Join me on a journey to the magical seaside town of Deal with its colourful narrow streets, beautiful beach, pier, quirky architecture and TWO castles!
“All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveller is unaware.” Martin Buber
As you know, I love discovering 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.
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.
How does Deal differ from that and what’s so special about it? Keep reading to find out!
BEAUTIFUL AND QUIET 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!
QUIRKY ARCHITECTURE
I just love wandering the peaceful Georgian streets full of higgledy-piggledy colourful houses. Let me tell you, those streets are definitely Insta-worthy!
Despite being so picturesque, the cute streets of Deal are very quiet and you can enjoy the views uninterrupted.
The oldest pub in town is the King’s Head, a cosy 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 collectables 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 and became the residnec 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.
FMAOUS 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!
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 Deal to become flooded with tourists. So shhh… 😉
Magda
xoxo
Photos by Caroline Shanks @carolinefabulousshanks and Magda Tados.
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