7 best things to do in Deal, Kent

Deal is a quintessential English coastal town in Kent, between Ramsgate and Dover on England’s south-east coast.  Often overshadowed by nearby Whitstable and Margate, Deal has a charm all of its own and is a firm favourite with London day-trippers and holidaymakers seeking a relaxed seaside escape.

We visited Deal during a recent stay in the beautiful medieval town of Sandwich, just four miles away.  From historic castles to seafront strolls and character-packed streets, here’s our pick of the 7 best things to do and see in Deal, whether you’re visiting for the day or staying longer.

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One of the best ways to experience Deal is with a leisurely stroll along the seafront.  Whilst you won’t find sandy beaches here, Deal boasts a long stretch of shingle beach and a flat promenade that’s ideal for a scenic walk towards neighbouring Walmer.

Along the way, you’ll pass Walmer Lifeboat Station.  Built in 1856, the lifeboat station is still active today and serves as a good reminder of Deal’s long maritime history.

Continue walking for around 30 minutes and you’ll reach Walmer Castle, part of Henry VIII’s historic coastal defence system.

A standout landmark on the promenade, Deal Pier is one of the town’s most recognisable attractions.  Built in 1954, it’s the third pier to stand on this spot, following earlier structures dating back to 1838.

At first glance, the concrete design can feel stark, especially on a grey day.  But, spend a little time here and its distinctive, almost brutalist style starts to grow on you.  From beneath the pier, it takes on an unexpectedly striking appearance.

At the entrance you’ll find the bronze sculpture “Embracing the Sea”, which depicts a man in a boat pulling a fish from the sea.  You’ll also find an ice-cream kiosk and a small shop selling angling essentials.  The end of the pier is a favourite with anglers, while the rest is refreshingly free of arcades and fairground rides.  Instead, there are benches where you can sit back and enjoy uninterrupted sea views.  On a clear day, you might even be able to spot France!

Finish your walk with a bite to eat at Deal Pier Kitchen, which serves food throughout the day.

Deal’s pebble beach reflects its heritage as a former fishing town.   Wooden fishing boats still rest on the shingle, adding character to the shoreline.

The beach is popular with families and day-trippers from London.  Swimming is possible, although care should be taken as currents can be strong.  For younger children, there’s an open-air paddling pool along the promenade.

History-lovers shouldn’t miss the Deal Timeball Tower Museum, a unique maritime landmark close to the seafront.  Originally built as a semaphore tower to guide ships along the coast, it later housed a time ball installed in 1855.

Connected by telegraph wire to Greenwich, the ball would drop precisely at 1pm each day, allowing ships anchored offshore to set their chronometers accurately.  In its heyday, this was vital for accurate navigation.

Today, visitors can explore exhibitions on Deal’s seafaring past or climb to the top for panoramic views over the town and coastline.

Deal Castle is one of the top attractions in Deal and an absolute must-visit.  Built by order of King Henry VIII, it’s one of three artillery castles designed to protect the Kent coastline from invasion. Cannons still line the bastions, facing out across the English Channel.

Managed by the English Heritage, the castle’s distinctive rose-shaped design is similar to Camber Castle in Sussex, but Deal Castle is far better preserved.  Inside, you can explore multiple levels, including underground passageways and the former captain’s quarters.

Visiting with children?  There are family-friendly activities, including hands-on puzzles that make the history engaging for all ages.

Click here for current admission prices to Deal Castle.

One of the most enjoyable things to do in Deal is hiring a bike and cycling along the seafront.  You can rent bikes from Hut 55, a beach hut on Marina Road, near Deal Castle.

Head south along the promenade to reach Walmer Castle, the oldest of Deal’s three Henry VIII forts.  Surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, it’s well worth a visit.  The route is flat and scenic, and if cycling isn’t your thing, it’s just over a mile to walk.

Alternatively, cycle north to see the ruins of Sandown Castle, or continue on to the medieval town of Sandwich, around five miles away.

Deal town centre blends historic character, with a lively, modern feel.  Elegant Georgian houses sit alongside fishermen’s cottages, while narrow lanes and alleyways are home to vintage markets, galleries, and an old record store.  In contrast the pedestrian high street offers chain stores and practical outlets for grocery shopping.

There’s plenty of choice when it comes to eating in Deal. You’ll find cosy cafés, traditional pubs, trendy bistros, and delicatessens dotted throughout the town.

One of the prettiest buildings in Deal is the King’s Head, a historic pub dating back to 1645, perfectly positioned on the seafront.  It’s a favourite with photographers and Instagrammers alike and ideal for a drink outside or some traditional pub food.

Other popular places to eat in Deal are the Frog and Scott, a tapas bar on the High Street and Le Pinardier, a wine shop and bar.

Travelling from London to Deal is easy, with regular trains from London St Pancras taking about 1 hour 24 minutes.  Deal railway station is just a short walk from the town centre and seafront.

Deal is easily reached by car via the M25/M20 or the M2/A2 from London.  The journey takes about two hours from London, depending on traffic

If you’re breaking up the journey, medieval Canterbury or Leeds Castle both make excellent stops en route.

• Sandwich; a delightful, medieval town in Kent
• A family visit to Ramsgate Tunnels, Kent
• 7 fabulous coastal breaks in South East England
• 8 lovely reasons to visit Leeds Castle, Kent
• A visit to Hever Castle & Gardens, Kent

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