Folkestone, Coastal Kent & A Taste Of France

Itinerary

Folkestone, Coastal Kent & a Taste of France

Tour InfoEnjoy a coastal break with a twist! Including a bar offer plus entertainment at our Folkestone base, explore Kent's gems with ease, from Sandwich and Margate to an optional trip to historic Canterbury. Then it's a hop across the Channel for an overnight stay, French souvenir shopping if you wish plus time in famous Dunkirk and pretty Boulogne-sur-Mer, known for its unique cuisine. With all the details covered, this is the perfect blend of British coast with a taste of the Continent.

Folkestone, Coastal Kent & a Taste of France

Highlights

• 5 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone (JG2 rating) with dinner & breakfast
• Overnight stay at the Originals City Hotel Du Paarc, Gravelines (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast
• 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks (Folkestone Hotel only)
• Light entertainment most evenings (Folkestone Hotel only)
• Excursion to Coastal Kent (Sandwich & Margate)
• En-route visits to Dunkirk & Boulogne-sur-Mer (includes ferry crossings)

Optional excursion to Canterbury (£16pp)

Folkestone, Coastal Kent & a Taste of France

IncludedWe travel to the charming town of Sandwich, which lies on the pretty River Stour and was once one of the Cinque Ports. Stroll through the narrow winding streets, providing a unique taste of medieval England, or enjoy the walk along the Old Town walls, one of the most complete defensive circuits in England. Our next stop is Margate, home to unspoilt sandy bays, retro shops, a unique Shell Grotto and a thriving arts community thanks to the Turner Contemporary gallery.

Full day

Folkestone, Coastal Kent & a Taste of France

IncludedWe hop across the Channel to the French coastal town of Dunkirk for some time at leisure. The third largest port in France, Dunkirk has a rich maritime heritage, showcased in the Dunkirk Port Museum, and is also famous for the evacuation of Allied troops during the Second World War. The town has a long seafront and a fine sandy beach, nicknamed the ‘queen of the northern beaches’, perfect for a stroll.

Half day

Folkestone, Coastal Kent & a Taste of France

IncludedBefore our ferry back to Dover, we spend some time in the coastal city of Boulogne-sur-Mer, lying close to Calais in Northern France. Historic must-sees in the Old Town include the 12th-century belfry, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the medieval walls and the ancient castle. Other highlights are the Nausicaä Centre National de la Mer, Europe’s largest aquarium devoted to the marine world, and the pedestrianised town centre, where you can find plenty of lovely cafés and unique shops for some retail therapy. As an international port on the English Channel, the town’s local cuisine combines European and American influences and popular favourites include smoked herring and Welsh rarebit!

Folkestone, Coastal Kent & a Taste of France

IncludedEnjoy time at leisure in Folkestone, exploring the lovely beaches and and clifftop walks or visiting the galleries, studios and unique shops of the Creative Quarter. 

Folkestone, Coastal Kent & a Taste of France

Optional ExcursionOur optional excursion takes us to one of England's most historic cities, Canterbury, renowned for its magnificent cathedral and medieval streets. Enjoy free time to browse the independent shops, relax in the cafés or visit Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From ancient gateways to timber-framed buildings, the city is packed with reminders of its rich past and is a delight to explore. Back to top

Accommodation

Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone JG2

The Grand Burstin Hotel is located on the seafront, overlooking Folkestone’s picturesque harbour. All the rooms have en-suite facilities and there is also a leisure club with a heated pool, gym and sauna (small charge applies). All meals are buffet style.

Hotel Rating

Hotels with a JG2 rating are a mixture of larger hotels and privately owned properties. Décor and furnishings may be simple but are clean and well maintained. All bedrooms have en-suite facilities, TV and may have tea/coffee making facilities. Food may be buffet style in some of the larger hotels. Services may be limited but efficient.

Originals City Hotel Du Paarc, Gravelines JG3

Located near Dunkirk just outside of Gravelines, the only remaining fortified town still surrounded by water in France, the Originals City Hotel Du Paarc has everything we need for our French adventure. Facilities include a bar, restaurant, garden and comfortable guestrooms with air-conditioning, tea and coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Rating

Hotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.

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