11 Top-Rated Things to Do in Whitstable, England

Spending a weekend in the quaint English seaside town of Whitstable is a rite of passage for big city folks looking to unwind. An easy jaunt from the nearby cathedral city of Canterbury and only 1.5 hours from London by train, this charming fishing community graces the northern Kent coast with fun attractions, colorful houses, delightful fishermen’s huts, a picturesque shingle beach, and an eclectic array of shops.

Eating fresh seafood at the shore, cruising around the bay, and taking long walks on the beachside promenade are among the top things to do in Whitstable, a town so adorable, you’ll hate to put your camera away.

While the town center itself is small enough that you won’t need a car to get around, you can expect to get a fair amount of walking in as you explore. So park the car at your hotel or rental cottage and focus instead on enjoying pleasant strolls and fresh sea air. And there’s certainly enough to do, and enough great food to eat, that you won’t get bored when visiting for a couple of days.

Plan your sightseeing in this charming Kent seaside town with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Whitstable, England.

1. Grab a Bite at Whitstable Harbour

Whitstable Harbour, with its bobbing boats and quirky shops, is a big draw for those looking to soak up that quintessential English seaside charm.

While the town is fun to visit at any time of year, summer weekends provide the best opportunity for people-watching. Pull up a seat at a harborside eatery, or grab a bite to enjoy as you stroll around the harbor walls.

The harbor area is also where you can join a sightseeing tour of the Whitstable coast. The harbor-based Whitstable Boat Trips feature a variety of options, including short 20-minute journeys across Whitstable Bay, and one-hour excursions to the famous Red Sands Sea Forts or seal watching.

The harbor was built in 1832 to serve the Canterbury and Whitstable Railway. Known affectionately as the “Crab and Winkle line,” it was supposedly the first regular steam passenger railway in the world.

In 1834, the railway sold its first season’s pass at Canterbury to people on their way to Whitstable’s beach. At that time, a Crab and Winkle line of ships carried coal between London and Canterbury, using the harbor as part of its freight route.

Address: Harbour Street, Whitstable, Kent

2. Enjoy the Seaside Views from Tankerton Slopes

If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy Whitstable at its best, it’s here. The gently sloping hillside known as Tankerton Slopes offers tremendous sea views and is connected to Whitstable harbor via a path that eventually leads to Herne Bay.

Grassy and mildly steep, this popular spot offers an impressive vantage point for those looking for a postcard-worthy photo. Colorful huts line the beach below, while golden sand stretches for miles, especially when the tide is out.

Kids will love climbing on the old cannon to reach an even higher vantage point. Plus, the Maunsell Sea Forts are nearby and easy to spot from up here. Strange, robot-like structures, these were designed during the second World War as an anti-aircraft defense.

In contrast to these historic icons lies a horizon spotted with modern windmills. Talk about a perfect place to play “I spy.”

Insider’s Tip: Parking is free along the road near the slopes, but it can get busy on weekends, so arrive early or be prepared to wait for a spot.

Address: Marine Parade, Tankerton, Whitstable, Kent

3. Breathe the Salty Air at Tankerton Beach

Lying directly below the Tankerton Slopes at the eastern end of Whitstable lies Tankerton Beach, one of the top attractions in Whitstable. It’s here that you’ll find “the Street,” a natural underwater peninsula that’s only exposed when the tide is low. This sandy outcropping is dotted with rock pools, which make great fun for kids looking to spot marine creatures such as crabs up close.

You’ll want to wear shoes on this old-fashioned beach. It’s made up of hard, sometimes sharp stones (a.k.a. shingles) that make walking a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re barefoot. It’s beautiful, though, with low wooden barriers known as “groynes” built out from shore and extending into the sea doing the work of preventing coastal erosion.

While you may not want to settle on the beach for long due to its uncomfortable base, there are plenty of cafés, restrooms, and shops nearby. And you won’t notice the rocks as much if you pack a deck chair. It’s relatively calm here, and lifeguards are on duty during high season, which makes for easy swimming during the warmer months.

Address: Tankerton Road, Whitstable, Kent

4. Have Afternoon Tea at Whitstable Castle & Gardens

What quaint English town would be complete without a castle? Built as a stately home in the late 1790s, Whitstable Castle was originally known as Tankerton Towers, its mock turrets and battlements built for decoration rather than any military purpose.

While the building itself is small when compared to many other English mansions from this period, it’s still impressive and regal. The main reason people visit this attraction, though, is for its beautiful gardens.

