Folkestone Private 2 Hour Walking Tour with a Blue Badge Guide

Dover , England

Folkestone Private 2 Hour Walking Tour with a Blue Badge Guide

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Folkestone grew from a sleepy harbour town into a major passenger port & railway link to the continent during the early part of the 19th Century. High-society had already discovered the town's charms and local landowner Lord Radnor employed Decimus Burton (of Regent's Park & Tunbridge Wells fame) to develop the seafront & the grand Leas cliff-top promenade was born.
The 2 World Wars completely changed the fortunes of the town and during WW1 most of the seafront buildings were requisitioned & the local population evacuated.
Over 10 million troops & personnel left for the front lines in France via Folkestone between 1914 & 1918!
Today, The Leas retains its grandeur & beauty, but now has added poignant memorials to these momentous events which we will explore in depth.
More recently, the Old Town & Harbour have had a huge regeneration & are a great destination for shopping and eating.
Come and discover this gem on the East Kent coast with your local Blue Badge tourist guide.

Available options

Folkestone Private 2 Hour Walking Tour with a Blue Badge Guide

What's included

Specialist Local Blue Badge Tourist Guide in English or French

Detailed itinerary

Laid-out by Decimus Burton, The Leas Promenade was THE place to be seen during Victorian & Edwardian times. During the First World War, Folkestone transformed in to the main embarkation point for over 10 million troops and personnel heading to the front lines. Today The Leas pays homage to these dramatic times with poignant memorial.
Every 3 years Folkestone hosts a major art festival (the Folkestone Triennial) and the Leas is home to an ever growing number of art installations thanks to the huge success of this event.

Folkestone's old village centre with its historic church St Eanswythe's.

Leading down to the Harbour the Old High St and Creative Quarter have become a centre of artisan shops and great food.

Embarkation point for millions during WW1 and latterly car ferries to France, Folkestone's Harbour Arm has been transformed into and arts, entertainment and food venue.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

If you are arriving by train, we can meet you at Folkestone Central station upon your arrival.

About Dover

Dover is a historic coastal town in South East England, famous for its iconic white cliffs and strategic location as a gateway to Europe. It offers a rich blend of natural beauty, military history, and cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

Dover Castle

A medieval castle and major tourist attraction, known as the 'Key to England' due to its strategic position.

Historical 2-3 hours £28.50 (adult), £17.50 (child), £76.50 (family ticket)

White Cliffs of Dover

Iconic chalk cliffs offering stunning views of the English Channel and France on clear days.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (parking fees apply)

Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat

A museum showcasing Dover's rich history, including the ancient Bronze Age Boat.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Dover Western Heights

A historic site with military fortifications offering panoramic views of the town and cliffs.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (some areas may require tickets during events)

Roman Painted House

A well-preserved Roman house with intricate wall paintings, dating back to the 3rd century.

Historical 1 hour £10.50 (adult), £6.30 (child), £27.00 (family ticket)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish and Chips

Crispy battered fish with thick-cut chips, often served with mushy peas and tartar sauce.

Main Course Contains gluten and fish.

Dover Sole

A delicate flatfish, often grilled or fried, served with lemon and parsley butter.

Main Course Contains fish and may contain gluten.

Kentish Pork Pie

A savory pie made with seasoned pork and a flaky pastry crust.

Snack Contains pork and gluten.

Elderflower Cordial

A refreshing drink made from elderflowers, often mixed with sparkling water or used in cocktails.

Drink Vegan and gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking the White Cliffs Kayaking in the English Channel Exploring Dover Castle's Tunnels Sunbathing at Camber Sands Enjoying a coffee at the Marina Strolling through Dover's Historic Streets Visiting Dover Museum Exploring Canterbury Cathedral

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The town is bustling with tourists, and all attractions are open.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dover is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious with strangers offering services

Getting there

By air

London Gatwick Airport • 64 miles (103 km)
London Heathrow Airport • 75 miles (121 km)

By train

Dover Priory Station

By bus

Dover Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient for getting around Dover. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Dover Town Center Dover Marina Dover Western Heights

Day trips

Canterbury

18 miles (29 km) • Half day to full day

A historic city known for its stunning cathedral, medieval streets, and rich history.

Leeds Castle

25 miles (40 km) • Full day

A stunning castle set in beautiful grounds, offering a variety of activities and attractions.

Camber Sands

20 miles (32 km) • Half day to full day

A beautiful sandy beach with dunes, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Festivals

Dover Western Heights Festival • September Dover Music Festival • May Dover Christmas Festival • December

Pro tips

Visit the White Cliffs at sunrise or sunset for the best views and fewer crowds.
Book tickets for Dover Castle and the Roman Painted House in advance to avoid long queues.
Explore the town's hidden gems, such as the Secret Wartime Tunnels and the Drop Redoubt.
Try local specialties like Dover sole and Kentish pork pie at traditional pubs and restaurants.
Use the local bus system to get around town affordably and conveniently.