Whitstable, a bustling community dubbed the “Pearl of Kent,” has existed since before the time of the Domesday Book. Its location beside the water makes it perfect for watersports throughout the year, and the Oyster Festival, which is held in July, honours its fishing tradition. Around six new shows are presented annually at the popular local museum/art gallery, which also includes a fantastic coffee shop. A large May Day festival with contributions from regional musicians and artists is one of many events held at Whitstable Castle, which dates back to the 1790s. There is a tiny, independent brewery in the town, and if you need some shopping therapy, there are a variety of attractive little, independent stores as well as big-box retailers. Celebrity chef Richard Phillips owns The Pearsons Arm, a gastropub, which is located in Whitstable. The Sportsman, a gastropub in Seasalter, is also close by and well worth a visit. Seven miles from Herne Bay, where on a clear day you can see as far as Southend and the Isle of Sheppey, is the city of Canterbury, which is home to a beautiful cathedral built in the sixth century.
