Colorful narrow streets, a beautiful beach, pier, quirky architecture, and TWO wonderful castles – Deal has it all! Join me on a journey to the most magical seaside town.
“All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveller is unaware.”
Martin Buber
As you know, I love discovering the UK’s hidden gems. Today I would like to show you a very unique and special place and the prettiest seaside town in Kent.
Deal is a historic channel town, first mentioned as a village in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appears as Addelam.
You will not see me in one of the UK’s popular seaside locations like Brighton or Blackpool. They are massively overcrowded and full of tacky tourist attractions.
What’s The Big Deal?
How does Deal differ from other UK seaside destinations and what’s so special about it? Keep reading to find out!
Beautiful And Quiet Deal Beach
As Deal is a seaside town, let me first tell you about its pebble beach – it’s a dream!
Quiet, pristine, and dotted with wooden fishing boats, it’s also a great spot for swimming. Locals swim all year round!
Deal Pier
Deal is home to the last remaining complete pier in Kent with the newly refurbished Deal Pier Kitchen where you can enjoy a tasty meal whilst soaking up those spectacular coastal views.
On a clear day, you may be even able to see the coast of France!
Unique Architecture Of Deal
If you enjoy wandering peaceful Georgian streets full of higgledy-piggledy colorful houses, you will be swept off your feet when you visit Deal. Let me tell you, those streets are definitely Insta-worthy!
Despite being so picturesque, those cute streets are very quiet and you can enjoy the views and take your pictures completely uninterrupted.
The oldest pub in town is the King’s Head, a cozy 17th-century gem with walls full of maritime memorabilia.
Fantastic Food And Art
Whilst in Deal, you can dine in one of many award-winning restaurants and buy fresh, local produce from delis and markets.
With numerous galleries, Deal has a vibrant arts scene, and fans of antiques, crafts, and collectibles will also be spoilt for choice!
Two Castles
Absolute must-see places to visit are the two castles built by King Henry VIII, Deal Castle, and Walmer Castle.
Deal Castle
Deal Castle, famous for its rose floor plan, is one of the finest Tudor artillery castles in England.
You can explore the whole of the castle, from the storerooms to the first-floor captain’s residence.
Walmer Castle
Originally a Tudor fortress, Walmer Castle evolved into a stately home and became the residence of famous names such as Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.
The castle’s award-winning gardens make it a perfect day out with the kids.
Deal Is A Famous Filming Location
If all this wasn’t enough, Deal was also a filming location for some great TV series, such as “Liar”, “Vanity Fair”, “Baptiste” and “The Tunnel”.
I think Deal has it all! Despite ticking every possible box for a holiday location, it’s remained authentic, it’s not overcrowded and the locals are very friendly too!
It’s a great place for a day trip with kids, a weekend away, or a summer staycation.
I have been there several times already and I will be definitely going back to this magical seaside town.
And remember – it’s a secret, we don’t want it to become flooded with tourists. So shhh… 😉
Thanks for stopping by!
If you are interested in more UK travel destinations, check out the posts down below.
Explore More UK Travel Destinations
SECRET LONDON ATTRACTIONS: ST DUNSTAN IN THE EAST
DISCOVER NORTHUMBERLAND: WHAT TO DO ON HOLY ISLAND OF LINDISFARNE
UNUSUAL THINGS TO DO IN THE UK: WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT DUNGENESS
THE MOST HAUNTED HOTEL IN THE UK: GHOST STORIES FROM THE MERMAID INN
HARRY POTTER LOCATIONS: VISIT THE REAL-LIFE GODRIC’S HOLLOW
UK WEEKEND WITH A TWIST: TOP 5 QUIRKY ADVENTURE IDEAS
UK STAYCATION IDEAS: HOW TO HAVE THE BEST SUMMER OF YOUR LIFE IN THE UK
BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS
Magda
xoxo
Photos by @carolinefabulousshanks, @dinkiepie, and Magda Tados.
If you enjoyed this post, please pin it on Pinterest to help it reach more readers!
***PIN IT***