A popular seaside town named as 2025’s best place to visit in the UK is undergoing a major glow-up as part of its £20million regeneration project. Major transformation work in Folkestone, Kent, began in April 2025, with construction expected to finish in time for this summer.
The mammoth project is gaining “real momentum” according to Folkestone & Hythe District Council, with the next phase of works set to commence soon. Under the proposals, Folkestone will see its ugly bus station in Bouverie Square replaced with a new park, which councillors are calling a “green heart” for the town, which was named Time Out’s best place to visit in the UK last year. The new public space will transform the town centre into “a much more inviting space, including a play area, to be enjoyed by residents and visitors,” the council said.
According to the council’s website, the transformation project is currently over 40% complete, but disruption will continue for the time being, with public toilets temporarily closed and set to reopen in the late spring. The area around the bus station has been closed off while the now-disused shelters are removed and planter walls demolished.
As part of the plans, the one-way traffic system will be removed, limiting traffic along the southern side of Middelburg Square, where the new bus stops will be located, according to Time Out.
James Butcher, the council’s cabinet member for place plan, heritage, tourism and district economy, said: “There is now real momentum with the Folkestone – A Brighter Future project and Bouverie Square is set to become a focal point for the community.
“While there is short-term disruption, I’m pleased we can deliver refurbished toilets as part of this exciting next chapter.”
Found just 90 minutes from London, Folkestone lies on the English Channel on the edge of the North Downs at the valley between two cliffs. It was once an important harbour, shipping port and was a fashionable coastal resort for most of the 19th and 20th centuries. It offers a blend of Victorian architecture, thriving independent shops in its Creative Quarter and coastal views.
It boasts several impressive coastal amenities, including the Sunny Sands beach, the Lower Leas Coastal Park and the scenic Zigzag Walk. Folkestone Harbour Arm was once the ferry port, but has now been transformed into a popular promenade with independent food stalls, bars and live entertainment. Known for the major international Folkestone Triennial art festival, the small coastal town also has the largest urban outdoor collection of contemporary art in the UK.
Folkestone was also named the best place to live in the South East in 2024 by The Sunday Times, citing its transformation, culture, and coastal charm. It offers high-speed rail services with fast access to London, making it ideal for commuters. It is also a relatively affordable alternative to other Kentish coastal towns, such as Whitstable.