The secluded cove has everything you could want from a beach day out, from golden sands to striking sea views – and none of the crowds
With summer well and truly here, there’s no better time to start planning a trip to the beach.
The Kent coast is known for being home to many popular spots perfect for soaking up some sun and enjoying the sandy shores.
However, if you’re looking to escape the crowds this year, there’s one hidden gem in particular you need to check out. Nestled near Folkestone, The Warren is a stunning cove that remains surprisingly serene even during the peak summer months, despite its golden sands, chalk cliffs and breathtaking sea views.
Its tranquil atmosphere can be attributed to its remote location, situated about half an hour away from the nearest main road. If you choose to approach from the nearby Little Switzerland campsite, expect a scenic journey through winding paths, wild landscapes and grassy hills that takes around an hour before you reach the cove.
Once you lay eyes on this secluded beauty, however, it’s clear that the journey is well worth it. Interestingly, this spot was quite popular during the Edwardian era when it was much easier to access.
It originally boasted a train station, a cafe and gardens. Now, it’s instead enveloped in lush wilderness, home to 150 different species of birds and wildflowers, reports Kent Live.
The Folkestone Warren Halt train station, which opened in 1886, was closed within the same year after Lord Randor claimed it encroached on his land.
It took 22 years for the station to re-open, but it was once again forced to shut after a landslide in 1915. It opened once more in 1919, but another significant landslip in 1939 shuttered it to the public.
Staff continued to use the station until its final closure in 1971.
In the thick of nature, away from any roads and convenient parking spots, the mystery of why so few people visit here begins to become clear. But while The Warren may be challenging to get to, it’s undoubtedly worth a visit for thrill-seekers, and was dubbed by FolkLife as “one of the most beautiful places on Earth”.
The Warren is set within the Kent Downs and Heritage Coastline, which previously featured in the Lonely Planet Guide’s ranking of must-visit locations around the world.
Once you arrive, there’s plenty to do. Promenade strolls will appeal to casual trekkers, while children can enjoy the rock pools, and a spacious concrete area attracts fishers. When the tide is out, fossil hunting around the beach also becomes a possibility.
Head beyond the groynes towards Folkestone to discover another sandy retreat. Past visitors to the beach have been singing its praises, with one beach-goer enthusing: “To be able to search for fossils, play on clean sand, wonder at some of the historic and interesting man-made structures and scramble up chalky cliffs all in close proximity is a treat that The Warren offers up.
“It may be inaccessible in places and is relatively poorly signposted but it’s not overly sanitised or sterile. You come away feeling you’ve had an adventure.”
After you’ve enjoyed building sandcastles and taking a dip in the sea, why not explore Folkestone itself?
Recently named the best place to live in the south east, this seaside town boasts a burgeoning food scene, a quaint town centre, and lively cultural spots it’s clear to see why residents are proud to call it home.
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