Folkestone, Administrative district in Kent, United Kingdom.
Folkestone is a coastal town in Kent that stretches along the Channel shore between Dover and Hastings. The Leas promenade runs above the coast through landscaped gardens and offers views across the Channel.
The fishing village developed into a port during the 19th century when the railway connected the town and defensive towers were built against a possible French invasion. The construction of the tunnel beneath the Channel in the late 20th century changed the role of the town again.
The creative district near the harbor attracts painters, photographers and craftspeople who set up workshops in former warehouses and converted shops. Visitors can look through open doors most days and watch the artists at work.
The harbor area and old town quarter are easy to reach on foot, while the seafront promenade is accessible by steps and a lift. Winter days suit museum visits and walks along the coast, summer weekends draw more visitors to the beach.
Excavations around the area have uncovered traces of settlements from the Middle Stone Age, including tools and pottery fragments. Remains of a Roman villa with mosaic floors stand near the modern center.
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