Kevin's Whitstable Guidebook
Restaurants
A selection of some of our favourite places to eat
Lovely dog-friendly restaurant located in Harbour Street serving French dishes as well as seafood fresh from the harbour! Booking recommended on 01227 265337
57 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Birdies restaurant
41 Harbour StLovely dog-friendly restaurant located in Harbour Street serving French dishes as well as seafood fresh from the harbour! Booking recommended on 01227 265337
A small daytime cafe and pop up evening kitchen based in Harbour Street (a little further along from Birdies). There aren’t many tables but if you have a well-behaved furry friend you can usually squeeze them in as well… When the weather’s also behaving you can sit in their cosy garden. The Sunday Roast is highly recommended, and bookings can be made on 01227276941 or emailing Michelle@cafeandkitchen.co.uk https://www.cafeandkitchen.co.uk/
11 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Cafe + Kitchen
61 Harbour StA small daytime cafe and pop up evening kitchen based in Harbour Street (a little further along from Birdies). There aren’t many tables but if you have a well-behaved furry friend you can usually squeeze them in as well… When the weather’s also behaving you can sit in their cosy garden. The Sunday Roast is highly recommended, and bookings can be made on 01227276941 or emailing Michelle@cafeandkitchen.co.uk https://www.cafeandkitchen.co.uk/
The East Kent is a recently refurbished, very welcoming pub with great food and a good selection of drinks including wine menu. They sometimes organise special food nights so it’s worth checking before you visit. Tables can be booked on 01227 770 773. Dogs are welcome. https://theeastkentpub.com
25 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
East Kent
72 Oxford StThe East Kent is a recently refurbished, very welcoming pub with great food and a good selection of drinks including wine menu. They sometimes organise special food nights so it’s worth checking before you visit. Tables can be booked on 01227 770 773. Dogs are welcome. https://theeastkentpub.com
In the High Street, Samphire is an independent, family run Bistro in the heart of Whitstable. They are proud to showcase the best seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms, allotments, fisherman and producers in Kent and the South East. http://www.samphirewhitstable.co.uk/
96 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Samphire
4 High StIn the High Street, Samphire is an independent, family run Bistro in the heart of Whitstable. They are proud to showcase the best seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms, allotments, fisherman and producers in Kent and the South East. http://www.samphirewhitstable.co.uk/
Located in the High Street, Farm & Harper is a family & dog-friendly restaurant and café open for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Booking is advisable at weekends on 01227 264091 or on their website (https://farmandharperwhitstable.co.uk/)
52 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Farm & Harper
25 High StLocated in the High Street, Farm & Harper is a family & dog-friendly restaurant and café open for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Booking is advisable at weekends on 01227 264091 or on their website (https://farmandharperwhitstable.co.uk/)
Highly recommended tapas restaurant between Birdies & Café+Kitchen. Book a table on 01227 273 373. If you ask nicely during lunchtime they may let you bring in your dog but generally dogs aren’t allowed due to space. https://www.harbourstreettapas.com/
62 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Harbour Street Tapas
48 Harbour StHighly recommended tapas restaurant between Birdies & Café+Kitchen. Book a table on 01227 273 373. If you ask nicely during lunchtime they may let you bring in your dog but generally dogs aren’t allowed due to space. https://www.harbourstreettapas.com/
Fairly new restaurant in Harbour Street serving pizza & pasta. It’s a very friendly place, dogs are also welcome and as it’s not licensed, they have a bring your own booze policy (corkage charges payable). Bookings can be made on 01227 908084.
https://sale-pepe-whitstable.co.uk
13 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Sale&Pepe Pizza and Kitchen
15 Harbour StFairly new restaurant in Harbour Street serving pizza & pasta. It’s a very friendly place, dogs are also welcome and as it’s not licensed, they have a bring your own booze policy (corkage charges payable). Bookings can be made on 01227 908084.
https://sale-pepe-whitstable.co.uk
This is just toward the harbour, located in Horsebridge Road just metres off the beach. This is one of our favourite places to eat in Whitstable with great service and even better food (and dog-friendly)! To book a table call 01227 773113.
72 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Pearson's Arms Pub
Horsebridge RoadThis is just toward the harbour, located in Horsebridge Road just metres off the beach. This is one of our favourite places to eat in Whitstable with great service and even better food (and dog-friendly)! To book a table call 01227 773113.
