We’re always ahead of the curve. Why do we say that? Only because we at Time Out named Folkestone our top place to visit in the UK earlier this year, and now, based on statistics gathered on social media, the same town has been deemed one of the most up-and-coming beach destinations in the entire world.
According to research from travel agent Planet Cruise, TikTok searches for the southeast English coastal town have gone up 1,000 percent in the past month or so. Yes, with three zeros. And no, it wasn’t previously at one or two, in fact Folkestone reached 241,000 individual searches on the social media app. Not too bad for a little coastal village.
Other spots named as up-and-coming by the cruise specialists included Seven Mile Beach in Jamaica, Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, and Greece’s Paros. Although Folkestone can’t offer the weather of the Caribbean or the Pacific islands, we like to think it has its own sort of charm. Plus, if you’re already in Britain, it’s far more accessible.
So why is Folkestone having such a moment? The experts at Planet Cruise reckon it’s partially thanks to its location, noting that the Kent town is a popular ‘coastal getaway, particularly among Londoners’, and that it offers ‘easy access to the nearby White Cliffs of Dover, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration’.
And we couldn’t agree more. Folkestone is not just a nice beach with a view of France (on a clear day), it’s full of cute cafes, boutiques and indie shops, and, this year, it’s hosting its prestigious art triennial and getting back its century-old funicular. Culture, good food, and a sea breeze. What more can you ask for?
If you are planning a staycation to the south coast sometime soon, there’s a lot to pack in. You can find our recommendations for a perfect Kent holiday here. Or, alternatively, stay in Folkestone the whole time if you’re in need of some intensive rest and relaxation. The world (Kent) is truly your oyster.
Relaxing by the sea with Time Out
If Folkestone is. Luckily, we at Time Out know all the best ones. Here’s our roundup of the best beaches in the UK, and our list of the best beaches in the world if you’re looking for international shores.
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