OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
GUIDE
CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
RECULVER TOWERS AND ROMAN FORT This historic and regularly visited town landmark was first partly constructed by the Romans to defend against Saxon raids on the ‘ Saxon Shore ’ before becoming the site of an Anglo-Saxon monastery and later the parish church for Reculver , with the towers built in a remodelling of the church in the 12th century . While much of the site has been lost to coastal erosion , the towers and remains of the fort continue to be a pinnacle feature in Herne Bay ’ s skyline , attracting visitors year round to explore its history and breathtaking surroundings .
MUST-SHOP ARTISAN STORES
BEACH CREATIVE With uplifting the local community at the forefront , this inclusive arts hub and gallery welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities to express their creativity through a variety of welcoming exhibitions , events and workshops .
IVY MAY FASHION AND HOME Run by partners Kim and Mark , and named after their grandmothers , Ivy May is a beautiful home decor and fashion boutique dedicated to showcasing a thoughtfully curated range of stylish products .
THE LITTLE GREEN BOOKSHOP Quaint independent bookshop with shelves brimming with a wide range of fiction , non-fiction , children ’ s books , cards , stationery and local art . Alongside its impressive collection that ’ s bound to delight bookworms of all ages , the team also regularly hold themed events , workshops and book clubs .
DIVINE DINING
SALT AND LIGHT BISTRO Expect freshly prepared classic dishes that highlight an array of locally sourced produce from this independent gem . Owner and head chef Luke uses his wealth of experience in the kitchen to serve up a pleasing menu of simple food cooked with the very best ingredients . Diners can look forward to an intimate atmosphere and a warm welcome , always .
THE PIER CEYLON Prided on their prime seafront location and enticing menus that take inspiration from authentic Sri Lankan cuisine , The Pier Ceylon boast varied daytime and evening offerings that are certain to impress .
Pair a warm beverage with a flavourful Sri Lankan breakfast or opt for a crafted cocktail with a delicious curry or street-food style bites .
A CASA MIA Passionate about bringing a slice of Naples to the heart of Herne Bay , the team at A Casa Mia (‘ at my house ’) aim to offer locals a comfortable setting and friendly service , as well as using traditional Italian methods to create mouthwatering dishes that sing with authentic flavours .
Salt and Light ( top left ), The Pier Ceylon ( bottom left )
SEASIDE MUSEUM Managed and run by volunteers since 2015 , Herne Bay ’ s Seaside Museum offers visitors a captivating insight into the past of the coastal resort through its intriguing collections of artefacts , photographs , local art and more .
THE KING ’ S HALL Championing local talent and dedicated to providing a vibrant cultural space for growth and expression , The King ’ s Hall is a beautiful theatre and events space located right upon the seafront . Look forward to a diverse calendar of live music productions , drama showcases and community events .
OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
HERNE BAY PIER The town ’ s most recognised attribute , the history of Herne Bay ’ s pier spans across decades , with its uses , original structures and meaning continuing to evolve throughout the ebb and flow of time . Today , the pier buzzes with activity , seaside fun and nostalgia , inviting families to enjoy a traditional day out beside the sea with retro fairground attractions , classic street food and retail huts waiting to be explored .
HERNE BAY SEAFRONT Surrounded by an abundance of grand Victorian architecture and seafront manicured greenspaces , this sand and shingled beach , decorated with brightly coloured beach huts and an imposing Victorian pier , is a particularly spectacular site to be held during a seasonal sunrise . Summer seaside activities are also popular here including crabbing , cycling and watersports .
RECULVER COUNTRY PARK Whether you opt to set off on the the Saxon Shore Trail along the clifftops , cycle through the Green Flag awarded Oyster Bay Trail , or simply embark on a leisurely ramble to seek out the many species of wildlife that call this park their home , the 26 hectares that make up this country park are an adventure not to be missed .
Herne Bay Seafront ( top right ), The Little Green Bookshop ( bottom right )
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