A Complete Guide To Whitstable, England

Whitstable is a seaside town on the north coast of Kent, a county in the south east of England. Famous for its oysters and its free-spirited, artistic vibe, it offers visitors a charming slice of small-town Britain. Along with quirk accommodation and independent shops, Whitstable is a town full of friendly locals that are always up for a natter in one of its many pubs. Either as a day trip from London or a relaxing weekend away, this coastal location offers rest and relaxation alongside a generous helping of nostalgia. Here is everything you need to know about Whitstable.

Getting There

Whitstable is ideally situated for those looking to escape the city, with high speed trains from St Pancras taking just 1 hour and 15 minutes. Here are more details along with some other popular destinations within easy reach.

Travelling From	Journey Duration	Changes	Trains Per Day	Cost
London St Pancras	From 1h15m	0	33	From £9.90
London Victoria	From 1h32m	0	18	From £9.90
Margate	From 21m	0	49	From £7.90
Canterbury	From 48m	1	26	From £8.40

To check out specific train times and prices, visit thetrainline.com

Parking

If you’re travelling by car parking isn’t always easy, particularly during the busy summer months. The main car park is Gorell Tank, which is large at 204 spaces, but thanks to its prime location right by the harbour it can often fill up quick. Another long-stay option is the train station car park, where you’ll only have to pay around £3 for the day and walk 10 minutes or so into town.

There are a few other smaller car parks along Harbour Street and Middle wall, but they are all short-stay, so probably not the best option. Whitstable gets so busy with cars that some people even choose to go and park in Tankerton, about a 20 minute walk away. I would recommend coming by public transport if you can, or opting for accommodation that has free parking included.

Where To Stay In Whitstable

As there is such a fantastic choice of holiday apartments and B&Bs in Whitstable, I’ve actually never stayed in a hotel. However, I’ve included one in the list below that looks to be a solid choice, along with some other holiday rentals that I’ve either stayed in or admired.

Whitstable Fisherman’s Huts

This unique accommodation is super popular in Whitstable, offering the chance to stay right on the beach. The huts were once used as stores for cockle farmers, and have been on the beach for more than 130 years. They may look traditional from the outside, but inside the Whitstable Fisherman’s Huts have been completely modernised, giving you simple, beautiful interiors along with seaside views.

As the Fisherman’s Huts are operated by Hotel Continental you don’t miss out on the hotel experience, and can head over there in the mornings for a buffet breakfast (though it is a little pricey – see below). Another benefit with the huts is the included parking, which can sometimes be a challenge with the residential holiday lets.

Hotel Continental

If you would rather stay in a hotel then you can’t go too far wrong with this 3-star beachfront accommodation. Its rooms are fairly small and basic, but clean and tastefully decorated. This is another one with free parking, although some reviews mention that it’s only for 24 hours, and it is in easy reach of both the train station and the centre of town.

Hotel Continental also has the added benefit of its own bar and brasserie, with an outdoor seating area on the ground floor that offers beautiful views of the beach. Their breakfast is very highly rated, but at £16.95 extra per person, per night, you might prefer to head into town instead. Overall, it’s a great option for individuals or couples who plan on mostly being out and about, and who have no intention of cooking any of their own meals.

The Lobster Pot

This stylish holiday home is probably the best option for families or small groups, with 3 bedrooms sleeping up to 6 people. The Lobster Pot is a fisherman’s cottage that has been beautifully decorated and also has its own garden. It’s in a prime location just minutes from the beach, and if you’re lucky enough to find a space, there is free parking on three of the roads around it.

The owners Harriet and Adam have thought of everything, with TVS, a Bose sound system, a DVD player and even a record player with some old vinyl to keep everyone entertained. The open plan living space is perfect for spending evenings hanging out with a few glasses of wine, watching films or playing games, with a long burner to ensure everyone is cosy in the winter months. Bright, clean and comfortable, The Lobster Pot has nothing but glowing reviews online, making it a safe bet for your next Whitstable holiday rental.

