Folkestone Harbour Arm: History, Food, and Things to Do
Introduction
The Folkestone Harbour Arm has transformed from a working port into one of Kent’s most exciting cultural destinations. Once central to Folkestone’s fishing, ferry, and military history, today it’s a vibrant seafront hub known for its street food, live music, independent bars, and panoramic views of the English Channel. Whether you’re here for a stroll, a bite to eat, or a day out with family, the Harbour Arm is one of the top attractions in Folkestone.
The Origins of Folkestone Harbour
The story of Folkestone Harbour stretches back over 200 years. For centuries, fishermen landed their boats at East Wear Bay, but rough shingle and storms made it treacherous. In the early 19th century, Lord Radnor gained parliamentary approval to build a stone harbour, with civil engineer William Jessop and Thomas Telford helping to design protective piers.
The harbour grew under the South Eastern Railway Company from the 1840s, which connected Folkestone by rail and developed it into a popular resort and cross-Channel ferry port. By Edwardian times, Folkestone was one of England’s most fashionable coastal towns.
Folkestone Harbour During the First World War
Folkestone Harbour was a lifeline during WWI, as millions of troops and Red Cross workers passed through en route to France. Over 9.7 million soldiers and nearly 850,000 Red Cross staff travelled via Folkestone between 1914–1919. It was also the arrival point for around 120,000 European refugees.
The Harbour Arm itself hosted the Mole Café, a volunteer-run buffet that served soldiers and sailors tea, cakes, and comfort before departure. Visitors’ books signed by thousands of troops remain a moving record of this period.
The Harbour Arm Today
Since 2014, the Folkestone Harbour Arm has been reimagined as a seafront promenade, bringing new life to the historic site. Restoration work has preserved the harbour’s heritage while creating space for independent businesses, cultural events, and family attractions.
Visitors today can enjoy:
Magnificent sea views across the Channel to France
Street food and pop-up kitchens serving global flavours
Live music, cinema screenings, and seasonal events
Craft beers, cocktail bars, and cafés
Art installations and heritage trails
Food and Drink on Folkestone Harbour Arm
The Goods Yard
The Goods Yard is the Harbour Arm’s lively street food plaza. Expect an ever-changing mix of independent traders serving:
Fresh moules and seafood classics
Wood-fired pizza
Gourmet burgers
Greek street food
Local craft beers and speciality coffee
The space also features a giant outdoor screen showing live sport, film screenings, and family events throughout the year.
Beachside: Adventure Golf & Dining
On the shingle beach itself you’ll find Adventure Golf and the Hula’s Beach Café, alongside The Pilot Beach Bar (winner of Best Bar in Kent, 2022 Muddy Stiletto Awards) and Little Rock, the sister restaurant to Folkestone’s acclaimed Rocksalt.
The Board Room
For something different, visit The Board Room, Folkestone Harbour’s biggest indoor venue. Developed with Iron Pier Brewery, it’s home to:
A taproom with craft beer, local wines and spirits
Shuffleboard tables made from Canadian Maple
High-tech Flyby Darts for competitive socialising
Other Popular Outlets
The Harbour Coffee Co. – speciality coffee and cakes
Marleys – brunch and cocktails
The Harbour Screen Bar – perfect for drinks while watching live sport and films
Shops and Outlets
Along the Harbour Arm you’ll find pop-up boutiques, galleries, and local craft outlets, perfect for browsing between food stops. The blend of retail, dining, and heritage makes it more than just a promenade.
Events and Entertainment
The Harbour Arm has a year-round programme of live music, arts festivals, and film nights. During summer, outdoor cinema screenings are a highlight, while at Christmas the Harbour Arm transforms into a festive market with food, drink, and gift stalls.
Practical Information
Location: Harbour Approach Road, Folkestone, Kent CT20 1QQ
Parking: Available nearby, with additional spaces around the seafront
Opening Times: Vary by season and outlet; check the Folkestone Harbour Arm website for current details
Accessibility: The promenade is flat and accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs
Why Visit Folkestone Harbour Arm?
With its rich history, modern food culture, and sweeping views, Folkestone Harbour Arm is one of the most popular attractions in Kent. Whether you’re here for a seaside walk, a family day out, or to sample the region’s best independent food and drink, the Harbour Arm perfectly blends heritage with a fresh, modern spirit.
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