Moving to Whitstable offers the best of coastal living. A charming and beautiful town, the long and wide pebbled beach is one of the town’s selling points and it’s one of the few places to have a pub on the beach…more about that later!
You’ll be walking on water when visiting “The Street”, this amazing shingle spit in Tankerton, measures about half a mile and at low tide allows you to walk right out to sea. Add in the multi-coloured beach huts and it makes for a perfect summer paddle.
There’s history, too, take a look at the castle, which was once known as Tankerton Towers and was the residence for the Pearson family in the late 1790s.
The charming Harbour Street has an eclectic mix of art and craft shops as well as independent retailers. Community events, art galleries showcasing work from local artists, as well as the local theatre also thrive here.
Food and drink are celebrated, too, particularly the oysters, which have become world famous for centuries.
And, if you want to take in the local scenic views, a walk or cycle along the Crab and Winkle Way is perfect for families and cyclists of all levels, even beginners. Just over seven miles, along the disused railway line, it’s a traffic-free trail from the harbour to Canterbury and has lots to see along the way, including Blean Woods Nature Reserve. Don’t have a bike? No need to worry as there’s plenty of rental opportunities.
Residents and visitors will love the many wonders of Whitstable!
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK
Independent and family-run, Samphire (samphirewhitstable.co.uk) is a must for those living or visiting Whitstable. Using the best seasonal ingredients, head chef Mark O’Brien ensures this beautiful bistro serves up a treat every day and all whilst using the best Kentish produce including local farms, allotments, fishermen and producers in Kent and the South East.
We’ve already mentioned the town is famed for its seafood and The Lobster Shack (thelobstershack.co.uk) serves a selection of both hot and cold seafood, as well as daily specials. Located at the end of the East Quay, the views across the Thames Estuary add to the dining experience.
And, if you want to dine on the beach (and it is on the beach!) The Old Neptune (thepubonthebeach.co.uk) can provide you with a beautiful view and the famous Whitstable sunsets, as well as local ales, continental lagers as well as home cooked food.
WHERE TO SHOP
Founded in 2012, Ruskin (ruskinclothing.co.uk) sits in the heart of the seaside town of Whitstable’s vibrant shopping district. Providing stylish pieces, it works with small and emerging brands, as well as more established ones…all to bring customers the best selection of contemporary menswear and womenswear in the country. Sustainability is taken seriously and packaging is plastic-free and recyclable/reusable and buying in small numbers avoids over-production and saves clothing from landfill. The unique collection is also available online.
The Harbour Market (harbourmarketwhitstable.co.uk) is home to some wonderful independent businesses, all offering a diverse mix of artistic styles and something for everyone as well as budget. It’s a great base to meet the local skilled craftspeople right here in Whitstable.
At the heart of the high street for more than 50 years, George’s (georgeswhitstable.com) is known for its Aladdin’s Cave of treasures. From items for the home and garden to gifts and puzzles, it is certainly worth a look!
MUST SEE
Run as a charitable trust by a team of volunteers, Whitstable Museum (whitstablemuseum.org) in Oxford Street has various displays incorporating the science, education, literature, trades and manufacturing which have flourished in the town over several centuries. It’s also home to the first steam passenger locomotive “Invicta” and you can see the invention of the world’s first diving helmet. Children are very welcome and will particularly enjoy the hands-on activities.
The museum is open Thursday to Saturday from 10.30am to 4.30pm as well as on Wednesdays in the school holidays. For up-to-date information and news, take a look at the website.
WHERE TO STAY
Spectacular sea views and blissful relaxation is just what’s on offer at The Marine Hotel, (marinewhitstable.co.uk) Looking out onto the seafront at Tankerton, alongside its 30 wonderfully presented bedrooms, it also has a stylish restaurant and seating with breath-taking views. Once you’ve finished dining, enjoy a relaxing coastal stroll, as the beach is literally on the doorstep.
With unique rooms and stunning views, The Crescent Turner (crescentturner.co.uk) offers rooms for everyone. Whether it’s a couple’s getaway or a family vacation, soak up luxury and retreat in the deluxe seaview and of course, every guest receives a warm welcome.
The Lobster Pot (thelobsterpotwhitstable.com) is a Fishermans Cottage located in the heart of the town and just 100 yards from Whitstable Harbour as well as West Beach. The pretty cottage accommodates six people, has two bathrooms and an open plan living space with log burner.
ESSENTIAL INFO
Post office: Sites are located at 134 Cromwell Road and at 141 Tankerton Road, Tankerton.
Healthcare: GP surgeries include Whitstable Health Centre, Chestfield Medical Centre and Estuary View Medical Centre. The nearest accident and emergency hospital is Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital. Visit nhs.uk for more health information.
Schools: Primary and secondary education is available in the town. Whitstable and Seasalter Endowed Church of England (Aided) Junior School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted and The Whitstable School provides secondary education. For higher education, Canterbury offers numerous education providers including the University of Canterbury and Canterbury College.
Transport: Whitstable station offers quick links to London Victoria and London St Pancras, with services departing regularly. Regent Coaches provide a bus service.