If you love your seafood, then you will not be disappointed with The Lobster Shack. It’s situated a stone’s throw from the beach on the East Quay of the harbour. Go through the harbour and follow the road that winds left towards the seafront. Order your favourite dish and wash it down with one of the local beers or a glass of local wine. Dogs welcome. https://www.thelobstershack.co.uk/
67 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Lobster Shack
EAST QUAYIf you love your seafood, then you will not be disappointed with The Lobster Shack. It’s situated a stone’s throw from the beach on the East Quay of the harbour. Go through the harbour and follow the road that winds left towards the seafront. Order your favourite dish and wash it down with one of the local beers or a glass of local wine. Dogs welcome. https://www.thelobstershack.co.uk/
A shack on the beach open year round in all weather, great for breakfast, fish & chips, coffee, tea but most importantly oysters.
24 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Forge
1 Sea WallA shack on the beach open year round in all weather, great for breakfast, fish & chips, coffee, tea but most importantly oysters.
Whitstable Oyster Company
Horsebridge RoadWheelers Oyster Bar
8 High StFamous and award winning for its excellent sea food tapas. It's past the harbour and along Tankerton beach past the iconic Tankerton beach huts to get there. Booking advised
83 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Jojos
2 Herne Bay RdFamous and award winning for its excellent sea food tapas. It's past the harbour and along Tankerton beach past the iconic Tankerton beach huts to get there. Booking advised
In Seasalter, the Sportsman is a destination gastro pub with a Michelin star. It has been voted 'Best gastro pub in the country" - make sure you book a table well in advance!
87 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Sportsman
Faversham RoadIn Seasalter, the Sportsman is a destination gastro pub with a Michelin star. It has been voted 'Best gastro pub in the country" - make sure you book a table well in advance!
Seven Seas Fish Bar & Restaurant
24 Canterbury RdGreat fish & chips, eat in or takeaway
Cafes
Recently extended, well established and very popular café in Nelson Road. It’s just a few meters away from the beach so you can walk off any excesses…. Worth booking if there’s a few of you wanting breakfast at the weekend. 01227 771707
51 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Windy Corner Stores & Cafe
110 Nelson RdRecently extended, well established and very popular café in Nelson Road. It’s just a few meters away from the beach so you can walk off any excesses…. Worth booking if there’s a few of you wanting breakfast at the weekend. 01227 771707
We love this place in Oxford Street. The Umbrella Café CIC is a social enterprise where everyone is welcome. They are fully accessible, child-friendly and dog-friendly too. Delicious and nutritious food is made in their own kitchen, with veggie, vegan and gluten-free choices. They’re fully licensed and have a lovely garden, shared with the Whitstable Umbrella Centre.
https://theumbrellacafe.co.uk/
13 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Umbrella Cafe CIC
10 Oxford StWe love this place in Oxford Street. The Umbrella Café CIC is a social enterprise where everyone is welcome. They are fully accessible, child-friendly and dog-friendly too. Delicious and nutritious food is made in their own kitchen, with veggie, vegan and gluten-free choices. They’re fully licensed and have a lovely garden, shared with the Whitstable Umbrella Centre.
https://theumbrellacafe.co.uk/
Grain & Hearth is a lovely artisan bakery and cafe. It’s tucked away in a courtyard just by the Co-op in Oxford Street (just opposite Potato Tomato). Not the cheapest place but the produce is great and highly recommended. They’ve recently introduced Friday night pizza nights from 4-8pm – not every Friday so it’s worth checking on their website at https://www.grainandhearth.co.uk/pizza-nights.
36 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Grain & Hearth Bakery
52 Oxford StGrain & Hearth is a lovely artisan bakery and cafe. It’s tucked away in a courtyard just by the Co-op in Oxford Street (just opposite Potato Tomato). Not the cheapest place but the produce is great and highly recommended. They’ve recently introduced Friday night pizza nights from 4-8pm – not every Friday so it’s worth checking on their website at https://www.grainandhearth.co.uk/pizza-nights.
A bar and tearoom set back from West Beach and a popular stop off on the walk from Whitstable to Seasalter and beyond. Seating inside and out but check opening times, they close November-February. https://westbeachwhitstable.business.site/
West Beach Caravan Site
Island WallA bar and tearoom set back from West Beach and a popular stop off on the walk from Whitstable to Seasalter and beyond. Seating inside and out but check opening times, they close November-February. https://westbeachwhitstable.business.site/
Opened in 2015 by a local couple with a menu which draws on Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern flavours. The Bubble Café is on the beachfront just before Tankerton Slopes – seats by the window have a fantastic view out over the bay and the Street. https://www.thebubblewhitstable.co.uk/
8 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Bubble Cafe
Beach WalkOpened in 2015 by a local couple with a menu which draws on Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern flavours. The Bubble Café is on the beachfront just before Tankerton Slopes – seats by the window have a fantastic view out over the bay and the Street. https://www.thebubblewhitstable.co.uk/
Perfectly situated in the Harbour by the quayside this is a great place to get a drink and watch the world go by. https://www.harbourgardencafe.co.uk/
14 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Harbour Garden Cafe
Perfectly situated in the Harbour by the quayside this is a great place to get a drink and watch the world go by. https://www.harbourgardencafe.co.uk/
Friendly café in Gladstone Road, just off the High Street (look out for Barclays Bank). Hearty no frills home cooked food. Open for breakfast and lunch. Pies, quiches and seasonal specials! Amazing homemade cakes and coffee. Dogs welcome upstairs and in the garden
6 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Howard's Kitchen
Gladstone RoadFriendly café in Gladstone Road, just off the High Street (look out for Barclays Bank). Hearty no frills home cooked food. Open for breakfast and lunch. Pies, quiches and seasonal specials! Amazing homemade cakes and coffee. Dogs welcome upstairs and in the garden
Lovely little coffee shop / café run by a really friendly couple serving good food. It is just by Rock Lodge on Oxford Street. Dogs welcome.
