Folkestone is now the top UK place to visit in 2025, according to Time Out. This follows its recognition by The Sunday Times as the best place to live in the South East. Folkestone has changed from a quiet seaside town to a lively cultural and economic center.
Key Takeaways
Folkestone has been named as the top UK destination for 2025 by Time Out due to its cultural and economic revival.
- Folkestone's transformation into a vibrant cultural hub with attractions like The Harbour Arm and Creative Quarter is drawing visitors from across the country.
- The tourism boom in Folkestone has led to increased economic activity, job creation, and demand for local businesses.
- Despite challenges, Folkestone remains committed to sustainable growth through projects such as the reopening of the historic Leas Lift.
Cultural and coastal revival
For a long time, Folkestone was not well-known, often ignored for other popular coastal spots. But with new projects, a growing arts scene, and a buzzing food culture, it’s become a top spot for those looking for relaxation and culture. Its lovely beaches, colourful streets, and small independent shops make it a fun and inviting place that attracts visitors from all over the UK and beyond.
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The Harbour Arm is a key part of Folkestone’s new look. What was once an old railway pier is now a vibrant social space with food stalls, live music, and amazing sea views. Here, you can enjoy dishes from street food vendors or dine at places like Rocksalt, known for its fresh seafood and beautiful waterfront views. The Harbour Arm perfectly blends the old with the new, offering experiences that locals and visitors love.
The Creative Quarter is another must-see. It's a spot for independent artists, designers, and businesspeople. Found along the Old High Street, it's full of boutique shops, galleries, and cafes in colourful buildings. This artistic revival gives Folkestone a distinctive charm, making it stand out from typical seaside towns. Public art by famous artists such as Antony Gormley and Cornelia Parker adds to the town's visual appeal.
Tourism boom and economic impact
Folkestone's rise as a top UK holiday destination has boosted its economy, especially in tourism and hospitality. Hotels, B&Bs, and holiday lets are busier than ever, with many seeing record occupancy rates. This uptick in visitors has increased demand for local businesses, benefiting restaurants, shops, and cultural spots.
The tourism boom has also created more jobs in different areas. Restaurants, cafés, and hotels have hired more staff to handle the visitor surge, and the town’s event spaces and venues are adding new roles to support their growing schedules. This means more demand for skilled workers in hospitality, customer service, and tourism, solidifying Folkestone's role in the UK’s coastal economy.
Still, not all development plans have received the green light. The Folkestone and Hythe District Council rejected some harbor redevelopment plans, sparking debates about the town's future growth. Some saw the plans as a potential economic boost, while others worried about over-commercialization and its effects on the town's heritage. This decision shows a cautious approach to growth, aiming to keep Folkestone's changes sustainable and resident-friendly.
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Despite these hurdles, the town is moving ahead with notable restoration projects. One exciting project is the reopening of the historic Leas Lift, a funicular railway linking the town's upper and lower levels. Opened in 1885 and closed in 2016 for safety issues, the lift is set to reopen in 2025 after a successful fundraising campaign and a £4.8 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This project shows Folkestone's dedication to preserving its history whilst meeting modern needs.
Future prospects and cultural highlights
Folkestone’s changing cultural scene is a big draw for visitors. The town has built a reputation for its love of the arts. Events like the Folkestone Triennial have made it a cultural hotspot. This art festival, one of the UK’s top public art events, turns the town into an outdoor gallery. You’ll find large sculptures and installations from famous artists. Returning in 2025, the event is expected to attract art lovers and boost tourism even more.
Apart from art, the town has lots of activities for visitors. The Lower Leas Coastal Park is a great green space along the shore. It has walking trails, play areas, and picnic spots, perfect for families. Kingsnorth Gardens, an urban park with flower beds and ponds, offers a peaceful break right near the town centre.
Folkestone’s popularity is also due to its accessibility. Just under an hour by train from London, the town is a convenient escape for city residents. Plus, being near the Eurotunnel makes it a good stop for travelers going to or from Europe, adding to its global appeal.