Perfectly manicured lawns, lovely flower beds, and an impressive array of mature oak trees entice visitors to stay just a little longer in this top Whitstable attraction. The fragrant rose garden is another treat guiding tourists towards a beautiful central fountain. Benches are placed here to help encourage guests to literally stop and smell the roses.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Orangery Tearoom while you’re here and treat yourself to a traditional cream tea. They even offer gluten-free options. If the sun is shining, choose a seat on the outside patio.

Address: Tower Hill, Whitstable, Kent

Official site: whitstablecastle.co.uk/the-castle

5. Shop in Harbour Market

It’s no surprise that Harbour Market is one of the top things to do in Whitstable. At this small open-air market set along the perimeter of Whitstable Harbour, each shop is housed in an adorable hut modeled on the fishing huts of old.

Those looking to engage in a little retail therapy will enjoy the wide variety of goods on offer, covering everything from arts and crafts to food items and clothing.

In addition to selling pretty much everything you can think of, from T-shirts and baby blankets to handmade tea towels, fresh produce, and paintings, the market is a fantastic place to visit for an hour or so. Since it’s small, you won’t need much more time than that.

Each shop is eclectic, and many of the owners are as unique as their wares, making this a great people-watching locale. Add the gorgeous sea backdrop complete with bobbing fishing boats and pleasure craft, and you’ll be content to wander for even longer.

During summer weekends, guests can expect live music, great takeaway food, and impeccably good fudge. Some “pop-up” vendors are only here once or twice a year, so be sure to check them all.

Insider’s Tip: Head here on a weekend as many of the shops are closed on weekdays. If you’re hoping to truly enjoy some unique retail therapy, be sure to visit during high season.

Address: The South Quay, Whitstable Harbour, Whitstable, Kent

Official site: https://harbourmarketwhitstable.co.uk/

6. Discover The Street

The Street is elusive at certain times of the day, only revealing its rocky base at low tide. Stretching about half a mile from Tankerton Beach toward the Thames Estuary, this thin sliver of land is worthy of a visit.

That said, you’ll have to time your trip well if you don’t want to end up with wet feet. Look back from The Street’s tip, and you’ll be rewarded by an unsurpassable view of Tankerton Beach and Tankerton Slope, colorful fisherman cottages happily dotting the horizon.

As mentioned earlier, The Street is made of shingles and stones, so it’s quite rocky. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes if you’re planning to walk it. While you’re here, see if you can spot any creatures in the tide pools, or swimming just offshore.

7. Bike along Crab and Winkle Way

Crab and Winkle Way is a lesser-known bike route leading cyclists through about 10 miles of the winding countryside from Whitstable to Canterbury. What better way to get to know a country than by traversing its wilderness and marveling at the lush fields and magnificent sky as you pedal?

Part of the National Cycle Network, this well-tended path passes farms, crosses bridges, and heads through forests. The path is made of a mixture of elements, depending where you are: tarmac, stones, gravel, and dirt can all be navigated along it. You can also expect to see varying types of path – from tree-lined wonders to neighborhood streets to wide-open spaces.

There are no massive hills or mountains to climb, but it can be a bit challenging at times. Overall, though, cycling along the Crab and Winkle Way is a perfect activity for those who aren’t the most confident bike riders.

If you don’t stop to rest, marvel at the livestock, or take hundreds of photos, the route should take about an hour and a half to two hours to complete. But there’s no need to do the whole thing. Even staying close to town will give you an idea of the area’s extensive beauty.

Insider’s Tip: Keep your eyes posted for trail signs. They’re usually easy to spot but get trickier to find when you’re in the heart of Canterbury.

8. Unwind on Duncan Down

If you’re a fan of captivating views, you’ll love Duncan Down. The largest village green in the country, this vast, grassy expanse spans 52 acres slightly southwest of the town. It provides ample spots for picnics, mowed areas that serve as walking trails, and a wonderful overview of Whitstable.

Winner of a Green Flag Award, this park is exceptionally well maintained, and boasts an array of wildlife attracted here by the sparkling stream, woods, scrubland, and grasses. Be sure to pack snacks, as you’ll be tempted to stay awhile.

If you’re hoping for the best view, don good hiking shoes. The climb to the highest point can get quite steep, not to mention slippery in wet weather. Once you reach the top of the hill, take a few moments to park yourself on a bench and enjoy the surrounding countryside and town vistas. Traveling with a four-legged friend? The park is dog-friendly.

