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Tontine Street

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

Folkestone's vibrant arts district, Tontine Street, pulses with galleries, creative workshops, and unique culinary spots.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Buzzing with events and openings

CrowdMedium
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Tontine Street - Image 1

Tontine Street

Best Time

Weekends

Buzzing with events and openings

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Folkestone's vibrant arts district, Tontine Street, pulses with galleries, creative workshops, and unique culinary spots.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-visit for art lovers, Tontine Street buzzes with creativity and unique venues."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Listings

Always check local listings for workshops, talks, and exhibitions happening on Tontine Street!

Discover New Eateries

Explore the unique food and wine spots like Pomu for a taste of local flavor.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

SD Projects Reading Room

SD Projects Reading Room

Tontine Street

An inspiring space with books, archives, and furniture offering a broad perspective on Islamic culture.

Pomu Folkestone

Pomu Folkestone

Tontine Street

A chic wine bar, pantry, and restaurant focused on local produce and community vibes.

The Stables Art Gallery

The Stables Art Gallery

35-37 Tontine Street

Showcasing diverse exhibitions, this gallery is a key spot for contemporary art lovers.

SCHOOL Gallery

SCHOOL Gallery

Tontine Street

Home to inaugural exhibitions, this gallery presents bold and imaginative contemporary art.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Creative Pulse

Tontine Street is Folkestone's vibrant arts hub, buzzing with galleries, workshops, and pop-up events. Check local listings for current exhibitions and performances before you visit to catch the best of the creative scene.

Explore Beyond the Galleries

While art is central, Tontine Street also boasts unique eateries and community spaces. Discover hidden gems and local flavors that add to the street's eclectic charm. It's a place to wander and be inspired.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Buzzing with events and openings
Crowd
Medium
When
During Folkestone Triennial
Why
Art installations fill the street
Crowd
High
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Enjoy intimate gallery openings
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Unfolding THIS WEEKEND in Folkestone 〰️ Between the Urban Room Folkestone (Harbour St, Folkestone CT20 1TP) and Brewery Tap (Tontine Street, CT20 1JR) come witness and be a part of a creative writing workshop, a fantastic artist talk, a sound-based performance and a sound and photography installation with artists local and international… See you there! (Have a look at our previous posts for f...
fstonefringe
291 likes • 5.9K views

Check Event Listings

Always check local listings for workshops, talks, and exhibitions happening on Tontine Street! TikTokInstagram

Discover New Eateries

Explore the unique food and wine spots like Pomu for a taste of local flavor. Instagram

‼️ TOMORROW NIGHT ‼️ watch for info! LEVANT opens with food, drink and film from 17:30 DJ set from 20:30 The Old Post Office Tontine Street Folkestone CT20 1JP See you there! ❤️
jacobbray
264 likes • 8.5K views
After weeks of impatiently watching @pomusfolkestone come to life on Tontine Street, I was squeezed into their testing preview this weekend. And the wait was so worth it. The former pub-turned-arts space has been transformed into what the original exterior tiles suggest it should have always been: the interiors are chic, the lighting is sexy, and the vibe oozes a kind of sophistication that doesn’...
coolasfolke
306 likes • 9K views

Support Local Artists

Many galleries and studios are permanent fixtures, offering a chance to connect with local talent. Instagram+1

Wander and Explore

The street is best experienced by simply walking and discovering its many creative nooks. Instagram

A new chapter on Tontine Street 🍇 Opening Thursday 10 July, @pomusfolkestone is transforming the former Brewery Tap as a neighbourhood spot for food, wine and community. This new wine bar, pantry and restaurant is rooted in local produce, low-waste principles and the belief that good food and wine should feel like home. Bookings are now open at www.pomus.co.uk #TontineStreet #NaturalWine #Win...
creativefstone
422 likes • 8.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Listings

Always check local listings for workshops, talks, and exhibitions happening on Tontine Street! TikTokInstagram

Discover New Eateries

Explore the unique food and wine spots like Pomu for a taste of local flavor. Instagram

Support Local Artists

Many galleries and studios are permanent fixtures, offering a chance to connect with local talent. Instagram+1

Wander and Explore

The street is best experienced by simply walking and discovering its many creative nooks. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Tontine Street is celebrated as Folkestone's vibrant arts district, drawing praise for its dynamic galleries, creative energy, and unique venues like Pomu. Visitors appreciate the concentration of contemporary art and the lively atmosphere during events. However, some find that opening hours can be inconsistent, requiring careful planning.

