Whitstable day trip: things to do and My recommendations

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When it comes to a day trip from London, Whitstable should definitely be on your list. We spent a day there recently, and honestly, it was such a great escape from the city.

The first thing you notice is how relaxed the pace feels. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time, enjoy the sea breeze, and just unwind.

Whitstable has a lot to offer, whether you’re into walking along the beach, exploring the town’s cute little shops, or diving into the local food scene (I mean, the oysters are a must-try!). The seaside town has that perfect mix of coastal charm and laid-back vibes that makes it a real hidden gem. It’s also incredibly easy to get to from London, which is always a bonus when you’re planning a quick getaway (which we always do last minute lol).

If you’re craving a day by the sea, Whitstable will deliver. So here’s what I recommend to have the best day in this stunning European seaside town!

Is a Day Trip to Whitstable Worth It?

Absolutely! We loved our day trip to Whitstable. It’s one of those places that feels like a refreshing break from city life. And I definitely need that sometimes ahah!

If you’re looking for a change of pace, this charming seaside town delivers just that. The atmosphere is slower and more relaxed, which is perfect if you want to escape the hustle and bustle for a bit.

Plus, there’s the sea! There’s something about being by the water that makes everything feel a bit more peaceful, at least for us! Whether you’re into long walks along the beach or just fancy some good food with a view, Whitstable is a solid choice for a day out. We found it to be the perfect place to unwind, and I think you’ll feel the same.

How to Get to Whitstable

The easiest way to get to Whitstable from London is by train. It takes about an hour and a half, and I recommend taking the Southeastern train. We bought our tickets the day before, but if I’m honest, I think we could have saved a few pounds by booking a bit earlier.

The total for two of us was around £70, so it’s not too pricey for a lovely day out. Once you arrive, it’s just a 10-minute walk from the train station to the seaside and town centre. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a sunny day, it makes the trip even better. And if you’re feeling brave, you can bring your beach gear to take a dip though the water is pretty cold (I only dipped my feet and my husband didn’t even try haha)!

Things to Do in Whitstable

Walk Along the Seaside to Tankerton On Sea

One of the highlights of our day was the walk along the seaside to Tankerton On Sea. It’s such a beautiful, relaxing walk with views that make you stop for a moment just to take it all in. You can either walk or cycle the route, and along the way, you’ll see rows of colorful seaside cabins.

They add a nice pop of color to the coastal scenery and make the walk that much more picturesque. It’s a nice relaxing stretch, and it’s worth doing it even if you don’t go all the way.

Check Out the Market

Whitstable’s market is small but definitely worth checking out. It’s right at the beginning of the seaside area. You’ll find seaside-themed paintings, homemade crafts, and other cute finds. We wandered around and there was even a local choir singing on the stage. So it was quite cool.

Have Oysters

When you’re in Whitstable, having oysters is practically a must. that’s the first thing we noticed during our visit.

They’re famous for them, and there are plenty of small restaurants and food stalls where you can get your fill. Even if you’re not typically an oyster fan, I recommend giving them a try here as they are super fresh. They’re fresh and well-prepared, and they add to the overall Whitstable experience.

Check Out the Port

The port in Whitstable is home to mostly working and fishing boats, but you’ll also spot a few sailboats bobbing in the water and by the beach. You really can’t miss them! There is also a local boat tour that takes you around which can be a great option if you don’t get seasick.

Have Lunch At The Harbor Garden Cafe

For lunch, we decided to go for The Harbor Garden Cafe which is located right on the port. I went with the lobster roll, and it was absolutely delicious! There was plenty of lobster, and the flavors were perfectly balanced. Eric ordered the fish and chips, which were also pretty good.

We ate outside, enjoying the fresh sea air with the view on the port. The restaurant is equipped with wind panels so it was actually very comfortable.

There are plenty of seafood options around, so you won’t have trouble finding something tasty. Whether you’re into lobster, fish and chips, or anything in between, Whitstable’s got you covered when it comes to seafood.

You will also find a lot of restaurants and pubs that serve your usual English dishes. So if you’re not a big fan of seafood, you’ll be able to go for pizza, burgers and other more common foods.

Get Ice Cream

You can’t go wrong with ice cream in Whitstable! There are several ice cream trucks along the seaside, so it’s easy to grab a cone while you’re exploring.

Have a Drink at the Marine Hotel

If you make your way to Tankerton On Sea, don’t miss the chance to grab a drink at the Marine Hotel. It’s got a great view of the sea, and you can sit outside, which is quite nice if the weather’s good. The hotel is a lovely spot to relax, sip on a drink, and enjoy the surroundings. Whether you’re winding down after your walk or just stopping by for a break, it’s a peaceful place to take it all in.

Visit the Town Centre

The town centre of Whitstable has plenty of shops to browse and explore. We went there last on our way back to the train station. You’ll find a mix of local boutiques and food spots, and there’s even some beautiful murals to check out while you’re wandering.

It’s the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs or grab a snack before heading back to the train station. Don’t forget to look around as you walk through; there’s always something interesting to discover!

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