Seaside village with rainbow homes and sandy beach is 'UK's Riviera'

This quaint seaside village in Kent is brimming with charm and personality, boasting vibrant quirky homes, crystal clear waters, and a laid-back vibe. It's our county's very own Riviera - there's even a sign 'The Riviera' to confirm it - and it's definitely worth a visit.

Welcome to Sandgate, a perfect spot for leisurely exploration if the weather holds up. You can stroll through the town, taking in the picturesque properties and flower-laden gardens, and spotting delightful 'holiday vibe' details like hanging baskets, eccentric windows, and intriguing balconies.

If you're seeking inspiration for house painting, this coastal village nestled between Folkestone and Hythe will have you reaching for your paint roller in no time.

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The houses are painted in a true spectrum of colours, ranging from bright green, to a soft lavender, to aquamarine and sun-bleached terra cotta reminiscent of Spain. The sea at Sandgate's pebble beach boasts 'excellent' rated bathing water quality, a status it has maintained for the past eight years.

However, in May, swimmers were advised by the Environment Agency to steer clear of the beach due to sewage pollution caused by a damaged pipe. Southern Water, however, assured that it had not affected the bathing water, reports Kent Live.

The beach has also consistently held a Seaside Award for the past 12 years.

Amenities such as toilets, shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants are conveniently located on the High Street just a few minutes away. There's also a promenade where you can enjoy a 1.5-mile walk to Folkestone or a three-mile stroll to Hythe.

There are three council car parks available: Castle Road and Wilberforce Road, where charges reach £4.50 for up to four hours; and Gough Road, which comes free of charge but offers just six spaces.

Last year, Rightmove crowned Sandgate as one of the 10 priciest seaside locations in Britain for house purchases, with average sale prices hitting £495,009.

It hasn't featured in the newly released rankings, though Whitstable and Hythe have made the cut. Anyone considering property investment in Sandgate now would be looking at an average of £435,995 for the past year.

Overall sale prices climbed six per cent compared to the previous year, yet dropped 21 per cent from 2022's peak. The majority of transactions involved flats, which commanded an average of £233,438.

Some of the most stunning properties perch on hillsides with sweeping Channel views. Housing also extends along the Esplanade and stretches towards the interior.

The area buzzes with activity, as Sandgate's High Street boasts an array of restaurants, cafés, bars, and pubs. The beach earns 4.3 stars out of five from 199 Tripadvisor reviewers.

Whilst the most recent pair of reviews partly grumble about public music playing, one visitor's said: "I've always loved Sandgate beach and frequent this area a lot over the summer. It's great to have a lovely walk or bike ride next to the coast.

"Lovely views, and feels like you're somewhere else. Great to just take your mind off everyday issues, to relax and take in the lovely sea air, sound of the sea and birds. Love this place."

On a day when the skies are clear, you can feast your eyes on the coast stretching towards the enigmatic Dungeness, with France occasionally peeking through the horizon. Sandgate Park, too, has upped its game with fresh play surfaces introduced last year, complete with hopscotch for the older generation to share some old-school fun with the kids.

Then there's The Famous Ship Inn, a beloved community haunt that dishes up freshly netted fish and chips, boasting a top-deck terrace with breathtaking views.

Don't forget about the cosy log fire – a perfect spot to remember when the leaves start to fall. And if you're strolling along Granville Parade, pop into the Boat House Café, which commands a stunning view of the beach.

With an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor from 126 reviews, it's a hit for scrumptious lunches and breakfasts. A recent review gushed: "I've been here a few times now and the first time I had their hot dog with onions and wow, it was lovely.

"The second and third time I went I had their Greek salad and oh my goodness, it is spectacular and the owners are very welcoming. I'm definitely recommending this place and 100 per cent going back, so much so I'm literally on my way there in 10 minutes with my daughter."

One of Sandgate's most celebrated former residents was the beloved actress Hattie Jacques, and you'll quickly spot a blue building bearing a commemorative plaque marking her birthplace as you stroll down the High Street. She remains the cherished English comedy star best remembered for her appearances in the iconic Carry On film series, though her talents graced stage, radio and television throughout her prolific career.

The village was also home to author H. G. Wells, hailed as "the father of science fiction". Beyond his imaginative novels, he penned non-fiction works and established himself as a respected journalist, sociologist and historian.

Delving deeper into history, you must explore Sandgate Castle, constructed during Henry VIII's reign to guard the beach and coastal route to Dover rather than protect a harbour. This Grade I-listed fortress boasts an extensive defensive heritage.

By 1808, the central tower had been converted into a Martello tower design. Roughly one-third of the original fortress has since been lost to time.

The village also houses the Shorncliffe Redoubt, a Napoleonic-era earthwork fortification linked to Sir John Moore and the 95th Regiment of Foot, famously known as the 95th Rifles. Don't miss St Paul's Church either, whose striking tower soars from the hillside - it's absolutely stunning.