Discover Deal
Location, location, location
Deal, it’s the gem of the south-east. We might be biased, but it’s one of the prettiest towns in Kent, with an unspoiled beach, award winning high street and plenty of history to discover, you have everything you could possibly need all in one place. From gentle cycles along Deal’s seafront, to long country walks in the Kent Downs, you have the best of both worlds, right on your doorstep. Easily accessible, you can get to Deal via a direct train from London St Pancras in just 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Places to Visit in Deal
The best thing about Deal is that there really is something to do for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend strolling the highstreet popping into Wills & Yates, and stopping at The Lane for afternoon tea, then you can. Equally, Deal is steeped in history which isn’t to be missed. Deal Castle was Built by the order of King Henry VIII as part of a chain of coastal defences, it’s one of the finest Tudor artillery castles in England.
Restaurants in Deal
Walks in Deal
Great Walks to enjoy in Kent and around Deal
Coastal:
- White Cliffs of Dover Difficulty – Medium 30 hours
This is a circular walk from Kingsdown and back offering wonderful views but the path is close to the edge and care should be taken with children and dogs. The start is from the far end of Kingsdown Beach near the cliffs. Follow the footpath signed to the White Cliffs and climb the steps up onto the white cliffs itself, the view is breath taking. Turn right passing the Walmer and Kingsdown Golf course, following the path to Dover Patrol War memorial. From the memorial turn left walking across the fields and then right back towards Kingsdown. On reaching Kingsdown turn right and follow the village street down the hill back to the start. If you are looking for a little refreshment after, we suggest you try the popular Zetland Arms pub in Kingsdown | Home on the beach.
- Saxon Shore Way Difficulty – Easy 2 hours
From Walmer band stand turn left onto the beach promenade and follow this through Deal. We suggest you take a detour onto Deal’s Pier which offers spectacular views of the town and area. Keep going towards Sandwich Bay passing the renowned Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club as you go. Once you reach Sandwich bay the beach turns sandy so its ideal for a picnic and a paddle and accepts dogs as well. You can walk as far as you wish as at low tide the bay goes all the way round to Cliffsend on the southern end of Ramsgate. When you’ve had enough turn round and come back to Walmer. There are lots of choices for refreshments in Deal on your return but a picnic on the way is our usual choice.
- Reculver to Margate Difficulty – Easy 2 hours
Park at Reculver and start by looking at the remains of St Mary’s Church, an iconic landmark battered by the wind and yet still standing. Turn right and follow the Wantsum Walk footpath (part of the Saxon Shore Way) along the beach. The shingle turns to sand at Minnis Bay so its ideal for a paddle and at that point you can either walk on the sand or turn inland heading for Great Brooksend Farm, taking a right after the farm towards Shuart, bearing right in the hamlet back towards the sea at Plumbpudding Island and left onto the footpath to Reculver.
Countryside:
- Goodnestone Difficulty – Medium 1 hour
Start in the village of Goodnestone leaving your car in the village. Take the footpath from the centee of the village heading towards Chillenden, at the top of the lane past the Fine Dining | Griffin’s Head | England (thegriffinshead.com) (great pub if you want a stop) go straight ahead bearing slightly left until you reach Rowling Court. Turn left before Rowling Court staying on the lane until you reach a T junction. Turn left again and where the road bears right, turn left on a footpath that takes you back to Goodnestone.
- Wickhambreaux Difficulty – Easy 25 hours
This is through the water meadows to the East of Canterbury. Park on the green and from there take the Saxon Shore Way footpath towards West Stourmouth. Follow the Little Stour River until you reach a bridge, take a left over the bridge and at the T junction turn left and then immediately right onto a footpath. This takes you into Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve. Bear left as you walk into the Reserve and follow this footpath through the edge of Stodmarsh village, stopping at The Red Lion on the way Home (theredlionfoodmenu.co.uk) . Before you reach the pub, bear slightly right staying on the footpath and this will return you to Wickhambreaux village.
Family Days out in Deal
If you’re looking to keep the kids entertained then make sure you visit Betteshanger Park, a day trip just a short drive away from Deal’s seafront. A trip to Roman Landing’s mini golf in Walmer is always a hit with the kids, and in the summer months, there’s a paddling pool, ideal to cool off in.
Breakfast spots in Deal
A weekend away isn’t complete without a dedicant breakfast. Head to Deal Pier Kitchen for a taste of the seaside and start your morning off with Queen Scallops on Toast. Or wander over to The Lane for a sweet breakfast of caramel, apple and Banana French Toast.
Perfectly positioned along the Kent coast is our sky blue sanctuary, The Boatman’s Reading Rooms. Located in Deal, right on the seafront, this holiday home offers the best of both worlds. Whether you’re looking for an autumnal trip with nature walks and cosy nooks, or a seaside retreat with fish and chips at sunset, this is your place.