Whitstable Tree House Retreat

For a holiday rental packed full of artistic charm, look no further than the Whitstable Tree House Retreat. Just a stone’s throw away from the harbour, this quaint 2 bedroom cottage is owned by local artist John Butterworth and is full of vintage finds, handmade objects and found objects from the Whitstable beaches. John goes to great lengths to ensure that guests enjoy their stay, providing staple items like bread, eggs and milk along with personal touches like fresh cut flowers.

Whitstable Tree House Retreat is absolutely packed with character, and there’s obviously been a lot of love put into it over the years. Despite its prime location, the cottage is off on a quiet side street making for a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. It also comes with its own small but leafy garden, packed full of apple pear and fig trees – ideal for enjoying breakfast out in the sun or a cold glass of wine when the sun begins to set. As with most of the holiday lets in town, on-street parking is free if you are able to nab a space.

For rates, information and to book online, head to booking.com

Shops In Whitstable

One of the things I like so much about Whitstable is that walking down the high street is almost like going back in time. While there are the usual suspects when it comes to big chains, there are few other places in England where you’ll find quite so many independent shops. Here are a few that I can never resist popping into.

The Whiting Post

This quirky clothing shop sells pieces with a coastal, vintage vibe. It’s packed full of their hand-picked pieces from brands like Emily and Fin, Sugarhill and Run And Fly (I’m actually obsessed with their bee print dungarees) and offer up something really different from your usual high street shop. They’ve got a huge selection and the staff are always happy to help, making for an enjoyable shopping experience and the chance to find something really special. The owners also happen to own a couple of beautiful holiday apartments on the high street, also great options for an overnight stay.

Harbour Books

As a former bookseller, I can never resist a good book shop, and Harbour Books is up there with the best. It sadly had to shut its doors in March 2020 after 25 years in town, but has since been bought by new owners who gave it a full refurbishment. The small shop is set over two floors and covers all genres of books along with greeting cards, stationery and gift wrap. It now has a kids section in the back and the new owners hope to soon start hosting the literary events, book clubs and poetry readings that Harbour Books was known for.

Harbour Market

Down at the harbour you’ll also find a small market, whose vendors set up shop in individual fisherman’s huts. It’s the perfect spot to find gifts and souvenirs, with handmade jewellery, home decor and prints, postcards from local photographers and more. It’s always nice to find something different and support independent business owners along the way, and I’d highly recommend taking a look. Many of the artists and makers man their stall themselves, and they’re always up for a chat about their work, making the experience all the more special. You can find a full list of all the traders here.

Some of the huts are home to even more food options, including one with Thai food and another that does soft-shell crab burgers that are absolutely to die for. Perfect if you’re looking to grab a casual bite to enjoy down on the beach. although if it’s oysters you’re after I’ve got some more recommendations for you down below.

Pubs In Whitstable

If there’s one thing there’s no shortage of in Whitstable, it’s pubs, and I think I’ve had a drink at every single one! Below are a few of the best.

The Black Dog

One of my favourite places for a beer in town, The Black Dog not only has an incredible interior but a really great selection of drinks. Located right on the high street, the tiny space is packed wall to wall with paintings, nick-nacks and other curiosities making for a truly unique setting. As far as drinks go, they have an equally unusual selection, including an extensive cider menu with flavours like elderflower, salted caramel and toffee apple. The beer menu is always changing, and you’re bound to find something you’ve never heard of before, though for non-beer drinkers there are select wines, gins and homemade cordial on offer too.

Don’t let the gothic exterior put you off – The Black Dog is a very friendly and welcoming place as long as you follow the few simple house rules (“Easy on the swearing. No nasty opinions. Be nice”!) If you love it as much as I do, you can even take home a Black Dog t-shirt as a souvenir.

The Old Neptune

Situated right on the beach, the Old Neptune is a Whitstable icon, and for good reason. Known by locals as the Neppy, this Victorian pub not only has an unrivalled location but also a long list of celebrity clientele.

