Kent


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-116961" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-4.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-4-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-4-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-4-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-4-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photography: Matt Rowe</figcaption></figure>



<p>With a thriving creative community, bold regeneration projects, and a lifestyle that strikes the perfect balance between seaside calm and city connectivity, it’s no wonder Folkestone keeps topping polls as one of the best places in live in the UK. </p>



<p>With lots of stylish pockets, it is by no means overly gentrified, retaining its authentic charm. We all know about the seaside location and cultural cool, but here&#8217;s 7 lesser known reasons why Folkestone deserves your attention.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-why-we-love-it-wellness">1. WHY WE LOVE IT: WELLNESS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="999" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/sea-scrub-sauna-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-116967" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/sea-scrub-sauna-1.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/sea-scrub-sauna-1-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/sea-scrub-sauna-1-1000x666.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/sea-scrub-sauna-1-400x266.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/sea-scrub-sauna-1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Folkestone is fast becoming a wellness destination and plans are afoot for a Scandinavian-themed mix of hot sauna sessions and chilly dips. If it gets the green light, Sea Scrub Sauna will be set up next to the harbour arm, in front of the boardwalk and about 120m from its crazy golf course. </p>



<p>Then, locals will be able to dip between hot and cold at a brand-new sauna and open-water lido right on the seafront, perfect for those who love a Nordic-inspired reset. Add in the town’s coastal walking routes, sea swims, and access to green spaces, and you’ll find plenty of ways to recharge, body and mind.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-why-we-love-it-food-scene">2. WHY WE LOVE IT: FOOD SCENE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-116960" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-3.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-3-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-3-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-3-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-3-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Folkestone isn’t just a feast for the eyes &#8211; it’s firmly on the foodie map too. For a relaxed, waterside experience, head to The Pilot Beach Bar, or sip Champagne at the Lighthouse Champagne Bar, tucked into Folkestone Lighthouse at the tip of the Harbour Arm. For stylish dining, Rocksalt restaurant offers panoramic floor-to-ceiling views of the English Channel, while its sister eatery, Little Rock, (housed in a cosy shipping container) brings beachside Ibiza vibes with sun sails and palm trees.</p>



<p>The Harbour Arm itself has become a destination for food lovers, offering a buzzy mix of street food vendors, pop-ups, and independent eateries. It’s a place where you can wander, sample, and soak up the seaside atmosphere. Cafés in the Creative Quarter are also winning awards and hearts alike. Marley’s recently scooped Best Casual Dining in the Muddy Awards 2024 for its brunches with a special nod to veggies and vegans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-why-we-love-it-new-developments">3. WHY WE LOVE IT: NEW DEVELOPMENTS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/shoreline-3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-115555" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/shoreline-3.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/shoreline-3-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/shoreline-3-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/shoreline-3-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/shoreline-3-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>The town has undergone a well-documented regeneration over the past two decades, breathing new life into its harbour, town centre, and public spaces. At the heart of this transformation is Shoreline, a multi-million-pound development masterminded by Sir Roger De Haan, the figurehead behind Folkestone’s regeneration since the early 2000s. </p>



<p>Shoreline itself comprises 64 apartments and 20 townhouses, with prices ranging from £395,000 to £2.1 million. It caters perfectly to downsizers seeking a slice of seaside living, families wanting a coastal home, or anyone after a luxury penthouse or beach house. Designed by award-winning architects ACME, the properties are ideally positioned just steps from the Boardwalk promenade, offering stunning sunsets across the English Channel toward France.</p>



<p>It’s easy to see why Shoreline’s apartments and houses have been in high demand. During a recent Summer term break, we took a cheeky mid-week getaway in one of Shoreline’s beach houses, soaking up the sun and the so-called “Costa del Kent” vibes &#8211; proof that it’s not just a home, but a lifestyle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-why-we-love-it-arts-amp-culture">4. WHY WE LOVE IT: ARTS &amp; CULTURE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-creative-quarter.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117013" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-creative-quarter.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-creative-quarter-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-creative-quarter-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-creative-quarter-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-creative-quarter-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photography: Matt Rowe</figcaption></figure>



<p>Spot an Antony Gormley statue tucked into the waves, feast at street food stalls, enjoy fine dining by the sea, try your hand at crazy golf, or browse the artisan marketplace. Folkestone is quickly gaining a reputation as a cultural hotspot. </p>



<p>The Creative Quarter, part of the town’s regeneration project, is now a colourful enclave of studios and creative businesses &#8211; perfect for exploring. Art lovers should not miss Folkestone Artworks, the UK’s largest urban outdoor contemporary art exhibition, bringing world-class installations to streets, beaches, and parks.</p>



<p>Festivals, galleries, community events and the vibrant Harbour Arm &#8211; with its live music, markets, and adventure golf &#8211; mix cheeky creative flair that is accessible to all.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-why-we-love-it-dog-friendly">5. WHY WE LOVE IT: DOG-FRIENDLY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1001" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/dog-friendly-folkestone.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-117026" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/dog-friendly-folkestone.jpeg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/dog-friendly-folkestone-800x534.jpeg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/dog-friendly-folkestone-1000x667.jpeg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/dog-friendly-folkestone-400x267.jpeg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/dog-friendly-folkestone-768x513.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Folkestone isn’t just a great place for people &#8211; with beaches, coastal trails, and dog-friendly cafés and pubs, it’s the kind of town where four-legged friends are part of the community fabric. The new Shoreline development is even designed with dog-owners in mind, making everyday life easier for those who wouldn’t dream of moving without their pup.</p>



<p>Shoreline sits directly on the King Charles III England Coast Path, opening up some of the country’s most scenic walking routes. The six-mile Hythe to Folkestone Art &amp; Nostalgia Trail is a local favourite, while East Cliff Warren offers panoramic coastal views and woodland walks. The Lower Leas Coastal Park is perfect for leisurely strolls, while the lively Folkestone Harbour Arm brings food, culture, and sea views &#8211; all welcoming to dogs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-why-we-love-it-sunshine">6. WHY WE LOVE IT: SUNSHINE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-6.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-116963" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-6.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-6-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-6-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-6-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-6-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Folkestone is officially one of the sunniest town in the UK. Using data gathered from 33 weather stations, it topped the charts, along with Canterbury, for the most sunshine hours last year. </p>



<p>Whether you’re enjoying an al fresco coffee in the Creative Quarter or basking on the pebbled beach, those extra rays make coastal living here even brighter. Exposure to sunshine not only provides Vitamin D and boosts immunity, but it also improves your mood too because it increases your brain&#8217;s release of happiness hormone, serotonin.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-why-we-love-it-connectivity">7. WHY WE LOVE IT: CONNECTIVITY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-116962" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-5.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-5-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-5-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-5-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/folkestone-5-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>For all its seaside charm, Folkestone is far from remote. The high-speed train will whisk you into central London in under an hour, making it a practical choice for commuters or those wanting easy access to the capital. </p>



<p>Plus, with the Eurotunnel and ferry routes nearby, trips to France and beyond are refreshingly straightforward—perfect for weekend adventurers. Or for fun closer to home head into nearby Canterbury or any other of Kent&#8217;s seaside sister towns.</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-want-more">WANT MORE?</h2>



<ul>
<li><a href="Shoreline, Folkestone">Review: Shoreline, Folkestone</a></li>



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7 reasons why we’re all moving to Folkestone

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