Trains to Whitstable

Whitstable is famous for its oysters but there is much more to discover and enjoy in this pretty Kent seaside town. Whitstable is known throughout the UK for its oysters, but this small town is also famous for its thriving arts community and is one of Kent's most picturesque towns with something to inspire and delight all tastes.

Getting here: highspeed trains from St Pancras International to Whitstable takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The station is less than 10 minutes to the beach.

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Whitstable Harbour

The Crab and Winkle Line was the reason for the harbour’s construction in 1831, allowing heavy goods could be transported from Newcastle to Canterbury. It was also the world’s first passenger railway service. Still a working harbour, the harbour fish market is popular amongst locals and visitors, whilst the open-air Harbour Market sells a diverse mix of locally made items to suit any budget.

Harbour Street

Pretty Harbour Street has a real energy and buzz about it, enjoy a stroll and browse the independent shops and boutiques, take time to grab a coffee in one of the many cafes and restaurants and soak up the atmosphere. Many of the buildings have hardly changed for over a hundred years so take your camera and snap some Insta-worthy pictures. Image courtesy of Visit Kent.

Whitstable beaches

This English seaside town has a beautiful coastline with a very traditional feel with candy coloured beach huts, weatherboard cottages and fishing boats. Yes, the beaches are pebbly, but the sea is calm and perfect for windsurfing or sailing. The cliff-top lawns of Tankerton Slopes roll towards the sea, with views of 'The Street' - a naturally formed spit of land that extends into the sea and can be walked on at low tide. Facing West means that Whitstable’s beaches are a wonderful place to catch the sunset.

The Royal Native Oyster Stores

This whitewashed former oyster store serves delicious produce straight from the sea including their world-famous oysters, situated right on the beach it offers stunning views. But be sure to book ahead as it can get very busy. Above the restaurant is a beautiful space open at weekends, selling luxury homewares & gifts with casual food, coffee and drinks, use their binoculars which are handily dotted around to look out to the sea and beyond.