Whitstable, nestled on Kent’s north coast, is a picturesque seaside town renowned for its oysters, pebbly beach and pastel-coloured beach huts. It has long been cherished as a holiday spot, drawing tourists and delighting residents alike.
And the town is often praised for managing to cling to its local charm despite being celebrated as one of the quickest-growing seaside spots. Andrea Blazquez, lifestyle editor at the Express, decided to spend a weekend at the popular coastal resort to see if it actually has one of the best beaches in the country.
And, after just a few hours, the oyster town officially became one of her “favourite summer spots in England”. Speaking about her “idyllic” weekend getaway, Andrea said: “With its charming town centre filled with cute boutiques and its picturesque beach, Whitstable is the perfect destination for a day trip or even a staycation this summer.
“In Whitstable, I had one of the most idyllic weekend getaways, tasted the freshest seafood, enjoyed the sun at Whitstable Beach, explored the peaceful Tankerton and tried its renowned oysters, which visitors can buy to take away from oyster sheds on the seafront.”
What to see in Whitstable
When visiting Whitstable, exploring the delightful town centre is a must, Andrea said. Here, you’ll find a variety of clothing and gift shops including Seagulls and Flamingos, Mosaic Boutique and Conway and Sons.
On the high street, the iconic Wheelers Oyster Bar – the town’s oldest oyster restaurant – is also a “must-see” in Whitstable. “With its pastel pink façade, the tiny seafood bar is probably one of the most photographed spots in town,” Andrea said.
The iconic Wheelers Oyster Bar is a must-see in Whitstable
(Image: Express)
Meanwhile, she added, Whitstable’s “tranquil waters” make it the “perfect location” to practice water sports with friends and family, such as kayaking and paddle boarding. She continued: “Whitstable has a lovely pebble beach divided by wooden groynes with many restaurants and bars close by, but don’t miss Tankerton Beach, just 15 minutes walking from Whitstable Harbour, with a peaceful promenade and colourful huts.”
Tankerton Beach
(Image: Getty)
Where to eat and drink in Whitstable
When it comes to dining in Whitstable, Andrea once again highlighted Wheelers Oyster Bar as being a “cute family-run restaurant offering great service and delicious seafood”. For the best takeaway oysters, however, she recommended heading to The Oyster Shed or The Forge on the beachfront.
Sunset from Whitstable Beach
(Image: Express)
“And don’t leave without having a drink at the iconic Old Neptune pub while enjoying the most glorious sunset,” she added. Andrea went on to say that beachgoers will find the “most delicious lobsters in a relaxed atmosphere” at The Lobster Shack and the Harbour Garden Cafe.
The Old Neptune is also a must-visit if you’re in Whitstable
(Image: Express)
She said: “For a more formal setting, the Whitstable Oyster Company is an old oyster warehouse transformed into a lovely rustic restaurant, with a great selection of English wines and the best fish and chips in town. Don’t miss the pile of oyster shells by the old wooden boats just outside the restaurant, one of the most Instagrammed spots.
The Whitstable Oyster Company restaurant
(Image: Express/Getty)
“And because a beach day wouldn’t be complete without ice cream, visitors can head to Gelateria Whitstable or Lottie’s Sweet Creams at the end of the day.”
Where to stay in Whitstable
As for accommodation in Whitstable, there are numerous Airbnb, apartments and holiday homes available for rent. But for a more serene experience, Andrea recommends holidaymakers opt for The Hotel Continental or The Marine Hotel, which she says are “both absolutely lovely hotels with a fabulous breakfast”.
Alternatively, the Fisherman’s huts, located by Whitstable Harbour, have “down-to-earth cabins with bay views”.