The UK is home to hundreds of stunning seaside villages and towns. And there aren’t many better places to enjoy a relaxing weekend, especially when the weather is warm and the sun is shining.
One of those spots happens to be tucked between Folkestone and Hythe on the Kent coast. The charming village is called Sandgate and has been described as a peaceful coastal spot that has everything from quirky shops, beautiful beaches to multi-million-pound homes.
Despite its small size, Sandgate has a rich history, going back at least to the time of Henry VIII.
The village is home to Sandgate Castle, built by Henry VIII between 1539 and 1540 to defend the coast.
Over the years, it was redesigned during the Napoleonic Wars, damaged by coastal erosion and eventually converted into a private residence.
Today, the remains of the castle are protected as a Grade I listed building.
The village itself is packed with character. According to Visit South East England, Sandgate High Street is just metres from the seafront and has plenty of independent shops, inns and restaurants.
Visitors can enjoy classic fish and chips or browse the area’s antique and collectible stores.
The main attraction for many, though, is the beach.
Visit Kent describes Sandgate Beach as a “beautiful shingle beach ideal for relaxing and swimming”, with clean water and nearby cafes, pubs and shops.
The Beach Guide adds that it’s perfect for picnics, kayaking and watching boats pass by.
A wide promenade runs from Hythe to Folkestone and is popular with walkers, joggers and cyclists.
Visitors have also left glowing reviews. One wrote: “Such a lovely beach. It’s lovely for kayaking and swimming. There’s some lovely cafes and restaurants on the High Street which is seconds away from the beach.”
Another said: “Lovely shingle beach and above average UK weather all year round. Lovely place.”
Thanks to its location and views, property prices in Sandgate are high.
One Rightmove listing on Wellington Place shows a newly built five-bedroom detached home priced at £1.55million.
The home features a gym, office, large garden, and a roof terrace with sea views, plus underfloor heating and solar power.
Several other homes in the area are listed for well over £1million, many offering spacious gardens, modern interiors, and panoramic coastal views.