Local sightseeing
Habour Street
Great spots on or near Harbour Street include Frank, Blueprint coffee, Vita stores, Grain and Hearth, the Old Coal Yard, Harbour Books, Whitstable Oyster Company, and Wheelers Oyster Bar to name but a few!
West Beach Tennis Courts & West Beach
Last time we checked these courts were free and you can turn up without booking. Great location, just beyond the Old Neptune. Keep walking along the seafront to reach West Beach and admire the colourful huts.
Harbour Market
More independent market stalls set up in little huts, at the far end of town. A great spot to pick up fresh fish for the BBQ.
Whitstable Castle
Whitstable Castle & Gardens is a 15 - 20 minute walk along the coast from the cottage. It has a children’s play area, tea room, pleasant garden and, of course, a castle (albeit quit a small one!)
Greta Sailing Barge
Also on our to-do list.. sailing on one of the oldest functioning Thames barges, built in 1892. Greta sails between May and October, weekday and weekend trips are available. It’s pricey but looks amazing. Book online
Maunsell Forts
Abandoned WWII sea forts that you can visit via a number of boat trips form the main harbour, often combined with seal spotting and the wind farm. Still on our to-do list!
Day trips
Canterbury
Just 15-20 minutes drive, we suggest heading there early, visiting the incredible cathedral whilst its quiet, then taking a punt down the River Stour. We went with The Canterbury Punting Company with young kids and a dog, it was great!
Faversham, Standard Quay
Head to Standard quay for antiques and vintage homeware. There’s beautiful old warehouses full of all sorts, fun eateries, easy parking, and you can stroll into the historic market town center.
Margate
Wide sandy beaches perfect for kids, a cute historic centre with loads of food options, the turner contemporary and, of course, dreamland!
Broadstairs
35 minute drive, another really great sandy beach day that’s very family friendly. Morelli’s ice cream parlour, bandstands, colourful huts.. super quaint and traditional
The Pig at Bridge Place
If you have a car this is lovely spot for a lunch and a stroll through the kitchen garden. There’s also the Potting Shed Treatment Rooms, where you can book a range of treatments including massages and facials. The hotel is 25 minute drive away, just beyond Canterbury. Book well in advance.