Herne Bay, Kent
Herne Bay in Kent Town Guide
About Herne Bay, Kent
Herne Bay is a charming seaside town on the north coast of Kent, located six miles north of Canterbury and four miles east of Whitstable. Its seafront is notable for the world’s first freestanding purpose-built Clock Tower, erected in 1837. The town once boasted the second-longest pier in the UK, stretching over 3,600 feet, though storm damage in 1978 left it partially destroyed.
Originally a small shipping community, Herne Bay grew into a popular Victorian seaside resort, with a promenade and pier attracting visitors. The town’s Victorian architecture remains a distinctive feature along the seafront, which includes a two-mile shingle beach awarded the European Blue Flag for cleanliness and safety. The seafront also offers Victorian gardens, a bandstand, amusement arcades, cafés, and water-sports facilities.
Herne Bay’s landscape is shaped by the Plenty Brook, which flows through the town into the Thames Estuary, creating two bays separated by a silt-formed headland. Nearby, Reculver Country Park features cliff-top Roman fort remains and a historic church with twin towers. The town also has a late 18th-century smock mill, Herne Mill, open to visitors seasonally.
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Self Catering Holiday
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Accommodation
Arthouse Canterbury
The Arthouse in Canterbury is a distinctive bed and breakfast housed in a Victorian building that once served as a fire station. This unique property retains its historical charm while offering modern comforts and a quirky, artistic design. The main … more
Hotel Continental
Hotel Continental is a family-run establishment located on the seafront, offering a unique blend of accommodation options including traditional hotel rooms and distinctive seaside lodgings such as the Whitstable Fisherman’s Huts. The hotel provides a variety of room types suitable … more
The Falstaff in Canterbury
The Falstaff in Canterbury is a historic hotel that dates back to the 15th century, offering a blend of medieval charm with modern, four-star accommodation. Conveniently located in the city centre, it is just a short walk from Canterbury’s bustling … more
Restaurants
The Grove Ferry Inn
The Grove Ferry Inn is a charming pub located on the banks of the River Stour, just outside Canterbury. This historic building offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both dining and accommodation. Patrons can … more
The Marine
The Marine Hotel in Whitstable offers a unique blend of coastal charm and luxurious accommodation. This boutique hotel features 30 beautifully presented bedrooms, with 20 offering sea views and several boasting private balconies. For those planning to travel with pets, … more
The Falstaff in Canterbury
The Falstaff in Canterbury is a historic hotel that dates back to the 15th century, offering a blend of medieval charm with modern, four-star accommodation. Conveniently located in the city centre, it is just a short walk from Canterbury’s bustling … more