Oysters, shellfish, bracing sea views, and golden shingle are what Whitstable has to offer, and people have been travelling here to enjoy these things since Roman times, when Whitstable’s oysters first became famous. These days the town has some upmarket seafood restaurants, as well as some brilliant take aways, and it’s become a bit of a foodie pilgrimage. And Whitstable is gentrified enough to have several art galleries, a choice of independent record shops, and some cool vintage haunts. So when it comes to the best places to stay in Whitstable there’s quite a range, from boutique B&Bs to old seaside charmers. The seafront is probably the part of Whitstable most people want to stay in. You’re right in amongst the prettiest buildings, close to the best restaurants, and of course it’s nice to be able to have the ocean’s swell lull you to sleep...

Whitstable is only five miles, or eight kilometres, from Canterbury, which makes it very easy to get to by public transport, and its views, sea air and seafood restaurants make it a popular seaside day trip. In fact the train line between Canterbury and Whitstable, which opened in May 1830, was the world’s first steam-hauled passenger and freight service. But it’s certainly worth staying overnight if you can, this part of the Kent coast has some incredible walking trails.

Whitstable is is unusual for Kent seaside towns because it doesn’t have a promenade, but many people argue that this is what gives it its peace and charm. Plus its pastel coloured shop fronts and beach huts certainly make up for it. It does have a castle, though, which is only open for events, but has beautiful public gardens. Whitstable’s seafront is lined with 19th century buildings, including a couple of original pubs, and it’s home to one of the few remaining oyster boats, The Favourite. And it’s got a windmill.

With its increasingly popular foodie and arty credentials this little seaside town is getting busier and busier. So if you want to ensure a bed in one of the best places to stay in Whitstable, get organised and plan well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Whitstable

For a room with a view

• The Hotel Continental is your classic seaside hotel, with a white facade, set right up against the pebbly beach. But what you might not be expecting, is that in addition to the recently revamped rooms within the hotel’s main building, the Hotel Continental also has a collection of 12 converted fisherman’s huts, which are perfect for families. The decor is simple: think wooden floors and large windows with sea views, and there’s a seafood restaurant, of course!
• The Marine Hotel is just along the front, still right on the beach, and is slightly larger, and a bit more elegant. The 30 rooms and suites have a traditional feel, with fireplaces, wrought iron beds, and huge sash windows, or terraces with balconies. There’s a restaurant with both a fine dining menu and pub food.

For an escape

• Just outside Whitstable, along the coast at Seasalter’s Beach, is the Driftwood Beach House, a chic, three room escape, complete with a large wooden terrace with a wooden hot tub. Romantic feeling, with a largely marine vibe to the decor, and one room inspired by Morocco, this is the perfect place to relax.
• If you’re looking for an escape close to the beach consider Crescent Turner, a 16 room hotel just outside Whitstable, with views across the town to the water. The decor is smart and contemporary, and each room is different, with a range of patterned wallpapers and pretty fabrics. There’s a great restaurant with a terrace offering views over Whitstable.

Prefer an Apartment or Holiday cottage?

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or holiday cottage we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

• Whitstable is about two hours from London by train — an hour and a half if you get a fast train! Alternatively you can come via Canterbury and then catch the train or bus. Or cycle along the ‘Crab and Winkle’ cycle track, which is the route of the original rail line between Canterbury and Whitstable. You can also catch the bus and train via Margate. If you’re travelling internationally then the London airports are probably the most convenient to travel via, with Gatwick the closest physically.
• If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
• Whitstable is most popular during the summer, but there’s no better time to visit than for the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival! Whitstable’s warmest, sunniest months are July and August, when you can expect daily maximum temperatures in the low to mid 20s.

Still not sure where to stay in Whitstable?

• You could expand your search to include the best places to stay in Canterbury nearby
• or the best places to stay in Kent.
• Alternatively, you contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.