Whitstable Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Whitstable Castle and Gardens showing heritage elements, heritage architecture and château or palace
Work up an appetite with invigorating coastal walks then dine on oysters and gourmet seafood at this seaside resort in the southeast of England.

The tranquil seaside town of Whitstable is a popular weekend destination for London escapees trading in the big city bustle for peace, fresh sea air and delectable seafood. Stroll along promenades and pebbled shores, paddle in the cool waters and try a few of those sweet and briny native oysters for which this town is so well known.

Oysters have been harvested in Whitstable since Roman times, although the industry really flourished in the late 18th and 19th centuries. It went into decline in the 20th century, but has experienced a revival in recent years.

There are several places where you can try these tasty mollusks. Purchase them fresh from the Whitstable Fish Market or at the famous Wheelers Oyster Bar. Better yet, plan your visit for the July Oyster Festival when they are served at restaurants, bars and stalls throughout town.

A pleasant way to see Whitstable is on foot. Amble along the main stretch of West Beach and continue east to Tankerton Slopes where pastel-colored beach huts line the shore. If the tide is low, walk along the Street, a strip of shingle that extends into the water and offers good views of the town. Another good trek is the coastal Saxon Shore Way.

Rent a bike to explore farther afield. Cycle along the Crab and Winkle Way following the old rail course from Whitstable to Canterbury. The route first carried Victorian tourists here and passes through an area of ancient woodland.

Back in town, tour the Whitstable Museum and Gallery. Exhibits are devoted to local topics, including the oyster industry and famous former residents such as the actor Peter Cushing. He starred in several horror movies and the original Star Wars. Wander the town center where old-fashioned shops, retro ice-cream emporiums and characterful pubs add to the town’s appeal.

Whitstable is about a 2-hour drive from London. Regular train services leave from the capital and buses depart from Canterbury. Sample seaside living and mouthwatering seafood at this picturesque resort.

Hotel Continental
Hotel Continental
3 out of 5
29 Beach Walk, Whitstable, England
The price is NZ$213 per night from 21 May to 22 May
NZ$213
per night
21 May - 22 May
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Whitstable. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (280 reviews)
"Wonderful hotel and staff"

Reviewed on 24 Apr. 2024

Hotel Continental
Marine Hotel
Marine Hotel
3 out of 5
Marine Parade, Tankerton, Whitstable, England
The price is NZ$275 per night from 19 May to 20 May
NZ$275
per night
19 May - 20 May
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Whitstable. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (576 reviews)
Lovely family birthday stay
"We only stayed for 1 night after a day at Howletts but the staff were fantastic. It was our son’s 11th birthday and they really made him feel special. Thank you ☺️ Lovely family room, view of the sea, really nice dinner and absolutely superb breakfast. We walked into Whitstable along the seafront. ..."

Reviewed on 7 May 2024

Marine Hotel
Duke of Cumberland
Duke of Cumberland
3.5 out of 5
High Street, Whitstable, England
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$371 per night from 14 May to 15 May
NZ$371
per night
14 May - 15 May
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Whitstable. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Canterbury Cathedral and Playhouse Theatre ...
9/10 Wonderful! (13 reviews)
"Everyone and everything was top notch!"

Reviewed on 6 May 2024

Duke of Cumberland
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Cosy Fisherman’s Cottage, minutes from High Street, Harbour & Beach
Cosy Fisherman’s Cottage, minutes from High Street, Harbour & Beach
Whitstable
Stay at this vacation home in Whitstable. Enjoy a garden, cable/satellite TV service, and an in-room coffeemaker. Our guests praise the clean rooms and the property ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (51 reviews)
Immaculate Cottage, Great Location
"Ric’s cottage has been renovated to the highest standard and has all the amenities for an extremely comfortable stay in Whitstable. A bit of trouble initially finding a parking space but once we found one, we had no need to use the car again, as everything was within walkable distance. Lovely garden ..."

Reviewed on 14 Apr. 2024

Cosy Fisherman’s Cottage, minutes from High Street, Harbour & Beach
Shapelesslodge.com
Shapelesslodge.com
Whitstable
Book a stay at this business-friendly vacation home in Whitstable. Enjoy free WiFi and a garden. Popular attractions Whitstable Harbour and Canterbury Cathedral ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (18 reviews)
Whitstable stay
"Really lovely property it had what we wanted."

Reviewed on 14 Feb. 2024

Shapelesslodge.com
Modern 2 Bed (sleeps up to 4) house, 50 metres from sea front
Modern 2 Bed (sleeps up to 4) house, 50 metres from sea front
Whitstable
Stay at this vacation home in Whitstable. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and tennis courts. Popular attractions Whitstable Harbour and Canterbury Cathedral are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (55 reviews)
Excellent
"Excellent property in a great location. 15 minutes walk into Whitstable. Parking spaces were a bonus, very clean, comfortable beds and excellent communication with Carol. Would definitely book again."

Reviewed on 2 Jan. 2024

Modern 2 Bed (sleeps up to 4) house, 50 metres from sea front
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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