GUIDE
BETTESHANGER COUNTRY PARK
Once again receiving rightful praise from The Times as one of the best places to live in the UK in 2026, delightful Deal has undergone quite the transformation from a small fishing settlement to a trendy seaside bolthole. Now boasting a swanky high street, unmistakable seaside spirit and the best of Kent’ s coast and countryside, it’ s easy to see why.
First mentioned as a village in the Domesday Book of 1086 as‘ Addelam’, by the 16th century Deal was an integral port for shipping and shipbuilding despite lacking a traditional harbour. It was then under Henry VIII that the town’ s strategic importance grew, as remarkable fortresses took shape along its shores.
Home to the last remaining fully intact leisure pier in the county and with the town’ s famed Middle Street noted as a conservation area for its remaining architecture, Deal wears its history well. Paired with a friendly buzz, innovative creatives, an explorative but locally rooted dining scene and a relaxed air that offers instant ease, there’ s every reason to linger a while.
“ Living in Deal is idyllic- the town is so full of charm in every way. With the beautiful seafront in one direction and the countryside the other, I love to visit the beach, watch the sea and walk through the conservation areas, or put my wellies on and explore the woods! Deal isn’ t just visually beautiful either, it has a bustling community with people from all walks of life, which is where the real character comes from.”
TYLER CHRISTY, HEAD OF BETTESHANGER COUNTRY PARK
Top
Picks
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TOP BRUNCH THE LANE
Relaxed, trendy restaurant known for its unique afternoon teas and hearty breakfasts, The Lane serves up a range of all-day eats alongside delicious cocktails, cakes and family-friendly bites.
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TOP CULTURE KENT MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE Fantastic museum exploring the illustrious history of the moving image from candlelit performances to the arrival of modern cinema. Complete with a world-class collection, expertly curated exhibitions and a popular library. |
TOP HERITAGE DEAL TIMEBALL TOWER
Grade II listed building standing as a proud reminder of Deal’ s importance to the navy in Georgian times. Now a museum exhibiting the tower’ s history and its use for navigation, signalling and precision electrical timekeeping.
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58 • www. insidekent. co. uk |
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