From boundary-pushing art to unspoilt beaches, there’s plenty to capture the imagination. But if you’re ready to go beyond the standard tourist script, here’s the lowdown on hidden gems and local favourites Time Out might not have mentioned.

The Big Attractions You Can’t Miss

• Folkestone Triennial: This year sees the return of the free art festival that transforms the town into an outdoor gallery. Expect monumental sculptures, avant-garde pieces, and conversation-starting installations dotted around the Creative Quarter, harbour, and beyond. It’s art without the ‘please don’t touch’ signs—soak it in, snap a photo, and let your curiosity roam.

• F51 Urban Sports Centre: Don’t let its sleek, modern façade fool you—inside this multi-storey skate park and climbing wall is an adrenaline lover’s dream. If you’ve never skateboarded in your life, the staff here are super friendly and will help you get rolling. Or, try scaling the climbing wall and enjoy the unique thrill of conquering each new hold.

• The Warren Wilderness: For a switch in tempo, stroll (or hike) through this wild, windswept coastline that feels miles from civilisation. Fossil hunting is a favourite pastime—keep your eyes on the ground for ancient treasures—and you might just spot a seal or two peeking out of the surf. Dog walkers and families adore it for its natural beauty and fresh sea air.

Insider Secrets They Won’t Tell You

• Explore the Backstreets of the Creative Quarter: While most visitors stick to the main drag of independent boutiques, cafés, and galleries on The Old High Street, don’t miss Tontine Street just off it. Slip down the side alley to discover hidden studios, local maker spaces, and street art murals you’d never spy from the main route. Pop into tiny pop-up shops for handcrafted jewellery or vintage finds—chances are you’ll meet the artist behind the pieces.

• Keep an Eye Out for Folkestone Artworks: Beyond the 2025 Triennial, Folkestone is home to a permanent collection of contemporary art dotted throughout town from the past Triennials. Look for quirky pieces like Antony Gormley’s iron figures perched in unexpected spots or Tracey Emin’s baby clothes lost in local places. This year-round, open-air gallery means you can turn any stroll into a treasure hunt for world-class art.

• Harbour Arm At Twilight: Daytime sees the Harbour Arm buzzing with street food, live music, and breezy sea views. But head there and go beach side just as the sun begins to dip and you’ll get a front-row seat for spectacular sunsets over the Channel. The Lighthouse Champagne Bar at the far end is the perfect spot to toast the evening with a glass of fizz while ships sail by.

• Discover the Secret Beaches at Low Tide: Sunny Sands might be the most famous local beach, but venture just a bit further during low tide to find pockets of secluded shoreline between Folkestone and neighbouring Sandgate. You’ll need to scramble over some rocks to get there—but the payoff is a quieter, more tucked-away experience. Great if you’re up for a dash of adventure.

• Local Eateries With A Twist: Rocksalt grabs headlines for its fine dining and harbour views, but smaller joints deserve a taste, too. Try Dr Legumes for plant-based dishes that even the most devoted carnivores rave about, or look out for street food pop-ups by the harbour. For an old-school treat, chomp down a freshly fried doughnut from the stalls on the Harbour Arm—best enjoyed while strolling along the water.

• The Lower Leas Coastal Park: Often overshadowed by The Warren, this coastal park is a brilliant family-friendly spot. Amble along landscaped pathways past gardens, playgrounds, and an open-air amphitheatre that hosts free performances in summer. It’s a lovely way to soak up the sunshine without straying far from the seaside.

• Folkestone Fringe & Other Pop-Up Events: Beyond the Triennial, Folkestone brims with creative happenings all year round. Folkestone Fringe hosts an array of smaller festivals—think street theatre and performance art. You’ll find the schedule posted around town or on social media, and it’s a wonderful way to stumble upon something delightfully unexpected.

Get Ready to Fall in Love

Time Out’s nod might mean Folkestone won’t be a best-kept secret much longer. But there’s still plenty of uncharted territory for you to explore, from the hidden alleyways of the Creative Quarter to the seal-dotted shores of The Warren. Whether you’re seeking a high-octane adventure at F51 or a slow, meandering stroll among coastal wildflowers, Folkestone has something for every pace of life.

And that’s the real magic: it’s a place that continues to surprise, no matter how many times you visit. So come see for yourself what makes Folkestone tick—and collect a few insider tales of your own to share. Just remember: part of the fun is letting someone else in on the secret, too. Because once you’ve had a taste of this creative seaside gem, you’ll understand exactly why everyone’s talking about it. Then you’ll be the one whispering, “Trust me—you’ve got to check it out,” to anyone within earshot.