW2 , which can be witnessed at the incredible Secret Wartime Tunnels ( www . english-heritage . org . uk / visit / places / dovercastle ) running maze-like beneath the magnificent hilltop Dover Castle .
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