Along the picturesque coastline of Kent, England, Whitstable stands as a captivating seaside town with its own charm. But what makes Whitstable so special? From its idyllic beaches and rich maritime history to its renowned seafood delicacies and quirky boutiques, Whitstable is a charming destination that offers a peaceful escape from the business of the city life, making it the perfect choice for a day out or a weekend getaway.
While we adore living in London, there’s a certain charm in hopping on a train for a quick journey of under 2 hours to enjoy a fantastic day out in Whitstable. Come along on a fantastic day out in Whitstable, where we’ll explore seafood delights, walks along the seafront and breathtaking sunsets.
A day out in Whitstable: the oyster capital of the UK
When in Whitstable, it’s impossible not to talk about oysters. Known as the “Pearl of the Sea”, Whitstable’s oysters are legendary. Oysters have held a special place in Whitstable’s history for centuries, continuing to play a pivotal role in the town’s commerce and culture.
Why Whitstable oysters are the real deal
Did you know that Native Oysters have been harvested from Whitstable Bay since Roman times? The unique blend of fresh and saltwater in the bay lends these oysters a distinct taste – a delightful mix of sweet and salty. This flavour alone will make your day trip to Whitstable truly unforgettable.
Interestingly, Whitstable farms two types of oysters: the Native Oyster, usually harvested from September to April, and the Pacific Rock Oyster, which is available throughout the year. So even though tradition suggests that oysters are best enjoyed in months with an “R” (from September to April) due to the spawning season and optimal taste, you’re in luck in Whitstable! Thanks to the Pacific Rock Oysters, you can indulge in this seafood delicacy any time of the year.
Fun Fact: The “R” month tradition for oyster consumption stems from the belief that these cooler months offer oysters at their best in terms of quality and taste. But in Whitstable, oyster enthusiasts can celebrate as they’re available all year round!
Fun oyster festivities to add to your calendar
The town doesn’t just serve oysters, they celebrate them!
If you time your day out in Whistable right, you could be part of the famous Whitstable Oyster Festival. Originating from Norman times, the Whitstable Oyster Festival is a vibrant celebration filled with music, dance, and as expected, an abundance of oysters. You can try them raw, grilled or smoked – the choice is yours!
Plus, the festival offers unique experiences like oyster shucking competitions. So, if you think you and your partner have got the skills, why not give it a go? It’s all in good fun and you’ll be joining a lovely tradition.
Making the most of your day out in Whitstable
Even if you’re not in town for the festival, every day in Whitstable promises an oyster-filled adventure. On one of our recent trips to Whitstable, we made our way from the train station directly to the harbour market.
While the harbour has historically been the heart of the local fishing and seafood trade, it has transformed over time. Today, it blends Whitstable’s rich maritime past with contemporary offerings. Expect to discover stalls full of arts, crafts and local delicacies – a hub of activities, especially during the sunnier months.
It’s an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the slow pace of this cute town. As you stroll around, look out for panels to find out more about its captivating history.
A glimpse into the past: The harbour dates back to 1832, initially constructed to facilitate the “Canterbury and Whitstable Railway,” a primary route for transporting coal and other commodities. Throughout its history, the harbour has played an indispensable role in the oyster trade. However, with the railway’s closure in 1953 by British Railways, the harbour and, in turn, the town faced economic challenges.
Tip: If you’re hesitant about tasting oysters, give them a go with a splash of lemon. For us, it enhances the flavour beautifully!
Beachfront picnic: making your day out in Whitstable simply unforgettable
There’s something undeniably enchanting about a day out in Whitstable, especially when it includes a picnic by the beachfront 😊 While you won’t find soft sands (it’s a rocky shore – so those quirky yet comfy shoes come in handy!), envision the ultimate coastal adventure. Trust us, Whitstable’s shoreline doesn’t disappoint.
Packing the perfect picnic basket
But wait! Before you set off for your day out in Whitstable, let’s make sure you’re equipped with the ultimate beachfront picnic basket (when we refer to a “basket”, it can be either a bag or a rucksack . Choose whichever is more convenient and comfortable). You see, the secret lies in packing smart.
- Foods that travel well – Sandwiches with fresh fillings, crunchy vegetable sticks or even a cold pasta salad. And don’t forget Whitstable’s famous oysters!
