Kent Staycation 2019 | Page 80

Coast Another contender on the food front and an absolute must for seafood fans, Whitstable is so synonymous with oysters that it hosts a whole festival dedicated to the marvelous molluscs every July. To sample some of the best, head to Wheelers Oyster Bar; the oldest restaurant in town, this diminutive dining spot with a candyfloss-pink frontage has been serving oysters to its loyal customers since 1856. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the former cocklers' huts on the shore by the oyster fishery and spend the low-tide hours watching expert collectors pick oysters from the beds out front. If seafood’s not your thing, never fear, Whitstable is awash with artisan delis, wine bars, cheese shops and ice cream parlours, so there’s something to suit every palate. Of course, no introduction to Kent’s incredible coastline would be complete without a mention of the county’s most iconic landmark: The White Cliffs of Dover. This remarkable symbol of wartime defense reaches a lofty height of 350 feet and owes its striking appearance to a composition of chalk accented by streaks of black flint. With far-reaching views giving a glimpse of France on the clearest of days, wonderful walking throughout every season, a world of wildlife and tea rooms marking your route, no trip to Kent’s coast is complete without taking it in. Whitstable Beach Huts White Cliffs of Dover 80