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$254 per night from 2 Jun to 3 Jun
NZ$254
per night
2 Jun - 3 Jun
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$272 per night from 2 Jun to 3 Jun
NZ$272
per night
2 Jun - 3 Jun
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! (578 reviews)
"We enjoyed staying at Marine Hotel, we had dinner and breakfast at restaurant and impressed with the quality of food. The staff are attentive and friendly, specially to my 8 year old daughter. definitely recommend this hotel."

Reviewed on 22 May 2024

Marine Hotel
Duke of Cumberland
Duke of Cumberland
3.5 out of 5
High Street, Whitstable, England
The price is NZ$393 per night from 27 May to 28 May
NZ$393
per night
27 May - 28 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 ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (14 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! (53 reviews)
Wonderful stylish cottage
"Great experience, beautiful cottage, lovely design, and everything you need. Very easy check-in, very close to everything in town."

Reviewed on 22 May 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 Canterbury Cathedral and MFA Bowl Whitstable ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (18 reviews)
Whitstable stay
"Really lovely property it had what we wanted."

Reviewed on 14 Feb. 2024

Shapelesslodge.com
Beach Retreat - the perfect seaside escape.
Beach Retreat - the perfect seaside escape.
Seasalter
Book a stay at this family-friendly chalet in Whitstable. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. Popular ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (81 reviews)
Lovely seaside chalet
"Great views both sides of this very comfortable chalet home."

Reviewed on 6 May 2024

Beach Retreat - the perfect seaside escape.
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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