by Janis / 10 comments - Orginally published:19th March 2019
A quaint seaside town yet to be discovered
Why Deal I hear you say? Well, I’m going to let you into a little secret, Deal is a true gem for so many reasons.
Pastel-coloured cottages, working fishing boats, quirky little shops and steeped in history back to the Romans.
Not only is Deal perfect for a day trip, but you could also turn it into a mini-break and discover more of the region. Take a peek at our 'Scenic coastal road trip around the shores of Kent', there's so much more to discover, along with its connections to the Cinque Ports.
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Where is Deal?
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Let's Discover Deal
Ahh the sea airIt had been years since we’d visited Deal, and you would have thought that as it’s in our home county of Kent, we would have headed there more frequently. But, as it’s so often the case, we travel further afield and are guilty of bypassing those things on our doorstep.
Beach Street
Well, this was being rectified, and as soon as Gary and I jumped out of the car, I felt the sea-breeze blow across my face, the sun was shining and I thought this is why I love the English seaside.
The Shoreline along Deal
Deal through time
The History BitAlong this little stretch of the English coastline is said to be where Julius Caesar first stepped foot on British turf. I’m leaving that open to discussion, however, what is known, about this three-mile area of shoreline, are the three defence castles that King Henry VIII had built during the 16th-century.
Entrance across the moat, Walmer Castle
Walmer Castle in the south is the plusher of the three and has some incredible gardens.
Deal Castle around 1 ½ mile north is a lot more functional than Walmer and then 1 ½ mile further north is (or was) Sandown Castle. The remains that are now visible have been turned into a lovely seated garden, maintained by the local residents.
Access to Warmer & Deal Castles are free to English Heritage Members
Sandown Castle Community Garden
Exploring Deal
The Coastal WalkAs I said, we arrived at Deal by car, and if you park slightly on the outskirts of town along the coastline, then there are no parking charges and you can enjoy the walk into town.
A working beach
We started at the southern end of Deal, by Walmer lifeboat station. The RNLI run a fantastic charity that has been saving lives around the British shores since 1824. More often than not, the stations are staffed throughout the day, and you can peek in and check to see if you can take a look around.
If you’d enjoy a deeper journey through the RNLI’s history, head to the Historic Dockyard Chatham (also in Kent).
Walmer Lifeboat Station, Deal
We have a new little book on our shelves that we delve into when we're heading to the coast.
Packed full of historical facts, and broken down into the different counties of England. It tells tales of the history of the shoreline that surrounds our country.
Available in Kindle & Hardback editions, it's an excellent addition to anyone's collection who loves the English seaside.
The Kent Coastline
When I say the beach!!!!Now I’d just like to say, don’t think that when you arrive at Deal, there are going to be endless golden sandy beaches, it pebbles all the way here. But that’s what add to its charm, this is a working beach as well as a place to have fun skimming stones across the waves.
Morning Haze on the beach
You can wander amongst fishing boats that have just been hauled ashore with the “catch of the day”. And I’d lay money on the fact you’ll be grabbing some fish and chips by the end of the day.
How to get there to Deal
You can catch a train from London St. Pancras International direct to Deal Station, which takes around 1 hour 25 minutes.
Or alternatively, you can do it all on a road trip, Rental Cars searches multiple well-known car hire brands and discovers the deals that suit you the best.
The Darkest Hour
RemembranceTake a moment to head to the bandstand, this was erected in memory of the Deal barracks bombing. On 22 September 1989, the IRA exploded a bomb at the Royal Marines School of Music. The building collapsed, killing 11 marines and wounding another 21. This was an extremely emotional time for Deal and the whole country alike.
The Deal Memorial Bandstand
Deal Castle
Halt who goes there?As you head towards Deal town, you’ll pass the historic castle. Which is quite low-key in castle terms; however, it was built as an artillery fort and had sixty-six firing positions, to fend off the oncoming seafaring enemy.
Deal Castle from the coastal path
Visit some of Kent’s coastal towns
Kent is not short of picturesque historic towns, particularly along the Kentish coastline., and we have a collection of posts you may enjoy - why not check one out?
Deal's link to London
Greenwich Mean TimeA little further along on your left you’ll notice the ‘Timeball Tower’.
The Timeball Tower
At precisely 1pm every day the time ball drops, this would have been a signal to the ships out at sea and enabling them to set their timepieces accurately.
This time ball received an electric signal directly from the Royal Observatory in Greenwich.
If you're intrigued by Kent's weird and wonderful history, or all unusual stories around the county, then take a peek at "Kent's Strangest Tales".
You won't be able to put it down, you can pick it up for your Kindle or in good old paperback.
Deal's touch of nostalgia
Strolling the pierPromenading past quaint B&B’s, seaside pubs and beautifully kept houses, we arrive at the pier. I must admit it’s not the most eye-catching pier; however, it is Deal’s 3rd iteration as the two previous have succumbed to gales and the Second World War.
Channel View Guest House
The Ship Inn
The present one which was opened in 1957, has since undergone extensive repairs. At the entrance is a half-moon seating area, where you can sit and watch the seaside world go by.
Entrance to the Pier
Just because the pier hasn’t got the lure of the “end-of-pier” arcades, it doesn’t detract from the pleasure you get strolling out above the waves and amongst the locals trying to catch their evening meal.
