As the season changes to Spring, many Londoners might be considering a break from the city and heading towards the coast. If you’re not drawn to popular spots like Brighton or Bournemouth and are looking for something a bit different, there’s a hidden gem just 58 minutes from London by train. This town boasts not one, not two, but five distinct beaches to explore.
Folkestone in Kent is the perfect destination, offering four beaches within the town itself—Folkestone Beach (also known as Outer Harbour Beach), Sunny Sands, Mermaid Beach, and The Warren. Plus, there’s also Sandgate, a nearby village with its own beach.
According to Tripadvisor reviews, visitors have praised the area as a ‘true gem’, describing it as ‘enchanting’, ‘the best’, ‘peaceful’, and ‘picturesque’. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a peaceful escape, Folkestone has something for everyone.
Best of Deals
For those looking to save on their getaway, here are some exclusive deals:
- Bannatyne Spa: Spa day for two with treatments, lunch & prosecco — save up to 57% off.
- Mystery Escape: Hotel stay with return flights from as low as £92pp — save on worldwide holiday packages.
- Beach Retreat (Lanzarote): 4* Lanzarote beach holiday with flights — save up to 58%.
These offers could make your trip more affordable without compromising on quality.
Which Folkestone Beach is Best?
Katie Boyden, a former reporter who now lives in the area, shares her top tips for visiting Folkestone. She suggests that if you’re not a fan of pebble or shingle beaches, then Sunny Sands is the place to go, as it’s the only sandy beach among the five. However, she warns that it’s also the busiest, so it’s worth considering this if you’re visiting during peak summer months.
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique and a good spot for swimming, Mermaid Beach might be your ideal choice. Named after the rock formations that resemble a mermaid’s tail, this beach is also a sea defence. Katie says, “My favourite is Mermaid Beach, as the shape of the rocks means it’s a bit sheltered and you don’t get affected by the tide/current while swimming as much.”
Folkestone Beach, located next to the south pier of Folkestone Harbour, is often less crowded than others due to its industrial surroundings. A boardwalk made from old railway sleepers runs along the beach, making it easier for visitors to walk without stepping on the shingle.
For those seeking natural beauty, The Warren is an excellent choice. Adjacent to The Warren Country Park, it features dramatic cliffs and is known for fossil hunting and exploring rock pools.
Sandgate, another option, offers beautiful views and is close to the village high street. It’s generally a great spot for relaxation or swimming, though visitors should note that in May 2025, a warning was issued about pollution from sewage, so it’s wise to check before visiting.
Things to Do in Folkestone
Beyond the beaches, there’s plenty to see and do in Folkestone. According to Katie, a stroll down the main road in Sandgate is highly recommended. It’s home to lovely pubs, tap rooms, wine bars, cafes, and indie or vintage shops.
In Folkestone town itself, Steep Street is a must-visit for coffee lovers. The café is known for its incredible cakes and delicious coffee.
For those who enjoy walking, the Harbour Arm and Old High Street are both lovely spots. The latter is packed with independent businesses, bars, and restaurants. If you’re looking for an alfresco meal, Kingsnorth Gardens is an ideal location for a picnic.
Katie also recommends the coastal walk or cycle route between Folkestone and Dover. It’s approximately 10 miles long and offers stunning views of France across the Channel, the White Cliffs of Dover, and the White Horse etched into the hills above Folkestone.
How to Get to Folkestone from London
Folkestone has two train stations: Folkestone West and Folkestone Central. Folkestone West is the quicker option, with a high-speed train from St Pancras taking just 56 minutes. However, the same journey to Folkestone Central takes about 58 minutes. While the faster train may cost a bit more, slower options from Charing Cross, St Pancras, or Cannon Street take around an hour and a half.
Katie suggests heading to Folkestone Central for visitors, as Folkestone West is mainly used by commuters who drive and park there. However, there’s a catch: despite its name, Folkestone Central isn’t actually very central to the town. It’s about a five to 10-minute walk to the high street and roughly 25 minutes to the beach, which involves navigating a zig-zag path down the cliff.
This article was first published on June 20, 2025.
Have you visited Folkestone before? Share your favorite spot below!