Gilberts of Whitstable
19 Oxford StLovely little coffee shop / café run by a really friendly couple serving good food. It is just by Rock Lodge on Oxford Street. Dogs welcome.
A 100% vegan eatery on Oxford Street (3 minute walk). Open for brunch and lunch 5 days as well as Friday and Saturday evenings. The food is great and well worth a visit. Booking advisable on 07708 821982 www.potatotomato.co.uk
Potato Tomato - The Eatery
A 100% vegan eatery on Oxford Street (3 minute walk). Open for brunch and lunch 5 days as well as Friday and Saturday evenings. The food is great and well worth a visit. Booking advisable on 07708 821982 www.potatotomato.co.uk
Sightseeing
A short walk from the cottage, West Beach has a charm of its own, a great place to start a beach walk to Seasalter or beyond or stay and chill on the beach (maybe popping to the welcoming cafe on the caravan site for a tea or something stronger)
9 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
West Beach
Unnamed RoadA short walk from the cottage, West Beach has a charm of its own, a great place to start a beach walk to Seasalter or beyond or stay and chill on the beach (maybe popping to the welcoming cafe on the caravan site for a tea or something stronger)
Whitstable Harbour
Tankerton Beach
Marine ParadeTea room, regular exhibitions and events, gardens and a children's play area
42 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Whitstable Castle & Gardens
Tower HillTea room, regular exhibitions and events, gardens and a children's play area
A selection of huts in the harbour which are usually open at weekends (weather permitting) https://harbourmarketwhitstable.co.uk/
31 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Whitstable Fish Market
A selection of huts in the harbour which are usually open at weekends (weather permitting) https://harbourmarketwhitstable.co.uk/
Reculver Towers are a striking pair of 12th-century church towers set on the edge of a cliff. The only part of the church remaining, preserved as a landmark for sailors, they are visible for miles around. But there are even earlier ruins here; the church was built in the centre of an old Roman fort, dating from around 200AD. Parts of the east wall are still visible today, along with the ruins of a small guard chamber. Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk
53 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Izikhumbuzo zase Reculver neFort Roman
Reculver RoadReculver Towers are a striking pair of 12th-century church towers set on the edge of a cliff. The only part of the church remaining, preserved as a landmark for sailors, they are visible for miles around. But there are even earlier ruins here; the church was built in the centre of an old Roman fort, dating from around 200AD. Parts of the east wall are still visible today, along with the ruins of a small guard chamber. Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk
The pier, once one of the longest in the UK but later shortened, had been suffering from neglect but, following the demolition of its 1970’s pavilion, has had a new lease of life. Traditional rides, a Helter Skelter, stalls, amusements, a retail village with food and drink huts (fresh smoothie, craft beer from Beer on the Pier or Champagne and oysters anyone?), now ensure there are plenty of visitors to the landmark. http://www.hernebaypier.org/ Some couples visiting the pier even tie the knot - https://www.akentishceremony.com/venues/beach-hut-weddings/
Why not try a spot of crabbing off the pier?
27 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Herne Bay Pier
Pier AvenueThe pier, once one of the longest in the UK but later shortened, had been suffering from neglect but, following the demolition of its 1970’s pavilion, has had a new lease of life. Traditional rides, a Helter Skelter, stalls, amusements, a retail village with food and drink huts (fresh smoothie, craft beer from Beer on the Pier or Champagne and oysters anyone?), now ensure there are plenty of visitors to the landmark. http://www.hernebaypier.org/ Some couples visiting the pier even tie the knot - https://www.akentishceremony.com/venues/beach-hut-weddings/
Why not try a spot of crabbing off the pier?
In Herne Bay in the 1990s, the town’s flood defences were deemed inadequate and an offshore breakwater, now known as Neptune’s Arm, was built to protect the most vulnerable areas.
