OUR Spotlight ON column takes an in-depth look at the best things to see and do in popular holiday destinations, as well as shining a light on some lesser-known spots.
This week we’re focusing on , the newly-revived Kentish coastal town.
Here is everything you need to know about visiting Folkestone Credit: Alamy
The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey, who lives there, has shared some of her best kept secrets.
She said: “Being just 52 minutes from London, Folkestone is one of the easiest beach towns to get to by train in the country.
“It hopes to this summer after years, and you can find live music most weekends at the harbour too.
“My favourite spot? Gaia Studios for a huge cocktail list (and they’re branching out into brunch too).”
MUST SEE / DO
Who says art only belongs in a gallery? The UK’s largest outdoor art trail winds through Folkestone and is completely free.
There are contributions from 46 artists including Antony Gormley, and Yoko Ono. See if you can spot the Banksy too!
The town is full of amazing artwork Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
HIDDEN GEM
A picturesque zig zag path from the clifftops leads down to the
The linear coastal gardens feel tucked away under the cliffs and are well-maintained with impressive planting and a prime spot right alongside the beach.
If that wasn’t enough there’s also the South East’s largest free adventure playground which is being rebuilt and will open in the summer.
BEST VIEW
There’s nothing like enjoying the view of the sea, particularly at the end of the Harbour Arm sipping a glass of something bubbly at the Lighthouse Champagne bar.
Pick up a bite to eat from the many food stalls and restaurants on the arm or indulge in some independent shopping.
The Harbour Arm also boasts the so the best view might just be from the sauna, hot tub or a cold plunge barrel!
The beach is big enough to never need to fight for space Credit: Alamy
RATED RESTAURANT
The award-winning Rocksalt, a two-rosette restaurant overlooking the harbour, is where you will find the best seafood in town.
Make sure to try the seared Folkestone scallops, alongside a chunky piece of fresh bread made by Docker brewery just down the road.
A short drive away in Saltwood the only two star in the whole of Kent.
Hide & Fox serves modern British cuisine in an intimate and relaxed environment.
BEST BAR
The Radnor Arms came fifth in the Good Food Guide’s list of 100 in Britain.
It’s a cosy, renovated Victorian pub in the Bouverie district serving a locally-sourced menu with roasts, brunches and themed evenings including flatbreads, Asian night and steak night.
Prohibition-inspired speakeasy The Potting Shed only opens on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Obtain the password to slip into the backroom and be rewarded with a carefully crafted cocktail menu inspired by the underground culture of the speakeasy bars of the 1920s.
Rocksalt has amazing views over the harbour Credit: Alamy
HOTEL PICK
Voco The Clifton is a traditional Victorian hotel with rooms decorated by local artists and views of the Channel, as well as Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill.
Rooms from £100 per night.
Or try the Burlington Best Western, a Victorian 4* hotel overlooking the famous Leas Promenade and the English Channel.
Rooms from £75 per room per night.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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