#Your Whitstable — Part 2!

Earlier in the year we wrote about some of our favourite things to do in Whitstable (you can still read this here )
But with so many options we thought it was about time for Part II !
We’ve no doubt you’ll soon find your very ‘own Whitstable’, with your favourite haunts, activities and traditions. But if you are new to the area, then some of these nearby suggestions might be of interest when planning your Whitstable holiday.
1. Go Wild …

There are lots of great places to see wildlife locally. A simple stroll along the beach will reveal lots of birdlife (especially on the mudflats towards Seasalter). In the other direction, Tankerton Slopes is registered as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due a rare plant, Hog’s Fennel (Peucudanum officinale) and two rare moths that this plant supports. The Kent Wildlife Trust manages the area to ensure its continued protection, and the views are stunning!
Head over the to the Isle of Sheppey (pictured above) and you’ll find the Swale National Nature Reserve which is one the quietest places we’ve ever visited & is featured in the book, Britains 500 Wildest Places. Park at The Ferry House Inn , work up an appetite with a walk through the stunning marsh grasslands, and enjoy a drink or food in the pub’s garden afterwards.
Another huge favourite of ours is the wonderful Wildwood Trust, a 15 minute or so drive from Whitstable in the direction of Herne Bay. The ancient woodland houses over 200 native animals, including (recently rescued) Bears, Wolves, Owls, Foxes, Wild Boar and Beavers to name but a few. There is a cafe for food & drinks and a fantastic adventure playground for kids, including a thrill seeking drop slide, tree-top forts and a zip wire!

There are other wildlife parks nearby, including Wingham and Howletts and if you prefer to walk through the countryside check out the many walks in the Kent Downs including foodie-themed routes in nearby Faversham, the spectacular cliffs at Dover.
2. Culture in Canterbury…

Just 20 minutes away is the historic town of Canterbury. It’s a lovely drive in itself, through the scenic Kent countryside and, once you’ve arrived, there are lots of things to do.
If you’d like to explore some history then there is no better place than the Canterbury Tales which recreates scenes from medieval England via Chaucer’s famous tales…(suitable for all ages but older children will probably get more out of the experience)
If you like theatre then a visit to the The Marlowe is a must. This regional theatre welcomes both touring & National productions to its stage, and the bars offer wonderful views over landmarks of the city.
One of our other favourite haunts is the Beaney Museum, which showcases both art & artefacts and holds regular talks and workshops for children.
For all things film related there is the newly opened Curzon Canterbury which has a great mix of art-house and mainstream cinema, plus special events, and also houses a lovely cafe/bar.
Lastly you can view the city and surrounding areas on the one of the Canterbury River Tours, or simply walk beside the River Stour, through the pretty gardens & past the many historic buildings that still stand today.
Eating out is easy in Canterbury also, our favourite include The Goods Shed, Deesons, The Ambrette and Cafe Des Amis.

3. Marvellous Margate…
6 or 7 years ago Margate may not have been described in quite these terms but we’re happy to see this seaside town back to its former premier status as one of the most popular UK destinations in the South. So much so it was named as one the best places to live in the UK by The Sunday Times !
A must visit is, of course, The Turner Contemporary but it’s worth exploring a bit further to discover smaller galleries too, such as Lombard Street Gallery and The Viking Gallery
One of the attractions that has been restored to its former glory, and has been hand in hand with the Turner in transforming the town, is the stunning new Dreamland Margate, which now has something for everyone including original fairground rides, a roller disco, and large outdoor music events including acts varying from Gorillaz, to The Libertines and Toots and the Maytals.
There are a raft of new shops, bars & restaurants springing up too. Some of our favourites include Haeckels (organic skincare & scents + they offer thalassotherapy!), Etcetera Vintage (homeware & flowers) & Mor (Homeware, stationary, jewelery). Plus do visit our sister business RUSKIN at the newly opened store on the High Street for Menswear, Womenswear & guitars. After exploring you can eat at at the incredible GB Pizza & drink at the new rooftop Ziggys bar.
Finally if you are visiting in August, you should check out the literary festival Margate Bookie — lots of great events encouraging a love of reading.

5. Enjoy the sunsets…
And after all that walking & visiting, we advise coming back to the ‘Bubble to watch the spectacular sunsets. Even on a cloudy day the weather can change at the last minute and offer a view like this!
We hope this has given you a starting point for your visit. And that you start to build your own traditions and discover ‘your Whitstable’ along the way. More tips of things to see & do next month! We’ll see you then…
You can also follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for a snap shot of local life, ideas for what’s on, and lots of lovely photos.
www.whitstablecottagecompany.com / 01227 262173.
