July 2019, we visited two seaside towns Whitstable and Herne Bay, both located on the north coast of Kent, south-east England. With its many fruit growing and hop gardens Kent is known as the ‘The Garden of England’.
Whitstable famous for its Native Oysters dating back to Roman times around 80AD. The Whitstable Oyster Fishery company dates back to 1793 and share a remarkable story that continues still to this day. The annual Whitstable Oyster Festival usually takes place during the summer.
History of The Whitstable Oyster Fishery Company
Whitstable Castle and Gardens first known as Tankerton Towers was home to the Pearson Family back in 1790 and is now managed by the Whitstable Castle Trust. After a three million pound restoration, completed in 2010 became a popular local attraction. The trust went onto win notable awards, hosting community festival events and weddings. In 2019 they won the Green Flag Award again for well managed park and green space after winning awards in 2012, 2013 and 2014.
Whitstable Castle and Garden
Herne Bay is about a ten minute drive along the coast popular for water sports such as jet skiing and windsurfing and has annual festivals in August. Bayguide offers an interesting read on the history of Herne Bay, Punch and Judy, a wealthy Londoner interest with the Clock Tower and the fatal decision to build the Pier in wood!
A Short History of Herne Bay
“At the turn of the century the popular nickname for the town was ‘Baby Bay’ because so many nursemaids and children spent time here, enjoying the warm weather and healthy climate for which the town was famous.”
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