After a month of dazzling skies and alfresco everything, the forecast is hinting at a few showers this bank holiday weekend. But here’s the thing—Folkestone thrives in all weather. In fact, a bit of rain just gives us the perfect excuse to explore some of the town’s indoor treasures. From live music and culture to cosy cafés and independent shops, there’s no shortage of brilliant ways to spend a grey-sky day.
We’ve pulled together our insider picks to help you make the most of the weekend—whether you’re a culture chaser, a foodie, a family on the move, or a dedicated mooch-about-town kind of person.
For Culture Vultures
There’s plenty happening behind closed doors this weekend, starting at the Quarterhouse, where on Sunday you can catch the captivating Royal Ballet & Opera: Ballet to Broadway, an as live screening of creative genius that has been thrilling audiences across the world. We love these screenings, why hike all the way up to London when you enjoy the performances here in our own town?
Folkestone’s alternative art space, Beton Collective, is also worth exploring at any time, this eclectic place always has art on display as well as a full event calendar which in their words is ‘full of life, wonder, diversity, and ideas’ – perfect for a rainy day.
Film lovers will want to head straight to the Silver Screen Cinema, with its classic old-school feel and warm popcorn aroma – you can even enjoy a sneeky glass of something whilst catching a film. It’s the latest ‘Mission Impossible’ this weekend, along with some family films.
Looking for something live? There is certainly an interesting mix on offer. You’ve got ‘Walk Right Back’ the story of the Everly Brothers on Saturday and a ‘The Making of a Murderer 2’, the UK’s top true crime theatre tour on Sunday at the Leas Cliff Hall. Whilst at the Tower Theatre it’s tribute-tastic with a Fleetwood Mac act on Friday night and an Abba tribute on Saturday evening.
And of course, Music in May is in full swing with performances all over town, some indoors, some out, many of them free.
For Food & Drink Lovers
A grey day is the perfect excuse to settle in with good food, great drinks, and even better company. At the top of our list for rainy-day indulgence is The Board Room on the Harbour Arm; darts, shuffleboard and board games galore, divine sharing platters, and local beer and cider on tap. It’s our go-to for a Saturday afternoon. The stunning views over the channel to Dover are always amazing, whatever the weather. It’s also their first birthday this weekend so there is even something to celebrate!
You’ll also find games, pints, and personality at The Beer Shop, a proper craft beer hangout with regular events and a friendly buzz. It’s ‘Viva Espana’ there this weekend with Spanish Craft beers and tapas from local Pintxos legend Gianni Modena.
For wine lovers, John Dory Wine in Sandgate serves a huge selection of wines and delicious ever-changing and a little bit different snacks in a relaxed, almost ‘at home’ setting. Why not make a rainy afternoon of it with a Sandgate pub crawl, after the wine bar pop next door to Docker for a classic local brew craft pint, then across the road to The Ship Inn for that warm village-pub feel.
Feeling more refined? Head to The Lighthouse Champagne Bar or the Tasting Rooms, perched at the end of the Harbour Arm, for bubbles and panoramic sea views and lovely food, the storm clouds only make it more atmospheric.
For Families
Folkestone doesn’t just entertain grown-ups. For families looking to make the most of the weekend, there are plenty of indoor options.
You shouldn’t miss Folkestone Museum. Located in the historic Town Hall, this museum offers a journey through the town’s rich history, from ancient fossils to wartime artifacts. It’s a perfect spot to immerse yourself in local heritage, with interactive displays to delight adults and kids alike.
The Silver Screen Cinema is always a winner, with family-friendly matinees and pocket money favourites. It’s Lilo & Stitch this weekend, with a special Bluey at the Cinema showing for the fans of this Australian epic kids’ series.
Over at The Board Room, older kids can join in the gaming fun whether it’s shuffleboard or board games, plus there’s good food to keep everyone happy.
For more active families with kids 5+, F51 is the place to head to. With the world’s first multi-storey skatepark and a one-of-a-kind space that’s perfect for energetic kids and teens. With skateboarding, BMX, scooting and a huge climbing zone, it’s the ultimate place to burn off some rainy-day steam. Whether you’re booking a session or just popping in for a look, it’s a must-do.
Don’t forget to check out Music in May performances—many are daytime, informal, and family-friendly, perfect for little ears and big energy.
If you’re after a rainy-day reading nook, we highly recommend The Folkestone Bookshop, a cosy, community-led, independent bookshop with titles for all ages.
For Shoppers and Explorers
When the skies turn grey, The Old High Street comes into its own. Cobbled and colourful, it’s packed with independent shops where you can browse, linger and chat with the brilliant people who run them. You’ll find fashion, art, books, jewellery and just about everything in between.
Before you get to the Old High Street take a look at some of the stores in town itself; along the Sandgate Road and around Rendezvous and Guildhall Street. Soon we’ll have the Petticoat Lane Emporium, but meanwhile there are still some treasures to find; some you just might not have noticed or tried yet. We love the Folkestone Tea Rooms, did you know they have amazing, themed party rooms in the cellar? On Sunday they are hosting a Gothic Afternoon Tea – sounds intriguing and a wicked way to while away a Sunday afternoon.
Pop into Dandy Vintage; as well astruly original garments you can just enjoy the stunning interiors (for Interior Design Master fans, the fabulous Craig created this). For your own stylish homeware and statement gifts you can’t beat Moda.
There are some new outlets enroute to the Old High Street that are worth a look. Then drop by Richardson & Richardson for completely original jewellery and gifts, some of which can be custom made just for you. Have a laugh (and probably buy something) at the brilliantly bonkers Objectables.
When you’re ready for a break, Steep Street Coffee House is the perfect pit stop—a literary café with huge cakes, big tables, and the kind of playlist that makes you want to stay a while. It often gets jam packed full, but there are many other options.
Kipps Alehouse is our local and family favourite – Tanya’s nachos are the best (and all the food is veggie)! We also love the traditional tapas at El Cortador, they also do coffee and cake if it’s pre or post lunch.
Final Word from a Local
We say this all the time, but it’s worth repeating; Folkestone isn’t just a fair-weather town. In fact, some of its best bits only really shine when the clouds roll in. That’s when the candles come out, the music moves indoors, and the warmth of our community wraps around you like a favourite jumper.
So grab your brolly, bring your curiosity, and let the showers guide you somewhere new this weekend. Whether you’re in it for the tunes, the theatre, the toasties or the treasure-hunting, we’ll see you out there.
