THE LIGHTHOUSE CHAMPAGNE BAR AND TASTING ROOMS
DEAL PIER KITCHEN
Creative Folkestone is another jewel in Kent ’ s treasure chest of seaside acclamations . Stretching out into the ocean in an awe-inspiring fashion and sure to be a striking visual whatever the weather is the Harbour Arm ( www . folkestoneharbourarm . co . uk ). Whether the sea glitters around you in the sunlight , or waves crash wildly against the sides , a wander down the Harbour Arm is sure to excite and delight . Spot the iconic lighthouse marking the end , inspiringly painted with the inscription : ‘ weather is a third to time and place ’ and enjoy food and drinks from a plethora of brilliant options that call this unique pier home . Highlights include The Lighthouse Champagne Bar and Tasting Rooms , a wonderful place to enjoy fish and seafood alongside a glass of bespoke bubbly while taking in the dramatic views of the ocean and famous white chalk cliffs . The Pilot Beach Bar is situated on the western side of the Harbour Arm , with an expanse of sea and sky beyond , and vistas of France on a clear day , making it the perfect place to enjoy a selection of cocktails , coffees , wines and beers as you lounge back on a deck chair .
The neighbouring town of Dover is not just the home of the port which acts as the gateway to Britain , or the famous White Cliffs . Dover Marina is also home to the waterside pub and restaurant , Cullins Yard ( www . cullinsyard . co . uk ), which has a unique garden overlooking the bobbing boats stationed at the marina itself . With a menu to cater for all tastes as well as an extensive wine list and generously stocked bar , including their own beer brewed on site , a trip to Cullins Yard will be certain to please all parties . Just along the coast nestled in the stunning St Margaret ’ s Bay is The Coastguard ( www . thecoastguard . co . uk ), Britain ’ s closest pub to France . Keeping watch on the seas for over 300 years , today The Coastguard offers superb homemade British dishes with everything from hearty English breakfasts to comforting Sunday roasts . The pub ’ s look is inspired by maritime heritage , with a red and white lighthouse-style fascia and boat-shaped planters and lifebuoys dotted around the beautiful front verandah . An outside bar and barbecue set the scene for summer at the beach , and in winter the pub offers a haven for those enjoying a bracing walk .
If you are feeling adventurous , head from The Coastguard along the famed White Cliffs towards Kingsdown Beach . Here you will find another beachside pub , The Zetland Arms ( www . zetlandarms . co . uk ), standing alone and confronting the roaring ocean waves head on . Continue walking along the coastline and eventually you will pass through Walmer with its pretty Walmer Castle ( www . englishheritage . org . uk / visit / places / walmer-castle-and-gardens ) and find yourself in Deal , which comes complete with a vast pebble beach and lengthy pier at the end of which sits Deal Pier Kitchen ( www . dealpierkitchen . com ). A unique and much loved eatery that has cultivated a reputation for great brunch and lunch as well as steak and lobster , Deal
Pier Kitchen showcases local produce and provides a great takeaway service for those who want to make the most of the pier and beach while drinking and snacking . For a more formal meal by the water in elegant settings , reserve a beachfront table ( or luxurious room !) at The Royal Hotel ( www . theroyalhotel . com ). Choose from the Boathouse bar and terrace to take in glorious sea views and enjoy a range of tempting dishes crafted from the finest locally sourced ingredients , or dine at The Quarterdeck restaurant which specialises in fresh seafood from the surrounding shores . Menus are complemented by an extensive range of both local and international wines , and beers brewed just a few miles away by Britain ’ s oldest brewer , Shepherd Neame .
Of course , it ’ s not just our glorious beaches that provide waterside bliss in Kent during summertime . Arguably Kent ’ s most famous lake , Bewl Water ( www . bewlwater . co . uk ) in Lamberhurst provides a tranquil and serene environment for those of us wanting to escape to the countryside and experience the best of natural beauty . The Waterfront Café is a fabulous little spot to enjoy refreshments at the lake or a great pitstop after a relaxing walk or exciting activity , of which there are plenty to take part in . From fishing to the inflatable aqua park , a day at Bewl Water will be one to delight all , no matter what age or interest .
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