No filter needed.
Did you know Banksy lives in Folkestone?
I can’t blame Banksy. It’s around the corner from Harbour Arm.
To get to Folkestone Arm, you need to walk along a disused railway…
Warning. If you’re planning to visit Folkstone, a lot of shops and for spots are closed on Tuesday (which is when we went unfortunately!).
Luckily, Shesells Seashells (great name) was open and had French fries with truffle salt (which were divine).
And we had this view which made it even better. I see a crocodile in between two elephants. What do you see?
More colour and walking around Folkestone Harbour.
There are a lot of quirky independent shops on the Old High Street.
I can recommend the salted caramel hot chocolate at Folklore!
By law, every room should have this many disco balls.
Safe to say I love Folkestone!
Except for the giant seagulls!
The History of Folkestone Harbour
Folkestone, a coastal town on the southern coast of England, boasts a rich and diverse history that is intricately linked to its harbor. The story of Folkestone Harbour is a testament to the town’s evolution from a modest fishing village to a bustling maritime center and, more recently, a thriving modern destination. This 2,000-word guide will take you on a historical journey through the development and transformation of Folkestone Harbour.
Early Origins: A Fishing Village
The origins of Folkestone Harbour can be traced back to ancient times when it was nothing more than a small fishing village. The sheltered bay and proximity to the English Channel made it an ideal location for local fishermen to cast their nets and bring in fresh catches from the sea.
Medieval Maritime Influence: Cinque Port Charter
The medieval period witnessed the rise of Folkestone’s maritime importance. In the 13th century, the town received a charter as a Cinque Port, one of a group of coastal towns in the southeast of England granted special privileges by the English Crown. The Cinque Ports were created to provide naval services to the monarchy, and Folkestone played its part in protecting the kingdom through its coastal defenses and naval contributions.
The Advent of the Railways and Growth of the Harbor
The 19th century brought transformative changes to Folkestone Harbour. With the arrival of the railway, the town became better connected to London and other parts of England, spurring economic growth. The development of a harbor followed suit, enabling Folkestone to serve as a port for both passengers and cargo. This was a pivotal moment in the town’s history, as it signaled the beginning of its transition into a thriving maritime center.
Channel Tunnel: Connecting England to the Continent
One of the most significant developments in Folkestone’s history was the construction of the Channel Tunnel. Completed in 1994, the tunnel created a direct rail link between Folkestone and Calais, France, effectively connecting England to the European mainland. This monumental project revolutionized travel and trade between the two countries, making Folkestone a gateway to continental Europe.
A Place of Military Significance: World Wars and Military Operations
Folkestone Harbour played a pivotal role in both World War I and World War II. During these conflicts, it became a major embarkation point for British and Allied forces involved in various military operations. Notable among these was the Dunkirk evacuation, which occurred in 1940 during World War II.
World War I:
During World War I, Folkestone Harbour served as a key location for troop embarkation and supply transportation. Thousands of soldiers and tons of equipment passed through the port en route to the Western Front. The railway station and harbor facilities were expanded to meet the increasing demand for military transportation.
Dunkirk Evacuation (Operation Dynamo) – 1940:
One of the most famous episodes in the history of Folkestone Harbour is its role in the Dunkirk evacuation. Also known as Operation Dynamo, this rescue mission occurred in the early stages of World War II. As British and Allied forces faced the advancing German army on the beaches of Dunkirk, France, a massive evacuation was initiated.
Folkestone Harbour became the primary embarkation point for the operation. A vast flotilla of small boats, including fishing vessels and pleasure craft, made their way across the English Channel to rescue British and Allied troops from the Dunkirk beaches. The operation, which occurred between May 26 and June 4, 1940, saved over 330,000 soldiers and remains a symbol of extraordinary heroism and resilience.
To this day, the cliffs of Folkestone, known as the “White Cliffs of Dover,” bear witness to the countless small boats that sailed to the rescue during Operation Dynamo.
Post-War and Modern Transformation
After the conclusion of World War II, Folkestone Harbour gradually shifted from a bustling military port to a more diverse maritime hub. The town faced the challenges of adapting to a post-war world while maintaining its maritime heritage.
In the later part of the 20th century, the decline of the traditional ferry industry affected the harbor’s prominence. However, Folkestone Harbor did not languish in the face of these challenges. The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw concerted efforts to rejuvenate and revitalize the area.
Revitalization and Modern Features
In recent years, the old harbor has been transformed into a vibrant, contemporary destination. Notable developments and features include:
- Folkestone Harbour Arm: The Harbor Arm, a stone pier that extends into the sea, is now a hub of activity. It offers an array of eateries, bars, and seasonal entertainment, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The iconic lighthouse at the end of the arm provides stunning views of the English Channel.
- Creative Quarter: Folkestone has developed a thriving arts scene in an area known as the Creative Quarter. This part of the town is home to galleries, studios, and creative businesses, providing a vibrant space for artists and artisans to work and showcase their creations.
- Harbor Market: The Harbor Market is a lively, outdoor marketplace that features an array of food, crafts, and gifts. It offers a diverse selection of items, making it an excellent place to sample local delicacies and find unique souvenirs.
Folkestone Harbour stands as a testament to the town’s ability to adapt, evolve, and maintain its identity through centuries of change. It is a place where history and modernity coexist, a living reminder of the town’s past and its potential for the future. Today, Folkestone Harbour is not only a symbol of the town’s maritime history but also a vibrant and contemporary destination where locals and visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds.
You might be interested in
