Deal: The UK's Hidden Seaside Gem You Need To Explore

Deal has it all: colorful narrow streets, a beautiful beach, a pier, quirky architecture, and TWO wonderful castles! Join me on a journey to the most magical seaside town.

As you know, I love discovering the UK’s hidden gems. Today, I want to show you a 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!

Gorgeous 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 a great spot for swimming. Locals swim all year round!

It’s also the perfect place to walk along the seafront while enjoying the fresh sea air and stunning coastal views.

It’s interesting how spending time by the water can have such a calming effect on the mind.

Maybe it’s because water is essential for life or because we’re constantly bombarded with so much noise and stimulation that being by the sea gives us a chance to stop and breathe for a while.

When walking along the seafront in Deal, you will also come across many beautiful boats, colorful beach huts, and endless photo opportunities.

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 while soaking up those spectacular coastal views.

On a clear day, you may even be able to see the coast of France!

When you walk along the pier, taking in the view, notice the symmetry of it all.

The posts are descending into the water, evenly spaced, like sentinels guarding against some unseen threat. The way the waves are breaking against them, sending up a fine spray that caught the light and sparkled like diamonds.

And how, despite the ever-present sound of the waves crashing against the pier, there was a feeling of peace and tranquility.

Unique Architecture Of Deal

There’s something special about the architecture of Deal. From the moment you arrive in this small seaside town, you can’t help but notice the beautiful, colorful Georgian buildings that line the streets.

If you enjoy wandering cute, peaceful 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 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, Art And Shopping Scene

While in Deal, you can dine in one of many award-winning restaurants and buy fresh, local produce from delis and markets.

Regarding the best places to eat in Deal, such as cafes, restaurants, and pubs serving food, there are many fantastic options, but I can recommend 81 Beach Street, The Rose, and The Lane.

With numerous galleries and quaint little shops, Deal has a vibrant arts scene, and fans of antiques, crafts, and collectibles will be spoilt for choice!

There are also many shopping options, from independent boutiques to high-end stores.

Two Beautiful 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 England’s finest Tudor artillery castles.

Built by Henry VIII in 1539 to defend against invasions from France and Spain, it’s one of the best-preserved castles from that period in England.

You can explore the whole of the castle, from the storerooms to the first-floor captain’s residence. You can even go on a ghost walk around the castle if you feel brave!

Walmer Castle

The original castle was built in the 12th century by Henry II as a defensive structure to protect the coast from French invasion. The castle has been remodeled several times over the centuries, most notably by Henry VIII, who converted it into a royal residence.

In Tudor times, it was a favored residence of Queen Elizabeth I, who spent many pleasant summers there.

Walmer Castle later fell into disrepair but was restored in the 19th century and opened to the public as a tourist attraction. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, gardens, and rooms which are furnished in period style. The castle also houses an excellent collection of arms and armor.

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”.

How To Get To Deal From London By Train

Getting to Deal from Central London is super easy and takes approximately 1h 25m.

You will need to take a Southeastern train from London St Pancras International directly to Deal. If there is no direct train around the time you want to travel, you can take a train to Dover Priory instead and change there.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an action-packed day exploring historic sites and boutique shops, Deal is the perfect destination. With its gorgeous setting and diverse range of activities, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

I think Deal has it all! Despite ticking every possible box for a holiday location, it’s remained authentic, not overcrowded, and the locals are very friendly too!

If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up some sun, Deal is the perfect spot. It’s a great location for a day trip with kids, a weekend away, or a summer staycation.

I have been there several times already, and I will return to this magical seaside town as it’s where I have found my own piece of paradise.

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 below.