Discover stunning coastal views, family-friendly attractions, great food and outdoor adventures for less this summer.
Looking for an affordable family day out in Kent this summer? Folkestone offers the perfect combination of seaside fun, open green spaces, family-friendly food and spectacular coastal views.
From exploring Folkestone Harbour Arm and enjoying lunch by the sea to spending the afternoon at The Leas play area and gardens, this itinerary is packed with activities that children will love while giving grown-ups plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the coastline.
With children travelling free on Stagecoach South East buses in Kent and East Sussex (excluding Brighton) throughout August and Great British Summer Savings offers available at participating venues, it's easy to enjoy a full day out without stretching the budget.
🚌Start Your Day Out by Bus
Recommended Services
Route 10 from Ashford
Route 16 from Canterbury
Route 102 and 103 from Lydd
Duration
Full day (approximately 10:00am-5:30pm)
Recommended Ticket
A Folkestone DayRider (£6.30) offers unlimited travel throughout the day, making it easy to travel between Folkestone Harbour, The Leas and other areas of the town without worrying about multiple fares. If you're travelling from outside of Folkestone and plan to travel around the town throughout the day, a South East DayRider (£9.90 for adults) will be your best value option.
Travelling into Folkestone by train? Adults can also take advantage of the £1 Head to the Harbour fare on selected services:
Service Information
Route 10 operates approximately every 60 minutes until around 6pm (Monday to Saturday).
Routes 102 and 103 operate approximately every 30 minutes, seven days a week, until around 10pm.
⚓10:00am - Arrive at Folkestone Harbour
Catch your chosen service and get off at Marine Parade.
Walking Directions
From Marine Parade, head towards Folkestone Harbour Arm
Walking Time
Approximately 6 minutes
Walk along the Harbour Arm and take in the panoramic views across the English Channel. Families can enjoy the Adventure Golf Course, free film screenings and independent retail and food outlets.
Suggested Time
10:15am-12:00pm
🍴12:00pm - Lunch at Folkestone Harbour
After a busy morning exploring the harbour, stop for lunch overlooking the water.
Harbour Fish Bar
Perfect for families looking for a quick and casual lunch close to the Harbour Arm. You can also take advantage of 15% off mini meals throughout August as part of Great British Summer Savings.
Suggested Time
12:00pm-1:00pm
🚶1:00pm - Head to The Leas
After lunch, make your way to The Leas for an afternoon of outdoor family fun.
Walking Directions
Leave the Harbour Arm and head uphill towards Trinity Gardens and The Leas.
Walking Time
Approximately 22 minutes from Folkestone Harbour Arm.
If little legs are beginning to tire, bus services are available between the harbour area and Trinity Gardens.
🛝1:30pm - Enjoy The Leas Play Area
The large play area at The Leas is one of Folkestone's best free family attractions. With climbing frames, slides and plenty of open space, children can burn off energy while adults relax and enjoy the sea views.
Suggested Time
1:30pm-3:00pm
🌼3:00pm - Explore The Leas Gardens
Spend the afternoon exploring the beautifully maintained gardens and one of the best viewpoints on the Kent coast.
Suggested Time
3:00pm-4:00pm
🍦4:00pm - Afternoon Treat with a View
Before heading home, enjoy a well-earned treat.
Garden Coffee
A great stop for coffee, cakes, sandwiches and lighter bites, offering 15% off everything for children throughout August.
Skuba Bar
Ideal for families looking for a sit-down meal or a relaxed drink overlooking the coast, offering 15% off children's meals Monday-Friday throughout August.
Suggested Time
4:00pm-5:00pm
🌊5:00pm - Soak Up the Coastal Views
Take one final stroll along The Leas before making your way to your bus stop for the journey home.
Suggested Time
5:00pm-5:30pm
🚌5:30pm - Journey Home
Head to the bus stop at Trinity Gardens for your return journey.
Suggested Timetable