Whitstable
South East England, Kent
With its busy fishing port filled with colorful sailing boats, long pebble beach, and rows of painted wooden beach huts, Whitstable is a prime example of a traditional English seaside resort. Known for its locally harvested oysters, Whitstable is a popular day-trip destination from London and nearby Canterbury, as well as an easy stop-off point on White Cliffs of Dover trips.
The Basics
Best known for its native oyster dining scene, there’s plenty more to see, do, and eat in Whitstable, Kent. The bohemian seaside town is also home to a burgeoning arts scene; many great cafés, pubs, and restaurants; the 18th-century Whitstable Castle; and the lively Whitstable Harbour Village, where artists, artisans, farmers, and fishermen sell their wares along the seafront. It’s easy to reach Whitstable independently from London and Canterbury and explore on foot or by bike.
Things to Know Before You Go
Whitstable is a great family-friendly destination on the Kent coast, within easy reach of London.
Pack hats, sunblock, and comfortable shoes if visiting in summer, when Whitstable can get surprisingly hot.
Whitstable is home to a selection of independent stores, supermarkets, and souvenir shops.
While Whitstable’s pebble beach is not accessible to wheelchair users, much of the town and its attractions are.
How to Get There
Whitstable is just a 20-minute drive or a 50-minute bus ride from Canterbury, and a short 1.5-hour train ride from London, some 65 miles (105 kilometers) away. Trains depart regularly from both London Victoria and London St. Pancras bound for Whitstable and beyond. Whitstable is also easy to reach by car from the rest of surrounding South East England and there are a few parking lots in and around the town center.
When to Get There
Whitstable is a great year-round destination, but most travelers prefer to visit in the temperate summertime rather than during the often cold and blustery winter months. If you love oysters, don’t miss the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival which is typically held in late-July. Alternatively, come by midweek in summer to avoid the largest weekender crowds.
Whitstable Oysters
Protected under the UK’s Protected Geographical Indication status, Whitstable Oysters have been harvested off the town’s coast since the Roman times. Now, you’ll find fresh oysters for sale in oyster bars and seafood restaurants throughout the town, alongside an abundance of other local and fresh seafood. Try them raw with a splash of lemon or go for grilled oysters with garlic butter.
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