Kent Staycation [ 2024 ] | Page 19

COAST

COAST

Kent ’ s aesthetic allure proudly boasts a staggering 350 miles of glorious coastline , surpassing all other counties in England with its multitude of Blue Flag beaches and expansive ocean vistas .
he diversity of coastal environments across the

Tcounty is nothing short of breathtaking . Notably , Dungeness , situated at the southernmost point in Kent , holds the unique distinction of being Britain ’ s sole officially recognised desert . This shingle beach , adorned with natural landscapes of shingle , gravel and shells , serves as a sanctuary for a fascinating array of rare bird and plant life - not to mention some of the country ’ s most unique luxury holiday homes .

Undeniably the jewel in Kent ’ s coastal crown , Thanet unfolds along a 19-mile coastline embracing Margate , Broadstairs and Ramsgate . This coastal haven hosts 15 sandy beaches , six of which proudly bear the Blue Flag distinction , and an additional four have earned Seaside Awards – a truly impressive feat . For those seeking a seaside adventure , Joss Bay , a mere 30-minute stroll from Broadstairs ’ town centre , entices with chalk cliffs , a shallow bay for swimming and a surf school catering to wave enthusiasts . Meanwhile , Margate Main Sands beckons with its lively atmosphere , offering both nostalgic excitement and a tranquil slice of cultural indulgence with the arty town laying just behind .
Folkestone , a cultural hotspot with a thriving creative scene , epitomises community vibrancy through a collective of independent businesses that have revitalised once empty spaces . Echoing this trendiness is Deal , a coastal gem in Kent recently acclaimed as one of the best places to live in Britain . For seafood aficionados , Whitstable stands synonymous with oysters , hosting an annual festival dedicated to these marvellous molluscs every July . Completing the coastal panorama is the iconic landmark of Kent , the White Cliffs of Dover . Rising majestically to a height of 350 feet , these cliffs , adorned with streaks of black flint against chalk , symbolise heroic wartime defence and offer far-reaching views , even providing glimpses of France on the clearest of days .
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