A quirky seaside town has been ranked one of the best UK destinations to visit in 2026 and it's fast becoming a must-visit spot. Folkestone, located on the southern edge of the North Downs, has been transformed into a trendy hub and now outshines well-known neighbours such as Margate, Whitstable and Brighton.
Folkestone: A Premier Coastal Destination
With the long-awaited King Charles III Coastal Path now open, Britain's entire coastline is accessible on foot, and many holidaymakers are setting their sights on its stunning seaside towns for a taste of coastal life this summer. According to Time Out, Folkestone is one of the must-visit destinations of 2026, and with a wealth of attractions set against a breathtaking seaside backdrop, it is not difficult to understand why.
Outshining well-known neighbours such as Margate, Whitstable and Brighton, Folkestone has firmly cemented itself as a premier coastal destination for the perfect getaway. Nestled on the southern edge of the North Downs, tucked into a valley between two cliffs, the historic town brims with an unconventional charm all of its own. With more reason than ever to forgo the flights and discover the UK coastline, Folkestone is a superb place to begin, coming in at number 4 on the list of top seaside destinations.
Creative Quarter
At the very heart of the town lies a thriving cultural district, overseen by arts charity Creative Folkestone. Its mission has seen more than 90 buildings lovingly restored to accommodate an eclectic mix of independent studios, cafés and creative businesses, a spirit that permeates the entire town. The Creative Quarter is characterised by colour and traditional shop fronts. Alive with colour and character, this quarter of winding, labyrinthine streets is what truly sets Folkestone apart. The vividly painted shopfronts and flourishing independent businesses give the town an instantly recognisable identity, unmistakable even from a single photograph.
Upon visiting for the first time, one guest wrote on TripAdvisor: "Today was my first visit to Folkestone, and we wanted to visit the Creative Quarter. Was not disappointed. Fabulous sunny day, helps, of course. Cobble 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." Visitors could easily find themselves whiling away hours browsing in and out of shops, snapping up unique souvenirs, books, homeware and artwork.
Harbour Arm
Steeped in history and hosting a variety of events throughout the week, the Harbour Arm is a central landmark of Folkestone. Originally serving as the railway terminal for the Folkestone-Boulogne Ferry and a departure point for troops heading to the Western Front, it now stands as a picturesque destination for drinks, dining and live entertainment with family and friends. The stunning promenade extending towards the sea boasts an impressive array of goods from over 70 independent food, drink and retail vendors, ensuring visitors are thoroughly spoilt for choice. If one thing rings true here, it is the town's unwavering dedication to championing local businesses throughout every aspect of its tourist attractions.
One impressed visitor shared: "Folkestone Harbour Arm has been transformed into a remarkable destination - a vibrant blend of artistic flair, seaside heritage, and excellent food. We thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful walk to the lighthouse, passing a compact market area and plenty of great food stalls. The fresh sea air and creative atmosphere made it a joy."
Beach
Folkestone boasts a selection of both sandy bays and pebble beaches, but there's one which particularly stands out as a firm favourite amongst visitors, and can get rather crowded during those warmer summer days. Adjacent to the harbour lies Sunny Sands, the go-to seaside spot for many, owing to its soft sands perfect for building sandcastles and soaking up the sun, along with its convenient proximity to the town's vibrant centre.
Holidaymakers report that while it suits all ages it is "especially great for children", due to its well-maintained and practical facilities, alongside opportunities for water sports. Handily, this ranks among the nearest beaches to London, within an hour's travel from the capital, making it a popular choice for Londoners seeking a breath of that coastal air. Adding to its appeal is the parking situated directly beside the beach at the Harbour Arm Car Park, though this is anticipated to fill up rapidly during the holiday season.
One visitor put it plainly, stating: "Beautiful beach, lovely day out. fabulous views and scenery. Great for all ages. Lots to see and do. Very clean beach, worth a visit."