A boardwalk along the arm allows walkers to venture out to the very tip. Best visited at high tide and best avoided in windy conditions, it’s a nice flat walk that isn’t as far as it looks and will reward you in the end with a very unusual viewpoint. You’ll also be able to get a better view of the pier head – the derelict end of the pier, which was cut off years ago.
The End Of Neptune's Arm
In Herne Bay in the 1990s, the town’s flood defences were deemed inadequate and an offshore breakwater, now known as Neptune’s Arm, was built to protect the most vulnerable areas.
A boardwalk along the arm allows walkers to venture out to the very tip. Best visited at high tide and best avoided in windy conditions, it’s a nice flat walk that isn’t as far as it looks and will reward you in the end with a very unusual viewpoint. You’ll also be able to get a better view of the pier head – the derelict end of the pier, which was cut off years ago.
Herne Bay’s Seaside Museum is home to collections including photographs of the town’s Victorian heyday, an old Punch and Judy set and traditional seaside holiday memorabilia. In 2015 the Herne Bay Museum Trust took over the management of the museum from the local council and it now hosts a changing programme of exhibitions, with national touring exhibitions, local art and photography and events for all.
6 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Seaside Museum Herne Bay
12 William StHerne Bay’s Seaside Museum is home to collections including photographs of the town’s Victorian heyday, an old Punch and Judy set and traditional seaside holiday memorabilia. In 2015 the Herne Bay Museum Trust took over the management of the museum from the local council and it now hosts a changing programme of exhibitions, with national touring exhibitions, local art and photography and events for all.
Set in Herne Common, Wildwood is a wild animal park with a difference. All the animals here are, or were, native to the British Isles, with more than 200 animals and birds at the 40-acre woodland site. Run by conservation charity the Wildwood Trust, there is everything from large European brown bears and bison to mice and stoats. With a strong focus on education and conservation, a visit can feel like a stroll through the woods – albeit with glimpses of wolves, lynx and beavers along the way. There’s a good café and a superb play area for children.
64 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Wildwood Trust
Canterbury RoadSet in Herne Common, Wildwood is a wild animal park with a difference. All the animals here are, or were, native to the British Isles, with more than 200 animals and birds at the 40-acre woodland site. Run by conservation charity the Wildwood Trust, there is everything from large European brown bears and bison to mice and stoats. With a strong focus on education and conservation, a visit can feel like a stroll through the woods – albeit with glimpses of wolves, lynx and beavers along the way. There’s a good café and a superb play area for children.
Whitstable Town FC play at the Belmont. They are currently in the BetVictor Isthmian South East Football League competing against other local teams such as Herne Bay, Faversham Town and Ramsgate.
It’s a nice little ground (they’ve been at the Belmont since 1888), match entrance is £10 (£5 concessions) and the Handsome Sam micropub is on the way to/from the ground! https://www.whitstabletownfc.club/
Whitstable Town Football Club
Belmont RoadWhitstable Town FC play at the Belmont. They are currently in the BetVictor Isthmian South East Football League competing against other local teams such as Herne Bay, Faversham Town and Ramsgate.
It’s a nice little ground (they’ve been at the Belmont since 1888), match entrance is £10 (£5 concessions) and the Handsome Sam micropub is on the way to/from the ground! https://www.whitstabletownfc.club/
Just 30 minutes away from Whitstable by car or train, Ramsgate boasts a complex network of tunnels and caves. You can take a tour of the UK’s largest civilian wartime tunnels (http://www.ramsgatetunnels.org/) but it’s the less official row of smugglers’ caves built into the cliffs of Pegwell Bay that really gets the imagination going.
Pegwell Bay forms part of the Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve. It has stunning views of Sandwich and Deal to the west and the cliffs of Ramsgate to the east and is a great place for a bracing walk or cycle ride. Older visitors may be fascinated by the remains of the long abandoned hover port.
Ramsgate has great fish and chip shops in buckets and spades, but for something different head to Flavours by Kumar. Head chef Anil Kumar is an alumnus of London’s prestigious Cinnamon Club. Think fine dining with portions that won’t leave you prowling the seafront for fries later in the day.
Head off along the winding and easily accessible coastal path to take in everything from the quaint boats of Ramsgate Port to Broadstairs’ buzzing Viking Bay at the meagre cost of 40 minutes from your day. Watch out for the mist, though – it really does come out of nowhere.
89 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Ramsgate
Just 30 minutes away from Whitstable by car or train, Ramsgate boasts a complex network of tunnels and caves. You can take a tour of the UK’s largest civilian wartime tunnels (http://www.ramsgatetunnels.org/) but it’s the less official row of smugglers’ caves built into the cliffs of Pegwell Bay that really gets the imagination going.