- Hydrating in style – Hydration is key! Pack your reusable water bottle and top it up as you stroll the beachfront: numerous water fountains are available. You can also pack juices or even some bubbly (for a celebratory touch).
- Sweets and treats – What’s a picnic without a treat? Pack some cookies, a home made cake or a fruit salad.
- Dress comfortably – Opt for breezy clothes and comfy shoes – keep in mind it’s not a sandy beach 😉 and those cool beach hats, which also offer sun protection.
Choosing the perfect beachfront spot
Now that you have your picnic kit sorted, is time to choose the ideal beachfront. If you prefer somewhere with a bit of activity around, West beach is an ideal spot.
If you’re looking to escape the crowds, consider venturing beyond the main beach entrances. A leisurely stroll along the beachfront not only reveals charming fisherman’s huts but also guides you to the peaceful Tankerton beach, much quieter than the primary beach.
Perfect activities to end your picnic day
Of course, chilling and feasting are fun. But why not add a sprinkle of activity to your day out in Whitstable’s beachfront picnic?
- Swimming – The beaches in Whitstable are generally pebbly but that doesn’t stop locals and visitors from swimming.
- Sailing & watersports – The Whitstable Yacht Club offers opportunities for sailing, whether you’re an experienced sailor or a beginner. In addition, the town is a popular spot for wind and kite surfing.
- Fishing trips – join a local fishing trip. Whitstable’s waters are home to a variety of fish and it can be a serene way to spend an afternoon.
- Sea Kayaking – Paddle along the coast for a unique perspective of Whitstable and its surroundings. You might also try Stand Up Paddleboarding: one of our personal favorites 🙂
- Boat tours – Enjoy the beauty of Whitstable from the water. Some tours even delve into the history of the town and its maritime history.
Do not forget to capture the moment 🙂 Don’t forget to take a couple of selfies. After all, these are memories you’ll cherish.
Tip: Always remember to check local guidelines and regulations when planning any activity. Some activities might require booking in advance and it’s a good idea to stay updated on seasonal conditions and any potential area restrictions.
Sunset strolls: the perfect end to your day out in Whitstable
Sunsets are truly magical, aren’t they? In our hyper-connected world, it’s easy to forget the simple pleasures that surround us. A sunset, for instance, is nature’s daily masterpiece but how often do we truly appreciate it? If you’re planning a day out in Whitstable with your partner, let’s make it truly memorable by experiencing a sunset without the interruptions of screens.
There’s a uniqueness in watching the sky’s colours shift as the sun sets after a beautiful day.
Whitstable’s best sunset spots
Whitstable presents a handful of beautiful locations where you can fully immerse yourself in an uninterrupted sunset experience. Let’s embark on this journey together 😊
- Tankerton Slopes – A leisurely stroll in this area is a must. The elevated, grassy slopes provides a panoramic view of the sun gracefully descending into the sea,
- The West Beach – Here, the silhouettes of boats set against the warm amber canvas of the sky create the perfect ambiance for an idyllic sunset setting,
- Whitstable Harbour – While it bustles with activity during the day, the approach of evening transforms it into a quiet environment, ideal for savoring the beauty of the sunset,
- Seasalter Beach – Located about a 35 minute walk from the Harbour, this beach is a less known gem compared to the more popular ones. It offers a peaceful space for couples to rekindle their connection during a day out in Whitstable,
- Whitstable Beachfront – On one of our recent visits to Whitstable, we cherished the memory of having a pint and marveling at the stunning sunset from the Old Neptune pub. It’s definitely more crowded than Seasalter Beach, but the experience can be magical if you manage to secure the perfect seats. 😊
Our recommendation: Create cherished memories rather than just capturing them. Immerse yourself in the moment and relish the joy of being fully present. In these instances, there’s a special kind of enchantment in the air, free from the distractions of buzzing mobile notifications. Meaningful conversations come alive in those moments.
Concluding thoughts: a moment of gratitude
Sunsets have a way of making us reflect about our day, our life as a couple. So, next time you plan a day out in Whitstable, remember to keep some time aside for the sunset. Be grateful for the beauty around, the memories made and the promise of another beautiful day out in Whitstable.
Here’s to unforgettable days out and the joy of discovering new places. Until the next adventure! Cheers! 🥂
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