Folkestone Creative Quarter: Galleries, Shops & the Old High Street

Folkestone's Creative Quarter, centred on the Old High Street, is one of the most successful arts-led regeneration projects in England. Once a run-down area of empty Victorian terraces, it has been transformed since the early 2000s into a thriving community of artists, galleries, independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.

The Old High Street

The Old High Street drops steeply from the town centre down to the harbour, flanked by Victorian buildings now home to a mix of independent businesses. Many of the properties are studios or live-work spaces for artists and makers, and the street has a genuine creative energy that distinguishes it from typical high streets.

Folkestone Quarterhouse — a converted Victorian pub — is the main arts and performance venue in the Creative Quarter, hosting theatre, music, comedy, and live events throughout the year.

Folkestone Triennial

Every three years, Folkestone hosts the Folkestone Triennial — a free public art festival that brings internationally known artists to create site-specific works across the town. The Triennial has become one of the most significant public art events in the UK, with past editions featuring work by artists including Martin Creed, Tracy Emin, and Michael Landy. Works from previous editions remain permanently installed around the town.

Independent shops and galleries

The Creative Quarter has a strong concentration of independent galleries, antique and vintage shops, independent cafes, and artisan food businesses. The Folkestone Book Festival takes place annually and is based in the Creative Quarter.

Getting to the Creative Quarter

The Creative Quarter is a 5-minute walk from Folkestone Central station, down the hill from the main town centre. Parking is available in the town centre car parks, from which it is a short walk. The steep Old High Street is pedestrianised and free from traffic.