Indulge in oysters and a rich maritime heritage in the Kentish jewel of Whitstable, a tranquil coastal haven.
Whitstable has blossomed into a popular seaside retreat over the past decade or so, drawing waves of tourists who flock to admire its artistic allure. Most famous for its maritime heritage and oysters, which have been collected here since Roman times, Whitstable itself dates back to before the Domesday Book, where it was mentioned as one of the largest 20% of settlements recorded.
In the 900 years that followed, Whitstable’s location on the Thames Estuary afforded it great fortune in trading goods with London, other coastal ports and eventually the whole world.
The town’s fishing and shipbuilding industries also thrived from this strategic position, which was further relied upon as a naval defence in both world wars. Today, with its bustling working harbour, charming independent cafés, acclaimed eateries, eclectic galleries, and quirky boutiques, Whitstable pulsates with a vibrant cultural energy that has been strengthened over the centuries.
What to do in Whitstable, Seasalter and Tankerton
One of the best ways to delve into Whitstable’s history is at the volunteer-run Whitstable Museum, which prides itself in telling local maritime stories, the town’s oyster and fishing industry, and its most famous display: Invicta, one of the world’s oldest railway locomotives.
Around the high street, visitors will find a plethora of individual boutique shops, selling art works, handmade jewellery, accessories, antiques, maritime gifts and various local craft shops.
There’s also an array of local galleries, including Fishslab Gallery, which hosts an eclectic and varied array of ever-changing exhibitions, covering media from pottery and paintings to sculpture and photography.
Blue Flag-awarded Tankerton Slopes seamlessly merges with Whitstable beach, offering a serene escape for families and friends seeking a day by the shore. Whatever the season, visitors can elevate their seaside experience by renting a beach hut, where they’ll receive front-row seats to the beach’s beautiful vistas. These cosy havens provide a perfect retreat for making a cup of tea, uncorking a bottle of wine, or simply basking in the serenity of the area’s coastal charm.
Some of the most beautiful coastal walks and bike rides can be traversed in this area too, with footpaths and cycle routes available all the way to Canterbury, Faversham and more.
The village of Seasalter is a particularly stunning coastal area, with plenty of routes to explore, as well as its crowning gem: acclaimed Michelin dining destination, The Sportsman. A bastion of culinary excellence, The Sportsman has proudly retained its prestigious Michelin star since 2008.
Blessed by the bounty of the Thames Estuary, its kitchen delights in fresh fish and succulent oysters, while the local marshes, woods, and fertile soil yield a cornucopia of meats, game, fruit, and vegetables. The five-course menu, which changes each day, is showcased on blackboards near the bar, and epitomises exemplary culinary artistry as it seamlessly blends cherished classics with daring innovations.
