UK’s Kent Emerges as the Ultimate Seaside Destination, Where Majestic Coastal Towns Blend Rich History, Artistic Innovation, and Unrivalled Natural Beauty

Published on May 4, 2025

Kent has firmly established itself as the ultimate coastal destination in the UK, offering a rare blend of historic allure, cultural vibrance, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From its quaint seaside towns like Whitstable and Margate to the more unconventional Dungeness, Kent’s coastline provides something for every type of traveller. Its proximity to London, coupled with its growing reputation as a hub for art, history, and nature, makes Kent the perfect place for those seeking a seaside getaway that offers more than just stunning views. The county effortlessly combines the charm of traditional British coastal towns with the excitement of cultural rejuvenation, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.

The United Kingdom, renowned for its ever-changing weather, is home to an array of enchanting coastal retreats, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and distinct charm. From rugged cliffs to serene sandy shores, the British coastline remains a top destination for travellers seeking a getaway that combines nostalgia, scenic vistas, and cultural richness. Recently, a new ranking by Condé Nast Traveller has spotlighted some of the country’s most alluring seaside escapes, with one particular county undeniably taking centre stage.

While areas like Cornwall, Sussex, and Yorkshire often dominate discussions about British seaside towns, it is Kent—surprisingly to many—that has emerged as the undisputed leader in this year’s list. Known as “The Garden of England,” Kent now boasts a stunning collection of towns that capture the essence of coastal beauty in its many forms. The list reveals 16 of the finest seaside gems across the UK, and among them, Kent has stolen the show with a quartet of extraordinary destinations: Whitstable, Margate, Folkestone, and Dungeness.

Whitstable: Where Maritime Heritage Meets Creative Energy

Just a short train ride from London, Whitstable has long been a hidden treasure of the Southeast coast. Famed for its historical connection to the Roman Empire—especially its native oysters—this charming town is now a bustling hub of artistic and bohemian culture. Whitstable’s seafront is lined with pastel-hued cottages and bustling independent shops, offering a blend of nostalgia and contemporary charm. At the heart of the town is the iconic Wheelers Oyster Bar, a local institution that has attracted culinary enthusiasts for generations.

The town’s unique blend of old-world maritime heritage and modern creative flair makes Whitstable a perfect destination for those seeking a laid-back yet vibrant seaside escape. Its thriving arts scene, intimate galleries, and thriving local markets give the town an effortlessly cool and inviting vibe.

Margate: A Victorian Resort Reborn as a Creative Hotspot

Once a popular resort for Victorian holidaymakers, Margate has experienced a remarkable renaissance in recent years. In its heyday, the town attracted tourists with its sandy beaches, seafront amusements, and charming Victorian architecture. However, like many once-popular resorts, Margate fell into decline in the latter half of the 20th century.

Now, thanks to a wave of regeneration and an influx of creative professionals, Margate has re-established itself as a beacon of cultural revival. The Turner Contemporary gallery—named after the iconic British artist J.M.W. Turner—has become a key cultural institution, drawing art lovers from far and wide. Coupled with the fun and nostalgia of Dreamland amusement park and the eclectic mix of shops and cafes along the seafront, Margate has managed to strike the perfect balance between art, culture, and seaside nostalgia.

Folkestone: A Transformative Cultural Hub

Once a sleepy seaside town, Folkestone has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, emerging as a vibrant cultural hub. The Folkestone Triennial, a world-renowned outdoor art festival, has attracted international artists and visitors to the town, turning it into an open-air gallery of sorts. The town’s Old High Street, which was once a shadow of its former self, is now home to an array of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants that reflect the town’s new cosmopolitan character.

Folkestone offers visitors a combination of stunning views over the English Channel, beautiful historic architecture, and a lively arts scene. Whether you’re strolling along the clifftop promenade, exploring its many art installations, or dining at one of the town’s creative eateries, Folkestone offers something for those looking for a more modern, cultural twist on the traditional British seaside experience.

Dungeness: A Stark and Surreal Landscape

Among Kent’s coastal towns, Dungeness stands as the most unconventional and, in many ways, the most striking. Known for its stark, windswept beauty, Dungeness is a shingle headland that seems to defy nature. The landscape here is both desolate and poetic, with its abandoned fishing boats, derelict buildings, and wild, untamed beauty. The area is home to a variety of rare wildlife, and its eerie atmosphere has drawn artists, filmmakers, and nature lovers alike.

One of Dungeness’ most famous landmarks is Prospect Cottage, the former home of the late filmmaker Derek Jarman, whose hauntingly beautiful gardens have become a symbol of the resilience of life in this extreme environment. For those with an appreciation for the unusual, Dungeness offers a place of reflection, quietude, and raw beauty—something far removed from the typical seaside escape.

Other Noteworthy Coastal Destinations

While Kent takes centre stage, the Condé Nast Traveller list also includes a number of other notable seaside destinations that are equally deserving of attention. Cornwall, long a favourite of British holidaymakers, continues to enchant with its rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and picturesque towns. St Ives, Mousehole, and Falmouth are perennial favourites, known for their laid-back vibe and stunning seafront views.

In East Sussex, Rye remains a charming, medieval town that has become a sanctuary for those seeking history and coastal beauty. Its cobbled streets and quaint buildings are complemented by breathtaking views of the nearby coastline. Further along the East Sussex coast, Eastbourne continues to be a popular family destination, with its traditional pier, wide sandy beaches, and surrounding hills offering a mix of relaxation and outdoor adventure.

The Suffolk Heritage Coast, with its blend of nature reserves, dramatic cliffs, and untouched beaches, offers an unspoiled corner of England that is perfect for those seeking solitude and tranquillity. Similarly, Norfolk’s Blakeney is a peaceful haven, offering visitors a chance to explore its stunning nature reserves and quiet, unhurried atmosphere.

Kent stands as the ultimate coastal escape in the UK, blending historic charm, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Its diverse seaside towns, from artistic Margate to the serene beauty of Whitstable, offer an unparalleled getaway experience.

Kent’s New Identity as the Coast of Cool

With fast trains from London and an increasing range of cultural events and exhibitions, Kent has become a destination that offers more than just scenic beauty—it has emerged as a cultural hotspot that attracts a diverse range of visitors. The diverse offerings of Whitstable, Margate, Folkestone, and Dungeness prove that the county has reinvented itself as one of the most exciting coastal regions in Britain.

So, whether you’re drawn to the charming, artistic energy of Whitstable, the cultural renaissance of Margate, the modern creativity of Folkestone, or the haunting beauty of Dungeness, Kent is the ideal destination for those seeking a coastal escape that combines natural splendour with cultural dynamism.