Herne Bay is a quintessential British seaside town in Kent, close to Canterbury and Whitstable making it easy to combine all three in a day if time is limited.
If you’re looking for a traditional, old-fashioned seaside experience, this is a lovely place to visit.
The Arcade Experience
When I planned our visit to Herne Bay, I had a list of things to see and do… but that plan quickly went out the window!
Almost as soon as we arrived, we were drawn as if by an invisible magnet straight into the amusement arcades.
There are several arcades lined up next to each other, filled with flashing lights, slot machines, and rows of 2p and 10p pushers stacked with prizes you’re unlikely to win… or even want. But that didn’t stop us!
We exchanged our money for handfuls of coins, picked up the little plastic containers, and got stuck in. For a moment, we were like children again completely absorbed and thoroughly entertained.
Needless to say, we won a little, lost a little, but mostly lost about three pounds each which, in 2p coins, feels like quite a lot!
A Touch of Nostalgia
There was something unexpectedly joyful about it all.
The sound of the machines, the excitement of “almost winning,” and the simple fun brought back childhood memories of seaside holidays. Sometimes, it’s not about winning, just about enjoying the moment.
Seaside & Simple Fun
Beyond the arcades, Herne Bay offers all the elements of a classic seaside day out.
There’s a small pebble and sand beach, perfect for families, and activities like mini golf to keep everyone entertained. It’s simple, unpretentious, and easy to enjoy.
A Glimpse of History
The Grade II listed clock tower on the seafront is one of Herne Bay’s standout landmarks.
Built in 1837, it’s one of the earliest purpose-built free-standing clock towers in the UK, a lovely reminder of the town’s history.
Nearby, the Victorian bandstand and seafront gardens were quiet during my visit, as the country was just emerging from the pandemic. I could easily imagine how lively and full of music they would be in more normal times.
The Pier
Herne Bay’s pier was once the second longest in the UK.
Part of it collapsed during a storm in 1978, and while it has since been made safe and restored, it’s no longer as long as it once was. When I visited, it was still very quiet — a reflection of the time.
A Forgotten Photo
I was fascinated by a bronze sculpture of Amy Johnson, the pioneering English aviator, gazing up towards the sky.
Sadly, I didn’t take a photo, one of those moments you wish you could go back and capture.
Fish & Chips to Finish
You simply can’t visit an English seaside town without fish and chips.
We ended our day exactly as you should with freshly cooked fish and chips, followed by a well-earned drink.
Final Thoughts
Herne Bay may not be the most polished seaside town, but that’s part of its charm.
It’s nostalgic, unpretentious, and full of simple pleasures. The kind of place that brings back memories and reminds you how little you need to enjoy a day by the sea.