Pegwell Bay forms part of the Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve. It has stunning views of Sandwich and Deal to the west and the cliffs of Ramsgate to the east and is a great place for a bracing walk or cycle ride. Older visitors may be fascinated by the remains of the long abandoned hover port.
Ramsgate has great fish and chip shops in buckets and spades, but for something different head to Flavours by Kumar. Head chef Anil Kumar is an alumnus of London’s prestigious Cinnamon Club. Think fine dining with portions that won’t leave you prowling the seafront for fries later in the day.
Head off along the winding and easily accessible coastal path to take in everything from the quaint boats of Ramsgate Port to Broadstairs’ buzzing Viking Bay at the meagre cost of 40 minutes from your day. Watch out for the mist, though – it really does come out of nowhere.
Arcades, independent cafés and unusual cultural attractions line the streets; thanks to the galleries, vintage shops and hipster hangouts, this arty town has been dubbed ‘Shoreditch-on-Sea’. It’s where creative city vibes meet coastal relaxation. A trip to Margate from Whitstable takes 20 mins by either car or train.
Head to the Turner Contemporary for a free fix of cutting-edge art or support local creatives at Kent’s oldest art gallery Lovelys. Then discover the Grade I-listed Shell Grotto, where 4.5 million shells make up its mosaic walls. Who created it and why? No one knows – that’s part of its magic.
Spend a penny at the arcades before braving the wilds of the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, the largest saltwater pool in the UK. Done your lengths? Head over to the Tom Thumb Theatre for eccentric acts and experimental live music.
Skip over to renovated retro theme park Dreamland for all the fun of the fair. Make a beeline for the scenic railway, test your balance in the colourful indoor Roller Room and take a selfie by the Hollywood-esque Dreamland sign. You know, just to prove you were there.
157 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
UpMargate
20 The CentreArcades, independent cafés and unusual cultural attractions line the streets; thanks to the galleries, vintage shops and hipster hangouts, this arty town has been dubbed ‘Shoreditch-on-Sea’. It’s where creative city vibes meet coastal relaxation. A trip to Margate from Whitstable takes 20 mins by either car or train.
Head to the Turner Contemporary for a free fix of cutting-edge art or support local creatives at Kent’s oldest art gallery Lovelys. Then discover the Grade I-listed Shell Grotto, where 4.5 million shells make up its mosaic walls. Who created it and why? No one knows – that’s part of its magic.
Spend a penny at the arcades before braving the wilds of the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, the largest saltwater pool in the UK. Done your lengths? Head over to the Tom Thumb Theatre for eccentric acts and experimental live music.
Skip over to renovated retro theme park Dreamland for all the fun of the fair. Make a beeline for the scenic railway, test your balance in the colourful indoor Roller Room and take a selfie by the Hollywood-esque Dreamland sign. You know, just to prove you were there.
Faversham - Discover the history of brewing at the Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre (https://www.shepherdneame.co.uk/visitor-centre). A guided tour will take you around the brewery to explain about the process of brewing, finished with a tasting to quench that thirst you built up walking. The Old Brewery Store is also a great venue for occasions and entertainment so do check out what is on.
9 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre
11 Court StFaversham - Discover the history of brewing at the Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre (https://www.shepherdneame.co.uk/visitor-centre). A guided tour will take you around the brewery to explain about the process of brewing, finished with a tasting to quench that thirst you built up walking. The Old Brewery Store is also a great venue for occasions and entertainment so do check out what is on.
The Cathedral is one of Canterbury’s main attractions, there has been a place of worship here for over 1500 years. This cathedral is one of the oldest in England, with a millennium of history. It is well known as the place Thomas Becket was murdered by knights of King Henry II. In its years it has survived fire, the Restoration and general modernity – and yet its gothic towers and beautiful stained-glass windows remain as impressive today as they were a thousand years ago.
364 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Canterbury Cathedral Archives
11 The PrecinctsThe Cathedral is one of Canterbury’s main attractions, there has been a place of worship here for over 1500 years. This cathedral is one of the oldest in England, with a millennium of history. It is well known as the place Thomas Becket was murdered by knights of King Henry II. In its years it has survived fire, the Restoration and general modernity – and yet its gothic towers and beautiful stained-glass windows remain as impressive today as they were a thousand years ago.
Canterbury - this beautiful garden is one of England’s oldest parks. If you want to pack a picnic and enjoy the great outdoors, there is nowhere prettier in the city to do so. Dotted around this glorious open space are beautiful curiosities – the Victorian Tower House with all its grandeur and Roman past, the beautiful scenes along the River Stour that runs alongside it and the Physic Garden, filled with all types of plants and flowers that were once used as medicine.