The original building was actually washed away back in 1897 following a large storm. The building that you see today was built using timber from the original beer house as well as other cottages that had been destroyed by the weather. If you look closely, you may notice that the floor, window frames and counter tops are slightly titled, owing to the building’s movement on top of its old wooden foundations.

Equally as popular with locals, the Old Neptune has a traditional pub interior, a great selection of beers and ales and live music every weekend. The Old Neptune is perhaps the most popular pub in town, and on nights when music is playing you may even struggle to get in the door!

The Ship Centurion

This is a classic British ‘old man’ pub, and those are often the very best kind! The Ship Centurion is a traditional, no-frills boozer located on Whitstable high street, where there’s been an inn on the site since 1750 (look out for the old photos inside!) Even though it is in many ways a typical pub, it is made a little special by its fusion of traditional English and German food and drinks. This is down to its previous owners, Jan and Armin Birks, who bought the Ship in 1996.

Today it is run by their son, Roland, and is a real regulars spot, serving up traditional pub grub along with Bratwurst, Schnitzel and other German delights. They are well known for their excellent beer selection and always have some great options on tap – although if you want to try a German beer I’d definitely go for the Erdinger over the Krombacher.

Things To Do In Whitstable

I’ll be honest, my favourite thing to do in Whitstable is eat, drink and have a mooch around the shops. But if you’re in search of an activity there’s enough to keep you entertained over a weekend.

Take The Coastal Walk To Herne Bay

You may not get the same sweeping views as a coastal walk in Devon or Dorset, but if you’re looking for a pleasant and not-too-challenging stroll by the beach, this is great way to spend a couple of hours. Head down to the harbour and take a right and you’ll soon find yourself on the path. On the way, you’ll pass plenty of colourful beach huts that make for a fantastic photo op, and you can enjoy the sound of the crashing waves as you make your way along the shore.

From Whitstable to Herne Bay is about 5 miles, with a clearly laid out and well-kept path leading you all the way. If you fancy a shorter walk, you can always turn around once you reach Tankerton (perhaps stopping off at The Royal before you make your way back…)

Visit The Whitstable Castle & Gardens

Once a family home in the late 1790s, Whitstable Castle is now owned by a trust. It’s completely free to visit, and you can even have a volunteer show you around. Don’t go in expecting anything too grand, as in truth it is really more of a manor house, but it’s a great way to while away a morning or afternoon admiring the traditional surroundings.

There is a cute little cafe on site that does lovely cakes, coffees and afternoon tea. They also have seasonal events like Christmas At The Castle, antique fairs and a rather intriguing Murder Mystery night that they run on a regular basis.

Take A Boat Trip To The Maunsell Forts

If you look at the art on Harbour Market you can’t miss the countless photos and paintings of some peculiar structures jutting out of the water. These are the Maunsell Forts, armed towers built in WWII to help protect the Kentish shores. They are now in varying states of decay and can only be viewed by boat, which you can do so for the princely sum of £40 with Whitstable Boat Trips. If the forts don’t really appeal, they also offer short, 15-minute boat rides around Whitstable Bay or a 45-minute tour to Swale to see the local seal colony.

All the trips are carried out on a 14-passenger SiteSeeker, ensuring a personal experience in the hands of knowledgeable locals. As the groups are fairly small, however, it’s advised to book your spot ahead of time.

Where To Eat In Whitstable

If you love fish, then you’ve come to the right place. Unsurprisingly thanks to its coastal location, Whitstable is packed full of incredible independent seafood restaurants, along with plenty of others serving up pub grub, tapas, modern British and more. You’d have to spend weeks in Whitstable to try out every one, but below you will find just a few top picks in town.

Wheeler’s

I couldn’t write about Whitstable without mentioning Wheeler’s, even though I’ve never been able to get a reservation! instantly recognisable for its pink frontage, Wheeler’s is the town’s oldest restaurant and has a tiny interior that houses just a few tables. Naturally, there are always oysters on the menu alongside a range of tempting fish dishes from king prawn lasagne to monkfish and shellfish laksa.

