Location

Herne Bay is a quaint English seaside town and a popular destination for holidaymakers seeking both the relaxation of a beach getaway and a thriving local visitor scene complete with charming seaside cafes, tea rooms, restaurants, independent shops, boutiques and tourist attractions.

Guests of Bellevue by the Bay are not only positioned just yards from the beach but are also a stone’s throw from Herne Bay’s most famous attractions, including the world’s first freestanding purpose-built Clock Tower and the town’s historic sea defence jetty (also known as Neptune’s Arm) as well as its famous pier (one of only two in Kent), promenade and central bandstand.

An English seaside town wouldn’t be complete, of course, without traditional amusement arcades, beach huts and pit stops to indulge in yummy fish and chips, ice cream and candy floss!

Bellevue boasts the best view over Herne Bay’s glorious beachfront and harbour, from its giant bay windows and its gorgeous balcony. In the summer, enjoy your prime view as the beach fills up and the jet skis and paddle boarders take to the water. Watching the waves crash into the beach in the winter, meanwhile, is amazingly therapeutic as you curl up in front of the grand marble fireplace.

Whatever the weather, you can’t beat a walk along Herne Bay’s breathtaking coastline – blissful in the sun and soul stirring on a windy day (blowing all the cobwebs away!). Turning right from the front entrance of Bellevue, you can stroll to ‘The Downs’, the King’s Hall or further on to the historic and imposing Reculver Towers, home to one of the earliest Roman forts. 

Cyclists or keen walkers can also go further to Minnis Bay, a secluded sandy beach popular for windsurfing, water sports and kite surfing.

Turning left from the front entrance of Bellevue, you’ll immediately stroll through the aforementioned promenade and past the Clock Tower, Neptune’s Arm and pier, heading further into Swalecliffe, a popular birdwatching spot, or walking to Whitstable Castle within an hour. Barely a few minutes on foot from Bellevue by the Bay will also get you to the Seaside Museum, showcasing olde Herne Bay, and the Kavanagh, a charming (and very cheap) independent cinema in a Greco-inspired building.

If that isn’t enough, Herne Bay is also a fantastic base to explore other wonders of Kent, affectionately known as the Garden of England. Wander the extensive woodlands and hiking trails of Clowes Wood just five miles away; experience Canterbury’s picturesque cobbled streets and world-famous cathedral 20 minutes away by car or bus; spend the day at Margate’s Dreamland theme park or renowned Turner Contemporary art gallery, also only 20 minutes away; or reach the awe-inspiring White Cliffs of Dover in a little over half an hour, to name just a few nearby attractions.

Read more about our local recommendations and attractions. If you have any questions about how to make the most of your stay in beautiful Herne Bay, let us know and we’d be delighted to share our tips!