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Sunset in Whitstable[/caption]
Some months ago my gorgeous niece Ella, who is nearly 15, wrote a post about visiting Barcelona. Now she's back with a terrific blog about Whitstable in Kent, her new favourite place....
Over to Ella:
"Holidays in England can often be the best kind. The travelling is easy, the language and customs are familiar, and there are so many cute and quirky little villages to explore. Recently, I’ve been lucky enough to discover one of these; a beautiful fishing town in Kent: Whitstable.
Whitstable is the perfect, picturesque, idyllic small town. It has everything you could possibly want, in terms of location, shops, restaurants and accommodation. Situated in Northern Kent, Whitstable is only a 20 minute drive away from Canterbury, a town rich in history, sites of interest and brilliant shopping opportunities!
When visiting Whitstable, you are certainly not short of shops to choose from. As well as the practical Boots, Budgens, various high street clothes shops and brand new Morrisons, there are some very interesting, unique ‘boutique’ shops, as well as numerous antique shops and a variety of charity shops. Not forgetting my personal favourite – the unbelievably delicious homemade cupcake shop, What’s up Cupcake. If there was one place I wish I could pick up and transport home, it would, without a doubt, be this perfect little shop! There’s no fault to be found in it – the food is incredible, the staff are friendly and welcoming – and even remember who you are and what you’ve previously bought!
The weekend is definitely the best time to be in Whitstable. Saturdays and Sundays are when the town really comes to life – not least due to the opening of the Harbour Village. Open every weekend (until Christmas) Whitstable Harbour Village offers a quirky, cute, alternative variety of stalls – selling everything ranging from oysters, to handmade cushions, to delicious waffles. This really is a brilliant experience – a seaside shopping experience in a beautiful working harbour, with a beautiful view. Whether you’re looking for art, food, gifts, toys, food, furniture or stained glass windows – there’s no doubt you’ll find something you love.
There is a wide variety of accommodation available. Although there aren’t as many B&Bs as one may think, the ones that are found here are certainly no disappointment. In particular, Copeland House is situated right on the beachfront; a perfect location with a perfect view. Many people own second homes in Whitstable, and those that are rented out for short visits make for extremely cosy, comfortable and relaxing places to be. I stayed in Coastguards Cottage, a stylish, well-looked after, comfortable cottage – with a gorgeous sea view.
As well as being a picturesque beach holiday destination, Whitstable is rich in history. Whitstable is famous for its oysters, which have been gathered there since Roman times. In 1830, Whitstable and Canterbury were home to the opening of one of the first railway lines in Europe. The Canterbury and Whitstable Railway was a public railway, and in 1834 the world's first season ticket was issued for use on the line, to take Canterbury passengers to the Whitstable beaches in the summer! There is a museum located in Whitstable town centre, packed with interesting exhibitions and things to do for all the family, including a regular programme of drop-in activities.
The atmosphere found in Whitstable is simply unlike anywhere else I’ve been. It’s a lively and extremely welcoming town; I’ve only encountered a small number of people who HAVEN’T said hello when I’ve passed them! The high street is quirky and vibrant, yet the entire town still has a unique and traditional feel to it; it’s just all-round a brilliant place to be. I can’t recommend it enough."
Read Ella's post about Barcelona and our post on Seven Super Reasons to stay in a B&B
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This week we've linked up with the lovely Coombe Mill at Country kids and also with the Sunday Traveller (just can't write it with one l!). 
Labels: Bamp;Bs, Bed and breakfast, Blog, Kent, UK, Whistable