The view back across the bay is one to savour.
The view down the pier
Where have you been?
Have you visited any of England’s old seaside towns, drop a comment below to tell us where you enjoyed visiting?
The best of Deal
The Old TownAfter our promenade, we head a couple of streets back to discover what Deal’s traditional old town has to offer.
The Town Hall
Wandering through most High Streets today you’ll get the modern touch creeping in, and Deal is no exception; however, here it feels like Deal is also making an effort to keep with its old-style storefront facades.
More info
Why not check out the While Cliffs Country section of the Visit Kent site? It covers Deal, as well as Dover & Sandwich
High Street Shop
The No Name shop and Allsorts
Colourful boutiques, art galleries, antique shops mixed with bric-a-brac, traditional old fishmongers and butchers and of course plenty of cafes and tea shops.
The High Street
Escape for a few days
Are you looking for that ‘perfick’ holiday hideaway to relax in while you discover the Garden of England?
After a day exploring the Kent coast and its many historic castles enjoy one of the handpicked properties and unique retreats at Holiday Cottages.
Picture Postcard Deal
Historic lanesThe area of Deal old town that I loved exploring was amongst the tiny lanes and courtyards. Old fisherman’s cottages painted in pastel colours, you can tell that the locals here are proud of where they live.
Colourful Griffin Street
Farrier Street to the sea
Wandering along Middle Street is a must, there is so much architectural history and so many beautifully kept buildings of times gone by.
Though I think in the days of smuggling a few old yarns could have been told amongst these streets.
Historic Middle Street
Where to stay in Deal
- The Royal Hotel - Located on the seafront of Deal offers incredible views across the bay. The 18th-century charming hotel is a perfect base for exploring Deal and touring the Kent coast.
- The Waterfront Hotel - Overlooking Deal pier this historic family-run hotel offers a delicious breakfast ready to sustain you for a full day ahead.
Deal in Literature
Well readAlthough Deal has a strong nautical presence, it is also a town with plenty of literary history and has been associated with Samuel Pepys, Charles Dickens and Jane Austen.
Slightly more recently, it was the setting for Ian Fleming’s original 1955 James Bond novel “Moonraker”, don't get confused by the movie - the original is nearly all set in the region with Hugo Drax's fictitious mansion nearby.
A famous resident of Deal
What a “Carry On”Deal has been the home of a few familiar faces, anyone that remembers the “Carry On” films will most certainly recall Charles Hawtrey. He lived in Deal for the last 20 years of his life and was a colourful character regularly seen about town.
Charles Hawtrey’s former home
Where to eat & Drink in Deal
Spoilt for choiceWhat Deal certainly doesn’t lack are its choices in eateries.
How about fish 'n' chips?
I felt it catered for all pockets, you could sit in a stylish restaurant or café, or you could choose to grab yourself some freshly caught fish and eat it on the seafront.
The King's Head
Although, if the local ales were tempting you head to one of the many traditional old pubs.
Our video of Deal
A look through our eyesWe have created a little YouTube video of our visit to Deal. Why not take a look?
Also, why not subscribe to our YouTube channel and get the latest clips as we post them?
A love of Deal
I won’t leave it so long, next timeMy lasting memories of Deal will always be how it’s kept its old traditional charm but, not looking dated. Yes, it has the old familiar amusement arcades and kiss-me-quick gift shops, but it also has plenty of proud locals happy to share their piece of old seaside England.
Ohh and I can’t forget the squawking seagulls hovering above waiting to fleece you of your fish and chips.
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I’ve never visited this part of Kent, I’m hoping to explore all around Deal and the surrouding seaside towns next year so it’s great to read your post. I love the look of the traditional shop fronts and the pretty lanes. British seaside towns take some beating! #FarawayFiles
Yes they do take some beating, there are some lovely coastal towns around Kent, Hythe is really lovely too. I recommend visiting Walmer Castle.
What a lovely post about a delightful place. We didn’t linger nearly long enough in Deal when we visited one very blustery winter afternoon. Your gorgeous photos have really inspired me to go back. Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
Yes I really enjoyed visiting Deal, stills feel like a piece of old England. These seaside towns are great to visit slightly our of season on a bright day, you can’t beat it.
What a lovely and very quaint little town, and all those castles too! I’ve never been to the English Seaside, so I must remedy that. #farawayfiles
Oh you must Hilary, there’s so many to choose from, small to large, quiet to garish, they’re all around the UK.
What a perfect quaint little seaside town! Love your photos of both the sea and Old Town – looks utterly charming. And nice to know there are so many good food options! #farawayfiles
Thanks very much we really enjoyed visiting Deal, it is certainly becoming more popular in a good way I think. Quite a bit of restoration work is taking place on the older homes.
Lived in Walmer/Deal for a couple of years..
Lovely place Neat and tidy Miss the Ship Inn and lovely fish and chips Pier and restaurant was ideal place to view the beach in summer I’d recommend a visit to anyone who wants a quiet weekend
Yes, Deal is a lovely town, funnily enough, we were there again just last week and couldn’t resist having fish and chips while sitting along the seafront. It’s such a lovely coastline all along that stretch of Kent.