PARADISO
HARBOUR ARM
Continue on an artistic trail and take part in the UK ’ s largest urban contemporary art exhibition , Folkestone Artworks . Completely free and accessible 24 hours a day every day of the year , download the map and make it your mission to discover the 46 artists ’ work located at different spots along the coastline including works from Tracey Emin , Antony Gormley and many others . You ’ ll actually find one of Gormley ’ s located on Folkestone ’ s Harbour Arm and hidden in a secretive scenic location . Originally the railway terminal for the Folkestone-Boulogne ferry , the Harbour Arm has become a pivotal point in the town ’ s future while holding onto its integral history . Discover the many walkways bursting with independent eateries , bars and pop-ups . Perch yourself on a bench overlooking the sea and tuck into a monster helping of Mexican fare with one of Burrito Buoys wraps or go Greek with a tender chicken gyros from The Big Greek Bus … all washed down with one of Wild Boxes ’ creative cocktails of course .
For staycationers looking for the ultimate overnight stay and cultural experience in one , check in and chill at The Relish , a contemporary accommodation at the heart of Folkestone . Or , for something a little more secluded , stop by the Bloom ’ s Stays website and choose one of the outstanding handpicked accommodations , many of which boast beautiful views across the sea .
Uncover Margate
A little further along the coast at Kent ’ s northeast tip and bursting with cosmopolitan culture , you ’ ll discover the timelessly English seaside town of Margate . Nowadays referred to as Shoreditch-bythe-Sea , this spot is the perfect mix of worldly charm and 21st-century culture . Margate ’ s coastal stretch , once considered a little down-and-out , still holds onto its effortless charm and is home to Dreamland , one of the country ' s finest and famously recognised theme parks , classic arcades , independent cafes , vintage stores and a world-class art gallery . And , its creative flair isn ’ t just attracting the younger crowds ; oh no , everyone is fleeing there to soak up that artistic energy !
Start the day with a full tummy assisted by a trip to Margate ' s old town ; brimming with indie cafes , you ’ re sure to find something to suit most tastes .
Head to Love Cafe ; a cafe by day and restaurant / bar by night , this super cool venu has a menu as attractive as its interior . No trip to Margate is complete without a look inside the iconic and world-recognised gallery , The Turner Contemporary . The modern , sleek-looking seafront gallery sits in the spot where J . M . W Turner himself used to stay during his visits to the town , and the architectural masterpiece showcases exquisite collections from both historical and contemporary artists , as well as playing host to a variety of one-off workshops open to the general public . The town so loved by artists including its very own Tracey Emin now paves a way for a whole new generation of artists . Stop by the Carl Freedman Gallery and uncover three gallery spaces displaying exhibitions from local and world renowned artists , or curate your own trail and go in search of the gallerys hidden amongst Margate ’ s cobbled streets . Pie Factory Margate , a space for local exhibits , offers a wonderful curated exhibition programme , and The Eclectic Art Gallery , situated in the old town , showcases Kent based artists – a place for them to affordably exhibit and sell their work .
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