Top 5 Things to do in Deal this Summer
Deal is a coastal town in Kent, England, located where the North Sea meets the English Channel, approximately 8 miles northeast of Dover. Historically significant, Deal evolved from a small fishing village into a major port by the late 13th century and was recognized as a ‘limb port’ of the Cinque Ports in 1278.
Deal is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and vibrant seafront. The town’s architecture reflects its historical significance, with many buildings dating back centuries, including the quaint cottages and the old town center, which features a conservation area established in 1968
Today the town of Deal is a popular seaside destination with a mix of traditional charm and rich history. So if you are heading to the beach in Deal explore the town and take in soe of the sites.
Here are our 5 top things to do in Deal.
Explore Deal Castle
Built by Henry VIII, Deal Castle is an impressive Tudor fortress that provides insight into the region’s history. The castle features audio tours and beautiful gardens, making it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts.
Deal Castle built by Henry VIII overlooks Deal beach and is a great place to spend a few hours. Wander around at you leisure or make use of headphone and take your own guided tour.
It is located near the beach, allowing for a scenic walk to and from the seaside
Stroll along the Pier
Deal Pier, constructed in the late 1950’s, is a key attraction along the seafront. It offers picturesque views of the coastline and is a great spot for fishing. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pier, which is a perfect way to experience Deal’s maritime history
Take a walk down the pier and take in the views of nearby Deal and Walmer and on a clear day the French coast. The pier is a popular place for anglers, and there is a cafe/restaurant for refreshments.
Have an old fashioned Knickerbocker Glory.
Do you have a sweet tooth? Then you are in luck.
After exploring the historic town, stop in the the Deal Beach Ice Cream parlour (57 Beach Street, Deal CT14 6HY) on the seafront.
This is a real traditional ice cream parlour that hasn’t changed for decades.
The menu boasts a variety of ice cream treats, including traditional options like banana splits and sundaes topped with whipped cream and wafer straws.
Have lunch at the Boathouse Bar
The Boathouse Bar, located at the Royal Hotel on the seafront in Deal, Kent, offers a charming and scenic dining experience.
The bar serves a range of casual dining options, making it suitable for families and groups looking for a relaxed meal by the sea.
Visit the Deal Maritime and Local History Museum
The Deal Maritime and Local History Museum provides a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the rich heritage of this coastal town
It offers visitors a comprehensive look into the maritime and local history of Deal and the surrounding areas, including Walmer.
Exhibits and Collections
The museum is housed in historic buildings and features a variety of exhibits:
Maritime History: The ground floor gallery focuses on Deal’s maritime heritage, showcasing artifacts related to smuggling, local lifeboats, and the treacherous Goodwin Sands. It includes models of boats, figureheads, and paintings by local artists.
Local History: The first floor delves into the social and industrial history of the area, covering topics such as mining, hospitality, and local commerce. Interactive quizzes and displays, including a unique collection of Hooden Horses and a stuffed rat playing a whistle, engage visitors of all ages.
Royal Marines Display: A dedicated section highlights the deep connection between the Royal Marines and Deal, featuring uniforms, personal memorabilia, and recorded reminiscences.
The museum is open Friday to Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM until mid-October, and it is closed from November to March, except for pre-arranged group visits.
Admission is free, although donations are encouraged to support the museum’s operations.
Museum location – 22 St George’s Road, Deal, Kent, CT14 6BA
Getting to Deal
Daytrippers from London can get to the town of Deal by car in just under 2 hours.
The most common routes to Deal are via the A2 or M2 motorways. From London, you can take the A2, which leads directly to the area. Follow signs for Deal as you approach the town. The roads are well-marked, making navigation easy.
Southeastern trains operate direct services from London St. Pancras International to Deal Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, making it a quick and efficient option for travelers coming from London. Trains run regularly throughout the day, providing flexibility in travel times
If you want to explore the coast use our guide to find a beach near you. Just choose the county and click on ‘start here’ and follow the coast, by following the next beach along.