32 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Izityalo ze-Westgate
Saint Peter's StreetCanterbury - this beautiful garden is one of England’s oldest parks. If you want to pack a picnic and enjoy the great outdoors, there is nowhere prettier in the city to do so. Dotted around this glorious open space are beautiful curiosities – the Victorian Tower House with all its grandeur and Roman past, the beautiful scenes along the River Stour that runs alongside it and the Physic Garden, filled with all types of plants and flowers that were once used as medicine.
Charles Dickens used to retreat to Broadstairs when he needed to get his head down and write, and after a couple of lungfuls of salty sea air in this coastal Kent town, it’s easy to see why. Hemmed by pretty bays and beaches and framed by a backdrop of huge chalk cliffs and hidey-hole caves, it’s as postcard perfect as they come.
Head straight for Viking Bay beach. The town’s headline stretch is a pristine crescent of sand that shelters a tidal pool. Walk the clifftop Victoria Gardens and end up at Bleak House – the lofty spot where Dickens wrote ‘David Copperfield’.
The pub scene in Broadstairs boasts giant gastropubs like The Charles Dickens and quirky micropubs like The Chapel – a chapel-turned-bookshop-turned-alehouse that still somehow manages to be a bit of all three. For an A-Z of craft beers, try The Thirty-Nine Steps Brewhouse.
170 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Broadstairs
Charles Dickens used to retreat to Broadstairs when he needed to get his head down and write, and after a couple of lungfuls of salty sea air in this coastal Kent town, it’s easy to see why. Hemmed by pretty bays and beaches and framed by a backdrop of huge chalk cliffs and hidey-hole caves, it’s as postcard perfect as they come.
Head straight for Viking Bay beach. The town’s headline stretch is a pristine crescent of sand that shelters a tidal pool. Walk the clifftop Victoria Gardens and end up at Bleak House – the lofty spot where Dickens wrote ‘David Copperfield’.
The pub scene in Broadstairs boasts giant gastropubs like The Charles Dickens and quirky micropubs like The Chapel – a chapel-turned-bookshop-turned-alehouse that still somehow manages to be a bit of all three. For an A-Z of craft beers, try The Thirty-Nine Steps Brewhouse.
Pubs
On Canterbury Road, this is a lovely cosy and welcoming micropub in a former shop. Named after the owner's cat which died exactly four years before the pub's opening date of 4th November 2014. There is always a pale/light ale, a copper type ale and a stronger one, as well as local ciders, including fruit-flavoured ones. Old Hector is a regular house beer brewed exclusively for the pub by Four Candles. Wines, champagne, Prosecco, mead, soft drinks, tea, coffee and pub snacks are also offered.
11 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Handsome Sam
3 Canterbury RdOn Canterbury Road, this is a lovely cosy and welcoming micropub in a former shop. Named after the owner's cat which died exactly four years before the pub's opening date of 4th November 2014. There is always a pale/light ale, a copper type ale and a stronger one, as well as local ciders, including fruit-flavoured ones. Old Hector is a regular house beer brewed exclusively for the pub by Four Candles. Wines, champagne, Prosecco, mead, soft drinks, tea, coffee and pub snacks are also offered.
In the High Street you could easily walk past without noticing the Black Dog but if you like a pint, make sure you don’t. Probably the first micropub in Whitstable, it’s cosy and very welcoming with some weird and wonderful wall decoration. There is of course a selection of great beers plus it now caters for other tastes (be careful of the cider!).
14 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Black Dog
66 High StIn the High Street you could easily walk past without noticing the Black Dog but if you like a pint, make sure you don’t. Probably the first micropub in Whitstable, it’s cosy and very welcoming with some weird and wonderful wall decoration. There is of course a selection of great beers plus it now caters for other tastes (be careful of the cider!).
Probably our favourite drinking hole in Whitstable, the Twelve Taps is a craft beer and gin bar on Whitstable High Street, just by the Playhouse Theatre. They have twelve lines of cold craft beer on keg, a sizeable craft beer bottle and can list for drinking-in or take-away, and over 20 different gins with a selection of tonics and garnishes. They also serve cider, wine by the glass, and a wide range of soft drinks. Dogs very welcome with treats often supplied and if they’re lucky they’ll make it onto Twitter as the #tapsdogoftheday. Children welcome until 6pm https://thetwelvetaps.co.uk/
34 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Twelve Taps
102 High StProbably our favourite drinking hole in Whitstable, the Twelve Taps is a craft beer and gin bar on Whitstable High Street, just by the Playhouse Theatre. They have twelve lines of cold craft beer on keg, a sizeable craft beer bottle and can list for drinking-in or take-away, and over 20 different gins with a selection of tonics and garnishes. They also serve cider, wine by the glass, and a wide range of soft drinks. Dogs very welcome with treats often supplied and if they’re lucky they’ll make it onto Twitter as the #tapsdogoftheday. Children welcome until 6pm https://thetwelvetaps.co.uk/
Very welcoming local pub, serving a great food menu and good range of drinks. Large outside drinking garden