Everything is cooked using produce freshly caught by local fishermen, and judging by the reviews you can really taste the difference. As you would expect with seafood, it’s a little on the pricier side, but Wheeler’s is a Whitstable institution that’s not to be missed – if you can nab a table, that is! If you can’t, they also offer plenty of more casual takeaway options that you can take down to enjoy on the beach.

Tudor Tea Rooms

Right on the high street, the Tudor Tea Rooms has a timber-beamed interior with a traditional set up and a classic English team room vibe. Online the food has received mixed reviews, but I have had breakfast and cake here on a few occasions and it has always been top notch (with a few veggie breakfast options which always gets the thumbs up from me). In the summer they also open up their garden, where there’s an additional 35 seats, perfect for enjoying a fluffy scone piled high with clotted cream and one of the restaurant’s many speciality teas. For me it’s definitely more of a place for breakfast or a sandwich at lunch, and admittedly if I was going for dinner in Whitstable I’d probably go elsewhere. However, if you’re looking for a home-cooked meal this might be the place for you.

JoJo’s

This is another one I haven’t visited but had to include simply because it’s been recommended so many times and comes exceptionally highly reviewed. Located down towards Tankerton, JoJo’s doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside you’ll find a stylish restaurant serving up Mediterranean-style mezze. It’s run by a husband and wife team, with a changing seasonal menu promising tempting dishes like homegrown filled courgette flowers, chargrilled mackerel fillets and mutton and feta koftas. After what I’ve heard from locals, an evening at JoJo’s is definitely on the cards on my next visit to Whitstable.

Birdies

This family-run French bistro is another fantastic option for fish. Birdie’s was bought in 1993 by chef couple Philip and Sue Colthup, and has a charming wood panelled and gingham tableclothed interior that gives it a traditional and cosy ambience. The menu completely based around fresh and local produce, from the fish to the vegetables and everything in between. Though they are known for their seafood, you’ll also find other options on the menu like fillet of beef wellington with a red wine jus and panko deep fried cheese. They also offer a lunch set menu which is excellent value for money.

Where To Try Oysters In Whitstable

A trip to this seaside town wouldn’t be complete without eating some delicious, fresh oysters. I know these slimy little sea creatures divide opinion, but if you’ve never had them fresh from the sea before you really must give it a try. Luckily, in Whitstable you needn’t spend a fortune, with several cheaper options alongside the fancier fish restaraunts.

West Whelks/Whitstable Harbour Oyster Store

If you want a no-fuss way to try oysters without having to order an entire plate, you’ll find this little stand on the harbour that sells single rock oysters for £1 or native oysters for £1.50 – the cheapest place in town. Just squeeze on a bit of lemon and add a couple of drops of Tabasco sauce and you are good to go. Sure, it’s not the most glamorous place, but it’s a great spot to give oysters a try without breaking the bank. Even though it is only a stall, there is a small seating area where you can sit and watch the boats go by as you enjoy your freshly caught fish.

The Forge

Another no-frills option right by the beach is The Forge, a simple wooden shack that sells all kinds of seafood along with ice cream, donut and drinks. Of course, the star of the show is the oysters, which you can see generously displayed on ice behind the counter. The Forge guarantee that all of their oysters are of the genuine Whitstable variety, not inferior imposters, and they usually have a few different types available to order. If you like you can just order a single one, or you can get a plate of half a dozen with some freshly sliced lemon to squeeze over the top. The price varies depending on size and variety, with the most expensive, a large Royal Native oyster setting you back £4 a pop.

Is Whitstable Worth Visiting?

As you may have gathered by reading this post, Whitstable is one of my favourite places to visit in England. So in my opinion, it’s a resounding yes! It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what it is that makes this seaside town so special, but there’s something about it that keeps you coming back for more. It could be the seaside air, or the collection of talented and welcoming locals that make it so unique. Whatever it is, I hope it stays that way for many more years to come.

Pin It!