9. Be Intrigued at the Whitstable Museum and Gallery

The Whitstable Museum and Gallery is housed in the most adorable, slate-shingled building. Painted white at the front, its blue trim brightens up the façade, inviting people to enter for a trip back in time.

The museum’s most impressive display is located right in its center: the INVICTA train engine. This historic steam locomotive was one of the first to be used on the Canterbury & Whitstable Railway (a.k.a. the Crab & Winkle Line), pulling the first paying passengers from Canterbury to Whitstable. As of June 2019, it’s on show right here for all to admire.

Film buffs will like the Peter Cushing display (a.k.a. “Cushing Corner”). The actor, who starred in Star Wars and Doctor Who, was a Whitstable resident for 35 years.

Although small, the Whitstable Museum is the perfect size for children with a short attention span and offers an interesting look into the people and trade that made up the town’s past. It’s run by volunteers who exemplify the friendly community that makes up this seaside town.

Insider’s Tip: The museum has seasonal hours, so check their website for details and plan your visit accordingly.

Address: 5A Oxford Street, Whitstable, Kent

Official site: www.whitstablemuseum.org/

10. Visit St. Alphege Church

Set in the midst of the busy high street, deep in the heart of Whitstable, stands the stoic St. Alphege church, a popular attraction in town. Its turreted steeple is impossible to miss, as is the English flag that flies high above it.

A small Anglican church, St. Alphege is worth a quick stop to admire the intricate stonework and stained glass from inside. Within the main foyer is what many tourists tout as the church’s best asset: a café.

Kind staff and chatty volunteers sell delicious cakes and various other treats guaranteed to please any palate. Plus, the coffee exceeds that found in any of the large chains. Looking for something to warm you? They also serve tea, hot food like jacket potatoes, and light lunches. Another bonus: the prices are extremely reasonable.

Address: High Street, Whitstable, Kent

Official site: https://stalphege.org.uk/

11. Get Your Eat On!

One of Whitstable’s main draws is its foodie scene. With fresh seafood being unloaded from fishing boats daily, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better place to enjoy a sardine sarnie. But whatever your preference, there are so many great restaurants here that it can be hard to choose.

Whether you choose takeaway fish and chips from Ossie’s or other seafood delicacies from West Whelks, food simply seems to taste better when eaten beside the sea.

Afterwards, treat yourself to a “99.” These traditional English soft-serve vanilla ice-creams with a piece of Flake chocolate on top can be bought from any number of vendors along the boardwalk. Not surprisingly, enjoying a meal or a sweet treat while gazing at the harbor is one of the best things to do in Whitstable.

Many of the top eateries, though, have nothing to do with the sea. Birdies is a French bistro with extra charm. Family-run JoJo’s is a real treat, featuring tasty fare with a Mediterranean twist. The Greek salads are divine. The dishes are made to share, so come with friends and a big appetite. You’ll find it on Herne Bay Road.

Where to Stay in Whitstable for Sightseeing

When it comes to spending the night in town, Whitstable’s hotel offerings are slim. It’s such a small town that there aren’t a ton of options for places to rest your weary head. Below are a few of the best hotels in this quaint fishing village. Since there aren’t any luxury accommodations, those hoping for a higher class of stay may want to look a bit further afield in nearby, and much larger, Canterbury.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Crescent Turner Hotel is as close as it gets to a luxury stay in Whitstable. Boasting 18 rooms, this stylish boutique hotel offers guests a phenomenal view of the coast from the top of Wraik Hill. The grounds are beautiful, and breakfast is delectable.
• The Marine Hotel also offers impeccable sea views from its supreme (almost) beachside location. Its 30 rooms are clean, modern, and spacious, and the on-site restaurant, which was awarded a Visit England Breakfast Award, is a crowd pleaser.
• The family-run Hotel Continental fronts the sea and is positioned a mere five-minute walk to the High Street. The crisp, tidy rooms were recently updated and boast impeccable views.

Budget Hotels:

• A stay at Hillview Whitstable Bed and Breakfast is about as peaceful as it gets. Set in a rural section of town, this sweet B&B is conveniently close to the Crab and Winkle Way.
• The Premier Inn Whitstable hotel is a bit generic but has everything you need in a good hotel—comfy beds, clean bathrooms, and courteous staff.

Map of Things to Do in Whitstable, England

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