25 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
East Kent
72 Oxford StVery welcoming local pub, serving a great food menu and good range of drinks. Large outside drinking garden
The Tankerton Arms
135 Tankerton RdA great micropub in Tankerton High Street.
A Whitstable landmark! A great pub right on the beach with lots of seating outside. A perfect venue to sit and have a drink and watch the sun go down. They also serve great food but be warned it does get very busy when the sun is shining. Live music most Saturday and Sundays - http://www.thepubonthebeach.co.uk/
92 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Old Neptune
Island WallA Whitstable landmark! A great pub right on the beach with lots of seating outside. A perfect venue to sit and have a drink and watch the sun go down. They also serve great food but be warned it does get very busy when the sun is shining. Live music most Saturday and Sundays - http://www.thepubonthebeach.co.uk/
Located at the end of the High Street at the junction with Harbour Street. A really friendly pub with a beer garden that you can bring your dog to. They often have live music here at the weekends including some ticket only events. If you’re around on Sunday, be aware they close at 7pm. https://dukeinwhitstable.co.uk/#welcome
39 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Duke Of Cumberland Bar
High StreetLocated at the end of the High Street at the junction with Harbour Street. A really friendly pub with a beer garden that you can bring your dog to. They often have live music here at the weekends including some ticket only events. If you’re around on Sunday, be aware they close at 7pm. https://dukeinwhitstable.co.uk/#welcome
In a different direction to the other pubs mentioned here, the Rose in Bloom is on Joy Lane towards Seasalter and has a lovely outdoor seating area with sea views.
7 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Rose in Bloom Bar
69 Joy LnIn a different direction to the other pubs mentioned here, the Rose in Bloom is on Joy Lane towards Seasalter and has a lovely outdoor seating area with sea views.
Located a stone’s throw from the harbour and named after an old fishing boat, the Smack Inn captures all the spirit of the Whitstable seaside - even boasting a beach-inspired beer garden complete with colourful beach huts! It’s a family-friendly pub promising a warm welcome to all who come aboard. Tucked away behind the High Street, it’s the perfect place to escape the tourist crowds.
Music fans will love the live music here, with a variety of styles to meet everyone's tastes… https://www.smackwhitstable.co.uk/
Smack Inn
Middle WallLocated a stone’s throw from the harbour and named after an old fishing boat, the Smack Inn captures all the spirit of the Whitstable seaside - even boasting a beach-inspired beer garden complete with colourful beach huts! It’s a family-friendly pub promising a warm welcome to all who come aboard. Tucked away behind the High Street, it’s the perfect place to escape the tourist crowds.
Music fans will love the live music here, with a variety of styles to meet everyone's tastes… https://www.smackwhitstable.co.uk/
Royal Naval Reserve
28-30 High StRecently refurbished pub in the High Street
A Wetherspoons pub in a former cinema opposite Rock Lodge
7 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Peter Cushing
16-18 Oxford StreetA Wetherspoons pub in a former cinema opposite Rock Lodge
Activities
The sign at West Beach says: -
“To book a tennis court please call or text Ben Wilson on 07912 482607 or email benwilsontennis@gmail.com. During the spring/summer weekends and school holidays the kiosk will be open to take payment for the courts. If the kiosk is closed, please pay at Windy Corner Stores, Nelson Road.” Rackets and balls can be hired as well.
12 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
West Beach Tennis
92 Island WallThe sign at West Beach says: -
“To book a tennis court please call or text Ben Wilson on 07912 482607 or email benwilsontennis@gmail.com. During the spring/summer weekends and school holidays the kiosk will be open to take payment for the courts. If the kiosk is closed, please pay at Windy Corner Stores, Nelson Road.” Rackets and balls can be hired as well.
Whitstable & Seasalter Golf Club (https://www.whitstable-golfclub.co.uk) has a 9 hole beach side golf course in Collingwood Road, just off Nelson Road. Their new clubhouse opened in early 2020.
Their website says guests are welcome but makes no mention of any club hire, so it looks like you’ll need to bring your own equipment. If you want to take a look at the course the easiest way is to follow one of our suggested walks listed below which goes across the centre of the course.
8 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Whitstable Seasalter Golf Club Ltd
Whitstable & Seasalter Golf Club (https://www.whitstable-golfclub.co.uk) has a 9 hole beach side golf course in Collingwood Road, just off Nelson Road. Their new clubhouse opened in early 2020.
Their website says guests are welcome but makes no mention of any club hire, so it looks like you’ll need to bring your own equipment. If you want to take a look at the course the easiest way is to follow one of our suggested walks listed below which goes across the centre of the course.
