Discover the Best Things to Do in Whitstable
Top Whitstable Attractions
Whitstable is a picturesque seaside town in Kent and offers a range of activities and sites for visitors of all ages. From water sports to exploring local art galleries, this guide highlights the best things to do in and around town, ensuring your stay at Kiora holiday home is filled
with memorable experiences.
Whitstable Town & Harbour
Whitstable is a charming and unique seaside town that has changed over recent years, from an authentic and slightly scruffy Kentish maritime community with sea water running through its veins, to a chic foodie destination and artist's community. Walk around the old part of the high street and browse in some of the quirky little independently run shops.
Crab & Winkle Way
The Crab & Winkle Way is part of National Cycle Network Route 1 and links Canterbury with Whitstable. The route is mostly traffic-free, following the path of the old Crab and Winkle Railway line. On the way you travel through Blean Woods, one of the largest areas of ancient broadleaved woodland in southern Britain. The route ends near Whitstable railway station, but links with the Oyster Bay Trail to provide a route through to the Harbour.
Playhouse Theatre
The Playhouse Whitstable, run by the local theatre group Lindley Players, is a key cultural venue in Whitstable. Established post-World War II, it transitioned from a church to a theatre in 1982. Known for high-quality amateur productions, it boasts modern sound and lighting systems. It shows a variety of performances throughout the year, including drama and pantomime, making it a must-visit for those exploring Whitstable.
T: +44 (0) 1227 272 042
Horsebridge Arts Centre
The Horsebridge Arts and Community Centre is located in the heart of Whitstable on a site which has a long tradition of community and cultural activity. Since its launch in April 2004, the Horsebridge has established itself as a quality venue at the heart of arts, social, learning and leisure activities in Whitstable and the wider north east Kent area. The Horsebridge Centre has a packed programme of events all year round that includes ground floor galleries, workshops, cafe with balcony and a large performance space for theatre, screenings, talks and live music.
T: +44 (0) 1227 281 174
Fish Slab Gallery
Located on Whitstable's High Street The Fish Slab Gallery is a not-for-profit enterprise which showcases local artists throughout the year. There's always something new going on at the gallery, and though it's small, it's well worth a visit if you're near the High Street. All sorts of work are displayed, from photography and painting to sculpture, and there's usually someone at hand to welcome you in and talk about the work.
Sailing & Windsurfing
One of the best locations to windsurf in Kent, as long as there's an easterly or westerly wind you're in for a treat. There is a good launch site from the beach left of the harbour in Whitstable, as well as a flat area which is exposed at low tide and is perfect for beginners in low winds. Whitstable is a prime spot for windsurfing and nothing is more testament to that than the world speed record set here by Mark Tuckwood.
Cycling
There is no better way to explore the delights of the coast than by bicycle or on foot. The charming and varied coastline offers some of the most scenic coastal cycle routes around. There is something for everyone, whether it's a refreshing short break, a fun family day out or simply a challenge, cyclists can enjoy a refreshing and enriching experience
Duncan Down
Duncan Down is the largest green space in Whitstable. Originally earmarked for housing in the 1930s, the land is now protected as a village green, providing opportunities for people to relax, enjoy the wildlife and appreciate the magnificent view across the coastline of Whitstable bay. The woodland, scrubland, grassland and stream provide a mosaic of habitats from which both people and wildlife benefit.
Boat Trips on the Greta
The historic Thames sailing barge Greta was launched in 1892 and was one of the Dunkirk ‘Little Ships’. It is the oldest working ship of all the Dunkirk little ships. The Greta trips start from Whitstable Harbour around the Thames Estuary. The crew can sail while you sit back and relax, or you can, with the permission of the skipper. With her 90 foot mast, this is a boat trip with a difference. Subject to availability and the weather, the Greta can be booked on most days for individuals and be chartered for up to twelve passengers.
Chestfield Golf Course
Chestfield Golf Club, located near Whitstable, offers stunning views over the Thames Estuary and the Swale. With origins dating back to the Domesday Book, the club's grounds are steeped in history, providing a place of rest and hospitality since the time of William the Conqueror. The current clubhouse, dating from the 15th century, has been restored to feature a lounge bar, Spike bar and a restaurant. The golf course opened in 1924 and has evolved significantly, with recent redesigns by golf architect Donald Steel enhancing its layout. Managed by a member-elected committee, Chestfield offers a blend of traditional and modern golfing.
The Street
Extending out from Tankerton Beach, The Street is a shingle strip about half a mile long that’s exposed at low tide. Follow your Victorian forebears as you walk out to the end, with the estuary’s waters on either side. Standing right out at sea you can look back on the shingle beach and wooden groynes, reminiscent of an England that is so familiar in postcards of old, and even search the shingle for fossils!
