Hotels in Folkestone

Folkestone: Where Sea Breezes and Coastal Charm Converge

Nestled along the picturesque Kent coastline, Folkestone is a charming English town where the sea meets history and culture. Stroll along the sandy shores of Folkestone Beach, savoring fresh Kentish fare at lovely pubs overlooking the harbor. Explore the Folkestone Museum to uncover local heritage, or wander through the vibrant Creative Quarter, brimming with art galleries and unique shops. Don’t miss the iconic Folkestone Harbour Arm, a lively waterfront destination perfect for sunset views. With its blend of stunning landscapes and inviting community, Folkestone offers a delightful escape for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Folkestone and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Folkestone

Some of the best places to stay in Folkestone are Canterbury, Rye and Faversham. Canterbury, Rye, and Faversham are fantastic destinations for travelers seeking history and charm. Canterbury is renowned for its stunning cathedral and vibrant culture, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Rye offers picturesque streets and coastal beauty, while Faversham showcases quaint market town vibes. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to comfortable hotels, ensuring a pleasant stay. Whether you prefer boutique hotels or more traditional lodgings, you’ll find suitable options in each town, close to local attractions. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Folkestone:

1. CanterburyOpens in a new window: Canterbury is a city rich in culture, renowned for its stunning Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the vibrant Marlowe Theatre. It’s a delightful blend of history and modernity, making it perfect for both culture enthusiasts and families. For accommodation, consider Villiers RoadOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star guesthouse offering a restaurant and entertainment options including a flatscreen TV. Another great option is Yorke Lodge Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star bed and breakfast that welcomes pets and provides a comfortable stay. For budget travelers, Becket Court - University of Kent - Campus AccommodationOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hostel, offers free daily breakfast and various sports facilities, ensuring a fun-filled experience.
2. RyeOpens in a new window: Rye is a charming coastal town that boasts beautiful beaches like Camber Sands and the historic Great Dixter House and Gardens. It's perfect for outdoor lovers and those seeking a quaint retreat. For hotels, look into Saltcote Place RyeOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star guesthouse ideal for adventure seekers and business travelers alike, featuring unique decor and various recreational activities. Alternatively, The White HouseOpens in a new window, another 5.0-star guesthouse, provides a boutique experience with beautifully designed interiors, while Claverton Country House HotelOpens in a new window offers a luxurious stay with business amenities for corporate guests.
3. FavershamOpens in a new window: Faversham is a picturesque market town known for its proximity to cultural gems like Canterbury Cathedral and Whitstable Beach. This area is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and beach access. For accommodation, Suenos GuesthouseOpens in a new window is a luxurious 5.0-star guesthouse with direct beach access, perfect for beach lovers. Cave Hotel & Golf ResortOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, caters to business travelers and golf enthusiasts, offering meeting rooms and pet-friendly amenities. Lastly, The Sun InnOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star inn, features dining options and entertainment facilities, making it a cozy and convenient choice for visitors.

Things to do in Folkestone for first time

Three days in Folkestone offers a delightful blend of seaside charm and outdoor adventure. Explore beautiful beaches, enjoy hiking along scenic coastal trails, and immerse yourself in local entertainment options. With opportunities for boating and diving, this picturesque destination is perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and activity. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Folkestone:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park and Gardens, where you'll have the chance to encounter exotic animals in a beautiful setting. Spend your morning exploring the park's various habitats and learning about wildlife conservation. Afterward, head to Hythe Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the sea. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore and take in the fresh ocean air. Conclude your day with a visit to Lympne Castle, where you can explore the historic grounds and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at the impressive Dover Castle, a historic fortress with breathtaking views over the English Channel. Explore its fascinating history and visit the Great Tower. Next, make your way to the Roman Painted House, where you can see well-preserved Roman mosaics and learn about the area's ancient history. Finally, unwind at Dover Beach, where you can take a stroll along the pebbled shore and watch the waves roll in as the sun sets.
• Day 3: Start your morning with a hike along the famous White Cliffs of Dover, where you can enjoy spectacular views and the invigorating sea breeze. After taking in the sights, head to Dover Harbour to witness the bustling maritime activity and perhaps catch a ferry in action. Finish your day at Sandgate Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shore or grab a bite at one of the charming beachside cafes, soaking in the last rays of sunshine before wrapping up your Folkestone adventure.

5 tips to find a great Folkestone hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable months to visit Folkestone are January, November, and December, when hotel rates are at their lowest. For a great value for money, it’s recommended to stay for at least 1-2 days to fully experience the main attractions, such as the beautiful beach and scenic seaside. This makes Folkestone a fantastic budget-friendly destination for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Folkestone, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of finding great offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you could find out about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you save on your accommodation in Folkestone.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you remain flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Folkestone.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the downtown area and close to local attractions in Folkestone is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like trains, buses, or taxis to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Folkestone and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Folkestone

Folkestone experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 43.0°F (6.1°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.9°F (17.7°C). November is usually the wettest month. April, July, and August are the peak travel months in Folkestone, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

Folkestone Travel Information