In the High Street, there’s a small museum on the history of Whitstable. We went in and were surprised how much history there is to Whitstable and it’s well worth a visit! https://www.whitstablemuseum.org/
26 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Whitstable Community Museum and Gallery
5A Oxford StIn the High Street, there’s a small museum on the history of Whitstable. We went in and were surprised how much history there is to Whitstable and it’s well worth a visit! https://www.whitstablemuseum.org/
They hold a wide range of activities throughout the week including antiques fairs, farmers market, yoga, Pilates, meditation & fitness
Whitstable Umbrella Community Support centre
10 Oxford StThey hold a wide range of activities throughout the week including antiques fairs, farmers market, yoga, Pilates, meditation & fitness
Try crab fishing in the corner of the harbour by the huts
93 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Whitstable Harbour
Try crab fishing in the corner of the harbour by the huts
Whitstable Skate Park
Marine CrescentAt the far end of Tankerton
Whitstable Swimming Pool
Tower ParadeFaversham Pools
Leslie Smith DriveIndoor and outdoor pools
Kent Cycle Hire
Sea StreetCulture
A cosy little theatre in the High Street
14 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Playhouse Theatre Whitstable
104 High StA cosy little theatre in the High Street
The Horsebridge Centre has a range of events including live events, workshops and a schedule of films, typically Thursday matinees and Friday evenings.
33 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Horsebridge Arts Centre
11 Horsebridge RdThe Horsebridge Centre has a range of events including live events, workshops and a schedule of films, typically Thursday matinees and Friday evenings.
brucewilliamsart Studio/Gallery
66 High StThe Fish Slab Gallery
11 Oxford StHarbour Street Tapas
48 Harbour StChappell Contemporary
30 Oxford StFood produce
Sainsbury's Local
44 - 48 High StCo-op Food - Whitstable - Canterbury Rd
14-16 Canterbury RdAlan R Long Butchers
19 High StJim's Family Butchers
99-101 High StGrain & Hearth Bakery
52 Oxford StHubbard's Wholesale Bakery
63 High StThe Cheese Box
60 Harbour StWhitstable Oyster Company
Horsebridge RoadM&S Whitstable Foodhall
Unit 2 Otley RoadStaines Farm Shop
61 High StVita Stores
64 Harbour StWhitstable Fish Market
The Offy
5 High StA farmer’s market situated in an impressively old building right next to Canterbury West train station.
If you are interested in where your food comes from and love having super fresh and hand-reared ingredients, then this place will be right up your street. Here you can purchase the perfect items for an al fresco meal or even a few local specialities to take home with you. If you love the idea of cooking up an organic feast, but don’t want the effort, then check out Wild Goose a mini cocktail bar and eatery located in the building itself. https://thegoodsshed.co.uk/
99 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
The Goods Shed
Station Road WestA farmer’s market situated in an impressively old building right next to Canterbury West train station.
If you are interested in where your food comes from and love having super fresh and hand-reared ingredients, then this place will be right up your street. Here you can purchase the perfect items for an al fresco meal or even a few local specialities to take home with you. If you love the idea of cooking up an organic feast, but don’t want the effort, then check out Wild Goose a mini cocktail bar and eatery located in the building itself. https://thegoodsshed.co.uk/
Held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month in the Umbrella Centre in the High Street. https://www.umbrellacentre.co.uk/
7 icetyiswa ngabantu basekuhlaleni
Whitstable Library
31-33 Oxford StHeld every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month in the Umbrella Centre in the High Street. https://www.umbrellacentre.co.uk/
In a caravan sales park just beyond Whitstable’s railway bridge, a small black hut has set up shop (literally: for beer and anchovies, jars of beans, cans of pimenton and gorgeously oily Spanish crisps). But it’s also serving a small selection of dishes from Wednesday to Saturday, chalked on a blackboard. The man behind it is David Brown, his former butcher’s shop Deli a beloved feature of Harbour Street.
The little collective is fabulously ad hoc: there’s the shed itself; a van for coffees and under-the-counter iberico hams and cheeses; a stall selling veg boxes and another manned by the Beardy Baker, with his bread and cakes.
The Old Coal Yard
1 Belmont RoadIn a caravan sales park just beyond Whitstable’s railway bridge, a small black hut has set up shop (literally: for beer and anchovies, jars of beans, cans of pimenton and gorgeously oily Spanish crisps). But it’s also serving a small selection of dishes from Wednesday to Saturday, chalked on a blackboard. The man behind it is David Brown, his former butcher’s shop Deli a beloved feature of Harbour Street.
The little collective is fabulously ad hoc: there’s the shed itself; a van for coffees and under-the-counter iberico hams and cheeses; a stall selling veg boxes and another manned by the Beardy Baker, with his bread and cakes.