Old High Street, Folkestone

Old High Street is the principal shopping and cultural thoroughfare in Folkestone's historic town centre, characterised by well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian shop fronts and buildings that line the street. The street forms the backbone of Folkestone's commercial and social life, featuring a mix of independent retailers, family-run shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries that give the street a distinctly personal character.

Visitors can explore period architecture and shopfronts that speak to the town's prosperous 19th-century development, browse independent businesses ranging from specialist bookshops to craft retailers, and enjoy refreshments at numerous cafes and informal eating spaces. The street is also home to various cultural venues and community spaces, and frequently hosts markets, events, and seasonal celebrations that activate the public realm.

Old High Street remains the commercial and cultural heart of Folkestone, bridging the town's heritage with contemporary independent retail and creative culture. As part of the broader Folkestone revival, it demonstrates how historic town centres can be revitalised through the support of small independent businesses and community-focused enterprises, making it an essential stop for visitors exploring the town.