Folkestone is a seaside town with more to offer than just its cliffs and beaches. Its fascinating past ranging from Victorian elegance to wartime heroics makes it a perfect spot for engaging tours. The town’s regenerated Old High Street and Harbour Arm buzz with energy, reflecting its transformation from a high-society resort to a vibrant cultural hub. We especially appreciate how some tours bring history alive through personal stories and authentic sites, like the White Cliffs of Dover & Battle of Britain experience, which immerses you in WWII history. Whether you’re after a quick stroll or a full-day adventure, Folkestone delivers.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best tours in Folkestone. Each offers a unique perspective on the town’s past and present, from private walks that reveal its Victorian glamour to intense battlefield insights. Read on to find the perfect tour for your interests and schedule.
1. Folkestone: Private 2hr Walking Tour with a Blue Badge Guide
This private 2-hour walking tour offers a deep dive into Folkestone’s seaside resort glamour and wartime history. Led by a Blue Badge Guide, the tour is tailored to your group’s interests, making it ideal for families or small groups wanting a personalized experience. You’ll explore the regenerated Old High Street and Harbour Arm, uncovering stories of Victorian high society and the town’s transformation over the years. The guide also points out art installations from Folkestone Triennial, adding a contemporary touch to this historic walk.
What makes this tour stand out is the attention to detail and flexibility. It’s perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace and a knowledgeable guide who can answer your questions about Folkestone’s role in both World Wars. At just $235.72 for up to 16 people, it offers excellent value for a private experience. Reviews consistently praise the guide’s passion and wealth of local knowledge.
Bottom Line: If you want an intimate, customizable introduction to Folkestone’s past and present, this private walk is hard to beat. It’s especially good for history lovers who also want to see the town’s modern art scene.
2. The White Cliffs of Dover & Battle of Britain experience
This full-day tour provides a compelling look at WWII history with a focus on the Battle of Britain and the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. The tour begins with a 45-minute guided walk of the cliffs, offering breathtaking views and insights into their strategic importance during wartime. It then moves on to explore Battle of Britain sites like Hawkinge, where authentic locations from 1940 are visited—places most tours overlook.
The highlight is the visit to Hawkinge, where a guide with Battle of Britain expertise—and a background as a Cambridge PhD—shares stories and details often missed elsewhere. You’ll also stop at a local pub for a break, adding a personal touch to the day. The tour is highly praised for its interactivity and detailed local knowledge, with reviews emphasizing the guide’s storytelling and access to rarely seen sites.
This tour offers an excellent way to understand Britain’s wartime experiences in a focused, engaging manner. It’s suitable for history enthusiasts willing to spend a full day exploring. The multiple pickup points in Dover, Canterbury, and Whitstable add flexibility.
Bottom Line: For those eager to walk through history, especially WWII Battle locations, this tour delivers a memorable, well-rounded experience. Expect a detailed, immersive day that covers both scenic and historic highlights.
3. Comparing the Tours
Both options provide a rich look at Folkestone’s past, but they cater to different interests and time constraints. The private walk emphasizes local stories, art, and Victorian glamour, perfect for a quick, personalized visit. Meanwhile, the WWII experience dives deep into Britain’s wartime history with immersive site visits across multiple locations. Decide based on whether you want a relaxed, tailored stroll or a full-day battlefield exploration.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your priorities. If you’re after a personalized experience that blends history with modern art, the Private 2-hour Walking Tour is ideal. For a full-day, historical immersion into WWII sites, the Battle of Britain experience offers depth and storytelling.
Consider your budget—the private tour is a flat fee for up to 16 people, making it good value for groups, while the full-day experience might be better if you’re a history enthusiast willing to spend more time exploring. Think about your interest level; WWII history buffs will love the comprehensive battlefield visits, while casual visitors might prefer the shorter, more relaxed walk.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak holiday times, as these tours tend to fill up. Check availability ahead of time, especially for the full-day experience, since it involves multiple locations and guides.
Final Thoughts
Folkestone offers a variety of ways to connect with its past—whether through a private, tailored walk or an immersive WWII battlefield tour. The private walking tour shines for those seeking a flexible, personal introduction, while the Battle of Britain experience appeals to history lovers craving a full-day, in-depth look.
For different travelers—families interested in local stories, history buffs eager for battlefield sites, or art enthusiasts wanting to see modern installations—Folkestone delivers. Booking early and choosing the right tour for your interests ensures a memorable visit to this dynamic coastal town.
