Looking to get active on your next trip to Folkestone? There is plenty on offer in the town, on the coast and into the countryside. Whether you’re keen to take part in an indoor sport, or simply want to stretch your legs and muscles in the great outdoors, you’ll find something to keep you fit and full of life in Folkestone.
Head to the Three Hills Sports Park to practise all manner of activities.
This multi-sport indoor and outdoor centre has facilities for hockey, cricket, football, athletics, basketball, netball, table tennis, gymnastics, pickleball or karate. So you can still practice your favourite spots while on your mini-break.
The bars and spectator areas are also very comfortable, so if you just want to soak up the sun and watch Folkestone CC with a beverage, you will be welcomed with open arms.
For the thrill-seekers, F51 brings high-octane sports right to the heart of the town.
As the first ever multi-storey skatepark, F51 is already receiving worldwide recognition for its incredible design and skating facilities. With three dedicated skatepark floors, the site also boasts excellent boxing facilities and the tallest climbing wall in the south-east. Local children can access the facilities for just £1 a month by joining The Shred Club membership.
Ever fancied testing your skills on a ski slope?
No need to travel to far-flung locations - you can hone your skills at the newly-refurbished dry ski slope at Folkestone Snowsport Centre. A fantastic venue for both experienced and first-time skiers and snowboarders, offering you an incredible day out with experienced instructors.
If you came to the coast to live life on the waves, you might want to try your hand at some sea sports. Seapoint Canoe & Kayak Centre and Folkestone Sea Sports offer tuition in canoeing, SUP, kayaking and bell boating.
And of course, sea swimming is a simple, free activity that can be enjoyed at many spots along the coast – people often set off from the beachfront in Hythe or from the beautiful Sunny Sands beach in Folkestone at all times of the year (if you’re brave enough!)
A few miles down the coast, why not give kite-surfing a try? The Kite surfing centre operates on Camber and Greatstone beaches. The vast, flat beach and waist-deep water for hundreds of metres means it’s fantastic for beginners as well as more seasoned surfers. The centre also offers lessons and hires out equipment in almost every wind direction, so the short trip there will not be wasted.
Adrenaline junkies can get a fix at Lydd Kart Circuit.
Established in 1993, this is the fastest outdoor Go Karting circuit in Kent and boasts the latest trackside technology and a state-of-the-art club house. Suitable for serious karters with their own vehicle, or casual enthusiasts of any age who want to hire some karts and give it a go.
For golfers of all abilities, there’s a home for you in Folkestone.
The championship links course at Littlestone Golf Club’s on the coast at Romney Marsh will challenge the serious golfers, while the adjacent Littlestone Warren offers a slightly shorter course for more casual players. Etchinghill Golf Club is based in the picturesque Elham Valley countryside and offers three courses and a driving range. And let’s not forget Foot Golf for those of you who love the fun, relaxed mix of football and golf.
With plenty of outdoor space, Folkestone is ideal for cycling.
The most popular route is from Hythe through Folkestone and along the Heritage Coast, which you can do at a challenging or leisurely pace. There are plenty of beautiful cafes or bars along the way when you need a pitstop.
The North Downs Way and the Pilgrims Trail are both huge routes that converge in Folkestone for a more challenging ride. Look at Cycling Weekly to discover the trails throughout Kent and the Heritage Coast.
If you haven’t got a bike, Click2Cycle bike hire connects Folkestone, Sandgate and Hythe. It’s pay as you go, with six bike hire stations / drop off points along the coastline.
