Whitstable and Tankerton: A Coastal Haven for Food, Art & Nature

June 30, 2025

Deaming of a seaside escape that delivers coastal charm, fresh sea air, and a vibrant local scene, all without the chaos of a major tourist resort? Look no further than Whitstable and Tankerton, two coastal towns nestled along the North Kent coast.

Just over an hour from London by train, these two neighbouring gems offer the perfect blend of relaxation, heritage, creativity, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a family break, a romantic weekend, or a solo retreat to recharge, Whitstable and Tankerton offer something for everyone.

A Food Lover’s Paradise

Whitstable’s Famous Oysters

It’s impossible to mention Whitstable without talking about its oysters. Renowned for its native oyster beds since Roman times, Whitstable is still home to a thriving oyster industry. Be sure to visit the Whitstable Oyster Company for a memorable seafood meal by the sea. Or, grab a tray of oysters from one of the beachside shacks and enjoy them with a glass of wine as you watch the waves roll in.

The Oyster Festival is held from the 12^th – 14^th September – all the details are here https://whitstablerocksoysterfestival.com/

Local Cuisine and Independent Eateries

Beyond oysters, Whitstable has an exciting and ever-growing food scene. From locally sourced fine dining to artisan bakeries and quirky cafés, foodies will find plenty to explore:

The Sportsman (Michelin-starred, just outside Whitstable in Seasalter)
Birdies – for French-inspired seafood
Harbour Street Tapas – cosy and intimate
Blueprint Coffee – a hip spot for coffee lovers
Samphire – serving up seasonal British fare

Over in Tankerton, don’t miss:

JoJo’s Tapas – Mediterranean small plates with a sea view
Otto’s – a lovely little bakery/café perfect for brunch
Stunning Scenery & Beach Walks

Whitstable Beach & Harbour

Whitstable’s shingle beach, dotted with colourful beach huts and backed by the quirky Old Neptune Pub (which sits right on the beach), is perfect for a laid-back afternoon. The working harbour adds a touch of authenticity, with fresh seafood stalls and local crafts.

Tankerton Slopes & The Street

Tankerton offers a quieter atmosphere, with grassy slopes rolling down to a wide, family-friendly beach. It’s ideal for a picnic, kite-flying, or watching the world go by. When the tide is out, a unique natural walkway called “The Street” appears, stretching far into the sea, a magical experience for walkers, kids, and photographers alike.

A Thriving Arts and Creative Scene

Whitstable is a haven for creatives. From coastal-inspired paintings to handmade ceramics, you’ll find an abundance of talent here.

Fishslab Gallery and Chappell Contemporary are must-visits for art lovers.
Many of the shops on Harbour Street and the High Street showcase local makers.

Local street art, artist studios, and seasonal craft fairs give Whitstable a bohemian edge.

Independent Shopping & Coastal Finds

Whitstable is packed with independent shops, many of which offer curated homeware, gifts, books, clothes, and art. This is the kind of town where you’ll leave with a beautiful ceramic bowl or a handmade scented candle you didn’t know you needed.

Some favourites include:

Frank – design-led lifestyle and homeware
Gatefield Sounds – an independent record shop
Oxford Street Books – a hidden gem for book lovers
Flory & Black – boutique interiors and gifts

Tankerton is home to many hidden gems too, with its relaxed high street hosting a mix of practical stores and unique independents.

Activities & Things to Do

Whether you want to do a lot or nothing at all, Whitstable and Tankerton have options to suit your pace.

Active Explorers:

Cycle the Crab and Winkle Way – a scenic trail to Canterbury through woodland and countryside.
Kayaking and paddleboarding from the beach (local hire available).
Walking the Saxon Shore Way, which stretches along the coast.

Culture Lovers:

Visit the Whitstable Museum & Gallery to learn about the town’s maritime history.
Catch a show or film at the Horsebridge Arts Centre.

Families:

Tankerton Slopes and beach are ideal for kids, especially during low tide.
Explore rock pools, fly a kite, or build pebble towers.
Visit Wildwood Trust (a short drive away) for a day out among British wildlife.

Easy to Reach, Hard to Leave

One of the great benefits of choosing Whitstable and Tankerton as your holiday destination is how easy they are to get to. 1 hour 20 minutes from London by train, with a station right in the heart of Whitstable, or accessed by car via the M2 and A299. This makes it perfect for a long weekend or last-minute break.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Whitstable and Tankerton

These coastal towns offer that rare combination: beauty, charm, authenticity, and soul. If you’re craving good food, artistic inspiration, time in nature, or a proper break from the everyday grind, Whitstable and Tankerton deliver in spades, without the overwhelming crowds of bigger beach towns.

It’s a place where you can breathe a little deeper, walk a little slower, and leave feeling refreshed.

Somewhere To Stay

If you are looking for an outstanding beach front property complete with indoor heated pool, games room & cinema room, this outstanding property is perfect for family groups, couples, colleagues or retreats. Prepare to be wow’ed https://bookings.keyretreats.co.uk/listings/383880