I live by one of the UK’s best beaches – it has great pubs, no crowds, views of France…and barely anyone’s heard of it
WHEN I left London for Kent nearly three years ago, the beaches weren’t at the forefront of my mind.
But since living in Folkestone, being a local has also meant finding the quieter beaches – one of which being Sandgate beach.
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The beach was recently named one of the best beaches in the UK, as part of The Times Best 50 Beaches annual awards.
Kent beaches are often overlooked compared to those in Cornwall, Devon and even Scotland with them often being shingle rather than sand.
The study, which looked at more than 500 beaches for things like loos, cleanliness and water quality, described it as having a “cheerful nonchalance”.
It also added: “It’s like visiting an old couple so comfortable in each other’s company that they don’t need to talk any more.”
It was also named one of the best Kent beaches in last year’s Seaside Awards, as well as being named the most in-demand coastal destination by Airbnb back in 2021.
Despite living in Folkestone, I am much nearer to Sandgate which is a short walk from my house.
Even on the hottest day, the beach is never as busy as the main Folkestone beach.
The quieter vibes are definitely due to it’s location – there is no train station and it’s around 30 minutes from the main town.
You are also more likely to find locals rather than tourists, although it is a popular stop off for cyclists and walkers travelling the coastal paths.
But I love it not just for it’s crowds, but everything that comes with it.
Despite it’s name, it is a shingle beach, although I much prefer it to sand which is often dragged home and found weeks later.
And the promenade is nothing special, bar some benches and a shack selling drinks and ice creams.
But the long walk between Sandgate and Folkestone is just as beautiful, with multi-coloured beach huts as part of an art feature along the way.
On a very clear day, you can even spot a bit of France across the water, being a short 35-minute journey across the channel from the nearby Eurotunnel.
It is one of the few Kent beaches which also often has excellent water quality – a rarity to find these days.
And the tiny high street is full of locally-run shops and cafes that are worth visiting.
There is the tiny Mr Whippets, serving coffees and unique snacks such as Pimms cakes, as well as Loaf for a classic cup of tea and sandwich.
For sea views, The Famous Ship Inn shouldn’t be missed, and visit on the first Thursday of the month for it’s pub quiz.
Want something a bit fancier? Then John Dory has some of best wines, with knowledgeable staff happy to help out.
And a trip to the seaside is nothing without some fish and chips, so head over to The Little Fish Shop to take them onto the seafront.
So if you are fancying a trip to the seaside without the crowds or frills, then Sandgate needs to be on your list.
I’ve also found an often overlooked beach in Margate – here’s how to find it.
