Topping the Sunday Times ‘Best Places To Live’ 2024, and Time Out’s 2025 list, Folkestone has quickly gained a reputation as one of the UK’s most desirable spots. Set between rolling countryside and the coast, and only around an hour from London, it’s a picturesque seaside town with plenty of appeal. A travel TikTok account recently described it as the “most beautiful seaside in the UK.” In the video caption, the creator asked, “Is this the cutest seaside town in the UK?” and many agreed in the comment section.
The seaside town has over 50 independent shops. Much of this can be found in the Creative Quarter, a vibrant area filled with colourful storefronts, vintage boutiques and one-of-a-kind galleries. Visitors can browse everything from handmade jewellery and ceramics to independent books and locally produced food.
The Harbour Arm is another major draw. Once a working railway pier, it has been transformed into a lively destination packed with street food vendors, pop-up bars and outdoor seating overlooking the sea. On sunny days, it’s one of the best places in town to soak up the coastal atmosphere, with live music and events often adding to the buzz.
Folkestone’s beach and coastline also play a huge role in its growing popularity. The mix of sandy stretches and pebbled shorelines offers something for everyone.
The recently regenerated seafront has made the area even more appealing with landscaped promenades and public art installations enhancing the natural beauty.
Additionally, the seaside town has become known for its thriving arts scene with regular exhibitions, festivals and creative projects taking place throughout the year.
The Folkestone Artworks, for example, is the UK’s largest exhibition of contemporary art outdoors in an urban setting. It includes 74 works by world-renowned artists like Antony Gormley, Tracey Emin, and Lubaina Himid scattered across the town, harbour, and cliffs.
One TripAdvisor user wrote about the Creative Quarter: “Today was my first visit to Folkestone, and we wanted to visit the Creative Quarter. Was not disappointed. Fabulous sunny day, helps of course.
“Cobbled streets and set on a hill. So might not be great for some. Wonderful galleries and fabulous eateries. Quirky shops and friendly people. I will visit again. We found a fabulous Emporium that I will for sure return once I have finished decorating.”
Someone else from London said they’ve changed their opinion of the town. “Nice area with lots of quirky individual shops, nice pubs, a few restaurants and plenty of seafood outlets. Well worth a visit for a day.”
Another visitor added: “Very nice street to visit while in Folkestone. It is one street that goes down a hill down to the harbour. You will find lots of interesting independent shops, galleries and cafes.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
