Whitstable to Herne Bay promenade
Seaside slopes, shingle beaches, and leisure piers
Distance: 8 km (5 miles) | Estimated Duration: 2 hours | Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Whitstable Station | Finishing Point: Herne Bay Station
📥 Download Free GPX Trail File (Garmin, Apple Watch, Strava, OS Maps)
Route Overview
This gentle linear walk tracks the North Kent coastline. Starting in the trendy town of Whitstable, you follow the flat promenade past colorful beach huts, cross the grassy slopes of Tankerton Slopes, and stroll along the shingle sea wall directly into Herne Bay.
Travel & Getting There from London Victoria
By Train: Take the direct Southeastern train departing London Victoria Station towards Ramsgate, alighting at Whitstable Station. (Station: Whitstable Station (Southeastern), duration: 1h 15m (Direct train from London Victoria)).
By Bus: Take direct National Express 022 coach from Victoria Coach Station directly to Whitstable town centre. (2h 20m - 2h 50m from London Victoria)
By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is Whitstable Harbour Car Park (CT5 1AB). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 30m - 1h 55m from London Victoria (61.2 miles via M2 East (J7) & A2990 Thanet Way). From London Victoria, drive east via A2/M2 to Junction 7 (Brenley Corner), merge onto A299, take Whitstable exit onto A2990 into harbour.
Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs
Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Whitstable to Herne Bay promenade trail:
- ☕ The Marine Hotel, Tankerton: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
- ☕ Beacon Hill Tea Rooms: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I travel to Whitstable to Herne Bay promenade from London?
Take the direct Southeastern train departing London Victoria Station towards Ramsgate, alighting at Whitstable Station. (Station: Whitstable Station (Southeastern), duration: 1h 15m (Direct train from London Victoria)).
Where is the closest car park for Whitstable to Herne Bay promenade?
Nearest car park is Whitstable Harbour Car Park (CT5 1AB). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 30m - 1h 55m from London Victoria (61.2 miles via M2 East (J7) & A2990 Thanet Way). From London Victoria, drive east via A2/M2 to Junction 7 (Brenley Corner), merge onto A299, take Whitstable exit onto A2990 into harbour.
How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?
Whitstable to Herne Bay promenade covers 8 km (5 miles) with an estimated duration of 2 hours, graded as Easy. Starts at Whitstable Station and finishes at Herne Bay Station.
More Recommended UK Walks
Hampstead Heath – The Hampstead Circular Hike • Richmond Park & Thames Path • Regent's Canal Towpath • Epping Forest Oak Trail