Fall in love with Folkestone
Home to hundreds of artists and makers, Folkestone's Creative Quarter is packed with galleries, independent shops, bars, eateries and studios, including Block 67, which hosts regular free family drop-in workshops. At its heart is Folkestone Quarterhouse - a performing arts venue hosting an eclectic a programme of music, theatre, dance and comedy, as well as festivals including the annual Folkestone Book Festival. Folkestone also boasts the Folkestone Artworks collection - a public exhibition of artworks originally commissioned by Creative Folkestone for Folkestone Triennial, accessible 24/7, 365 days a year.
Sitting above sea level, The Leas is effectively Folkestone’s promenade. With lavish gardens and a bandstand where events take place during the summer, The Leas is also home to The Leas Cliff Hall, which hosts a variety of touring shows. The Leas Lift, a water balanced funicular opened in 1885, was the third hydraulic lift in the world and is now listed as being of historic importance - you can find this along the promenade. On a clear day the French coast can be seen on your journey down to the seafront.
The Lower Leas Coastal Park is one of the best green spaces in the country. Split into differing recreational zones, there are pine avenues and gardens; the largest free adventure play area in the South East; a zig-zag path and amphitheatre; an abundance of wildlife; and access to the beach, making for a great day out for all the family.
Folkestone's Harbour Arm is great place to eat and drink, coming alive during the summer with regular live music and events. Small, independent businesses along the arm give it its unique flavour, with the addition of an on-site bakery and brewery, a regular farmer's market and other seasonal events.