CREATIVE QUARTER
A K DOLVEN , OUT OF TUNE , COMMISSIONED BY CREATIVE FOLKESTONE
© Matt Rowe
MARLEYS
There is , of course , so much more to Folkestone than just the seafront and harbour . The creative vibe that embraces the arts scene in all its glory stretches from the ocean and floods into the town coming together as Creative Folkestone . Known as the town ’ s ‘ cultural heart ’, venture up the iconic Old High Street , one of the most photographed streets in the South East , and you will find the plethora that is Folkestone ’ s Creative Quarter – a community of independent shops , artists and makers . From art galleries , jewellers and vintage stores to artisan food shops , interior havens and gift shops of all shapes and sizes , any visitor will be consumed with the sheer abundance of exciting creativity and arts on offer here . Having restored 90 buildings and now also looking after around 80 flats , 115 studios and offices and over 50 shops , Creative Folkestone has made the town a hive of activity . Visitors can enjoy watching artists paint in their galleries , sign up to classes run by skilled makers , or visit the bars which transform into micro-performance spaces .
As well as plenty of creative businesses , the Old High Street is home to lots of fabulous places to eat and drink . Steep Street Coffee is a must-go ; with walls lined with shelves of books from floor to ceiling , it is a lovely spot to enjoy coffee and cake . For those wanting more of a meal , step into Marleys who serve exquisite dishes inspired by Kentish produce and famously good pancake brunches ; pay a visit to El Cortador serving authentic tapas in Spanish style . Whatever your taste buds might be craving , Folkestone is certain to have the answer . With coffee shops aplenty , you will not be short on cosy corners to catch up in either , whether that be with friends or simply yourself . One such place is Folkelore , specialising in locally roasted organic coffee , award-winning cocktails , mouthwatering food throughout the day and into the evening , and free weekly events .
Creative Folkestone is also responsible for several initiatives , events and exhibitions that honour the arts . One such example is Folkestone Artworks , the UK ’ s largest urban contemporary art exhibition , which is free and accessible 24 hours a day , 365 days a year . Sited outdoors around the town and harbour , the artworks pop up in both scenic and surprising locations . The changing exhibition , currently consisting of 74 artworks by 46 artists – including Tracey Emin , Antony Gormley , Yoko Ono , Mark Wallinger , Cornelia Parker , Bill Woodrow , Michael Craig- Martin and Ian Hamilton Finlay – offers an experience like nowhere else in the world : great contemporary art with an invitation to explore , examine and understand the town ’ s geography , history and potential future .
As well as visual arts , Creative Folkestone embraces performing arts , comedy , music and more , not only through events held at its bars and eateries , but at the Quarterhouse . Presenting a regular programme , he Quarterhouse venue welcomes creatives and performers from both afar and closer to home , including the people of Folkestone themselves , to help continue to make creativity happen .
While staycationing in Folkestone , there are some truly wonderful places to stay . Whether that be in a fabulous self-catering holiday home via Bloom Stays , or at one of the town ’ s treasured hotels and B & Bs . One such seaside retreat is The View hotel . With rooms tastefully modernised while retaining many period features of this beautiful building , expect the utmost comfort , spectacular sea views and a good night ' s sleep after a day of exploring this vibrant town .
97