Folkestone

What does Folkestone offer?

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Kent, Folkestone offers the perfect blend of seaside charm and vibrant culture. This bustling town is a hidden gem, boasting a rich history, stunning natural landscapes and a thriving arts scene. From the winding cobbled streets of the Creative Quarter to the breathtaking views from the Leas promenade, Folkestone invites you to explore its many delights and create lasting memories. A visit to Folkestone would be incomplete without experiencing its glorious beaches and harbour. Stroll along the newly developed Harbour Arm, dotted with chic eateries, bars and pop-up events, and savour the panoramic views of the Channel. Immerse yourself in local history at the Folkestone Museum, or take a leisurely walk through the Lower Leas Coastal Park, offering lush green spaces and enchanting woodlands. With an abundance of attractions, Folkestone guarantees a memorable experience for all ages and interests.

Top attractions in Folkestone

1. Leas Cliff Hall: An iconic entertainment venue, Leas Cliff Hall boasts stunning views of the English Channel and offers a diverse range of performances, from live music and comedy to theatre and family shows.

2. Lower Leas Coastal Park: This award-winning park features beautiful landscaped gardens, open grass areas, and a large adventure playground. Perfect for a family day out, the park also offers direct access to the beach and the popular Zig Zag Path.

3. Creative Quarter: Located in the heart of Folkestone's Old High Street, the Creative Quarter is a vibrant hub of independent shops, art galleries, and studios. It is an ideal place to find unique gifts, enjoy delicious food, or simply soak up the artistic atmosphere.

4. Folkestone Harbour Arm: A revitalised historic harbour, the Harbour Arm is a lively destination with a variety of food and drink outlets, outdoor entertainment, and stunning sea views. It is also home to the Folkestone Harbour Arm Lighthouse, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the coastline.

5. The Leas Promenade: This picturesque cliff-top promenade offers sweeping views of the coastline and the English Channel. With its Victorian bandstand, colourful flower beds, and pristine lawns, the Leas Promenade is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Best areas to live in Folkestone

1. Sandgate Village: This charming coastal area offers stunning sea views, quaint shops, and a close-knit community. With its historic architecture, vibrant high street, and popular seafront promenade, Sandgate Village is a sought-after location for those seeking a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle.

2. The Leas: Renowned for its beautiful Victorian architecture and breathtaking coastal views, The Leas is a prestigious address in Folkestone. It boasts an elegant promenade, numerous parks, and easy access to the town centre, making it a prime location for families and professionals alike.

3. West End: This affluent area is home to some of Folkestone's most exclusive properties. With its tree-lined avenues, impressive period homes, and excellent schools, the West End offers an idyllic suburban lifestyle within easy reach of the town centre and major transport links.

4. Cheriton: This popular residential area offers a mix of traditional and modern homes, suitable for families and professionals. With excellent schools, parks, and local amenities, Cheriton is a desirable location for those seeking a well-rounded lifestyle.

5. Coolinge Lane: This sought-after area boasts impressive detached and semi-detached homes, many with large gardens and period features. Its proximity to excellent schools, parks, and local amenities makes Coolinge Lane an ideal choice for families.

6. Hythe: This picturesque coastal town offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, with its bustling high street, attractive seafront, and range of boutiques and restaurants. Hythe's range of housing options caters to various budgets, making it a popular choice for those looking to reside within the Folkestone and Hythe district.

7. Hawkinge: This thriving village offers a range of properties, from modern developments to charming period cottages. With its excellent schools, leisure facilities, and strong community spirit, Hawkinge is an ideal location for families and those seeking a village lifestyle.

8. Capel-le-Ferne: Nestled on the cliffs overlooking the English Channel, this picturesque village offers stunning sea views and a peaceful atmosphere. With its range of charming properties and strong sense of community, Capel-le-Ferne makes for a desirable location for those seeking a tranquil coastal lifestyle.

9. Seabrook: This coastal area is popular for its range of modern and period homes, many with sea views, and its proximity to the seafront and local amenities. Seabrook is an attractive location for those seeking a coastal lifestyle with easy access to both Folkestone and Hythe town centres.

Best things about living in Folkestone

1. Stunning Coastal Views: Folkestone boasts a picturesque coastline with breathtaking views of the English Channel. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the promenade, explore the historic harbour, or relax on the sandy beaches while soaking in the natural beauty of this seaside town.

2. Creative Quarter: This vibrant area is home to an array of independent shops, galleries, and studios. It's the perfect place to find unique gifts, support local artists, and immerse yourself in the thriving arts scene. Regular events and exhibitions ensure there's always something new to experience.

3. Lower Leas Coastal Park: A beautifully landscaped park situated between Folkestone town centre and the seafront. This award-winning green space offers a variety of recreational activities, including a large children's play area, an amphitheatre, and picturesque gardens. It is also an ideal spot for picnics and outdoor events during the warmer months.

4. Excellent Transport Links: Folkestone & Hythe enjoys excellent connectivity, with easy access to London via the High Speed 1 rail service or the M20 motorway. The Eurotunnel Le Shuttle terminal is also nearby, providing convenient connections to mainland Europe, making it an ideal base for both business and leisure travel.

5. Rich History and Heritage: Folkestone's fascinating history can be explored through its many historic sites, including the ancient Bayle and the First World War Memorial Arch. The town also hosts a variety of heritage events throughout the year, celebrating its diverse cultural background and engaging visitors in its unique story.

Drawbacks to living in Folkestone

1. Limited Employment Opportunities: Although Folkestone is a charming and picturesque town, it may not offer a wide range of job prospects. Industries are limited, and job seekers might need to commute to larger cities like London or Canterbury for better opportunities.

2. High Cost of Living: Folkestone's desirable location on the coast and its attractive amenities can lead to a higher cost of living. Property prices and rents are comparatively high in certain areas, as are costs for everyday goods and services.

3. Limited Entertainment Options: While Folkestone boasts a variety of local attractions and events, the town's entertainment scene can be limited compared to larger cities. Residents seeking a diverse array of nightlife, cultural experiences, and shopping options may need to travel further afield.

4. Congested Traffic: Due to its proximity to the Channel Tunnel and the Port of Dover, Folkestone can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak holiday times. This might lead to congestion and delays on local roads, as well as an increase in noise and air pollution.

5. Weather: Although the English weather is notoriously unpredictable, Folkestone, like many other coastal towns, can experience its fair share of wet and windy days. Residents should be prepared for the occasional stormy weather and the impact this may have on outdoor activities and travel plans.

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