While Deal’s more fashionable siblings like Margate and Whistable draw in the hipster crowd, the quiet town is perfect for a relaxing day trip in Kent (especially in these Covid-19 times).
Okay, there may not be a whole lot to see and do compared to the other seaside towns in Kent. But that’s the beauty of Deal, you can spend a whole day outdoors at this hidden gem.
The train station is centrally located and takes less than 10 minutes to walk to the seafront. From there, you can either walk left, which takes you towards Sandwich Bay, or right which takes you towards Kingsdown Beach (this is the route I took).
Deal might be one of my favourite places to photograph in Kent. My photo of The Kings Arms was reposted on Instagram by Visit Britain.
Have you seen a prettier pub?
I loved walking along the seafront and the streets, photographing the old buildings in Deal. It seems like time has stood still (which isn’t a bad thing by any means).
If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know I’m a sucker for bright and pastel coloured houses like those in Gamla Stan, Stockholm.
Then, there’s the pier which seems to never end (when you do find the end there’s Deal Pier Kitchen which offers unrivalled views of the sea while you enjoy delicious food). Or you could obviously dine alfresco on the beach with a classic fish and chips (my personal choice between the two).
Afterwards, continue your seaside stroll and admire the many boats and beach huts (it is my life’s goals to own a cute beach hut).
If you’re looking for a little bit history, there’s Deal Castle and Walmer Castle and gardens – both are English Heritage properties and picturesque of course.
After all that walking, you’ll be glad to that the beaches are deserted in Deal, so you can lie back and relax.
Deal is around 1 hour 30 mins from London on the train and only an hour from Canterbury (36 minutes by car) if you want to escape city life for a day. Several car parks in Deal are free on Sunday too!
In collaboration with Hotels.com, but all views and photos are my own.