Dog-friendly day out tips from EverMore pups and their adopters
Why is Folkestone (Kent coast) a great place to visit with dogs?
There are many fantastic beaches and coastal walks – including a clifftop promenade (the upper Leas) that’s mobility scooter-friendly; often the bandstand features live music during summer weekends. There’s also the dog-friendly Harbour Arm with its delicious and eclectic food stalls and restaurants in repurposed shipping containers or train cars; artisan goods for sale in the adjacent Goods Yard (including a dog deli); and loads of dog-friendly cafes, pubs and restaurants, too.
What places for walks or outdoor adventures would you recommend?
The upper Leas, clifftop promenade overlooking the Channel. On a clear day you can see across to France. Lots of benches along the way to take in the views, substantial grassy areas for sniffs and flat, wide pavement that’s mobility scooter-friendly.
The lower Leas coastal park, along the waterline. It has lovely gardens, cycling paths, picnic benches, the dog-friendly Mermaid Cafe and the South East’s largest free adventure playground. You can also stroll the boardwalk with iconic beach huts from here, and walk to the Harbour Arm along the redeveloped seafront.
When there aren’t summertime beach restrictions, we’d highly recommend the small sandy beach in town, Sunny Sands, for off-lead playtime, swims and doggie socialisation.
Any favourite dog-friendly cafes, pubs or restaurants?
The Harbour Arm (restored pier/ferry port) is a fantastic place for food and drink of all varieties (including a lighthouse-turned champagne bar!), and often shows sport or film on its giant outdoor screen; though it can be quite busy on weekends if your pup has trouble with crowds. You might also try the lovely Radnor Arms gastropub, The Pullman (in the creative quarter) or Harbour Inn (across from the marina). Market Square or Djangos, both in the Creative Quarter area, are great for breakfast or brunch/lunch, as is the casual Mermaids Cafe (Lower Leas coastal park area overlooking Mermaids beach).
What about dog-friendly accommodation?
The Burlington Hotel, built in the 1880s, is close to the Leas and a short walk to the town centre (4-star). The View Hotel (also a 4-star) is directly on the Leas and offers a view of the channel. For camping and caravans, try the Little Switzerland campsite or the Folkestone Club Site – both are near the beach with great views.
-Martin Greig, Dottie’s adopter