What People Like

Concentration of art galleries
Vibrant creative atmosphere
Unique venues like Pomu

What People Dislike

Inconsistent opening hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tontine Street is centrally located in Folkestone, Kent. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. If arriving by train, Folkestone Central station is a short walk away. Many visitors find it convenient to explore on foot once they arrive in the town center. TikTok

Absolutely! Tontine Street is designed for exploration on foot. Many of the galleries, studios, and eateries are clustered together, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll. Instagram

The best way to navigate Tontine Street is by simply walking. Keep an eye out for the various gallery entrances and event signs. Many creators share their locations on social media, so checking Instagram or TikTok can be helpful. Instagram

Yes, Folkestone has a good public transport network. Buses frequently stop near the town center, and Folkestone Central train station provides connections to major cities. From there, Tontine Street is a short walk. TikTok

Cycling is a great option for reaching Tontine Street, especially if you're coming from other parts of Folkestone. There are usually bike racks available in the town center for secure parking. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Tontine Street itself is free. However, individual galleries, workshops, or special events may have their own admission fees or require booking in advance. Always check the specific event details. TikTokInstagram

Opening hours can vary significantly between galleries and studios. Some have regular hours, while others operate based on exhibitions or events. It's best to check the social media or websites of individual venues like SD Projects or The Stables Art Gallery for their current hours. Instagram+1

Yes, Tontine Street frequently hosts free events, especially during festivals like the Folkestone Triennial or Open Art Folke. Keep an eye on local listings and social media for announcements of free talks, performances, and open studio days. Instagram

Following Tontine Street's creative venues on Instagram and TikTok is the best way to stay updated on upcoming exhibitions. Accounts like @creativefstone, @sdprojects.uk, and individual gallery pages often post announcements. Instagram+1

For popular workshops or artist talks, booking in advance is highly recommended. Information on how to book is usually provided in the event announcements on social media or venue websites. TikTok

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

Tontine Street is a hub for contemporary art, featuring a diverse range of mediums including painting, sculpture, installations, photography, and performance art. You'll find everything from established artists to emerging local talent. Instagram+1

Yes, Tontine Street offers several unique dining and drinking options. Pomu Folkestone is a popular spot for food and wine, and other venues may offer refreshments during events. Instagram+1

While Tontine Street is primarily an arts district, some exhibitions and events might be suitable for families. It's best to check the specific content and age recommendations for any event you plan to attend. TikTok

The atmosphere on Tontine Street is generally creative, vibrant, and community-focused. It's a place where artists and art lovers converge, often buzzing with energy during events and exhibitions. Instagram

Beyond art galleries, Tontine Street features creative businesses and community spaces. You might find independent shops or pop-up stalls during local festivals, offering unique crafts and goods. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Tontine Street offers numerous photo opportunities, from the unique exteriors of galleries like Pomu Instagram to the art installations themselves. Capturing the vibrant street art and the dynamic atmosphere during events is highly recommended. Instagram

Photography policies vary by gallery. Some may allow non-flash photography for personal use, while others might restrict it to protect the artwork. It's always best to check for signage or ask gallery staff before taking photos. Instagram

Street photography capturing the eclectic mix of art, architecture, and people is popular. Many visitors also focus on documenting the specific exhibitions and events happening on the street. Instagram

Look out for the distinctive architecture of venues like the former Brewery Tap, now Pomu, and the signage of various art spaces. The street itself, especially when adorned with event banners or installations, makes for great shots. Instagram+1

Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful light for photography, especially if there are any evening events or openings. However, the street is visually interesting at any time, with different moods throughout the day. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

🎨 Art Aficionados

Tontine Street is your paradise! Immerse yourself in a concentrated dose of contemporary art with numerous galleries like The Stables Art Gallery and SCHOOL Gallery showcasing diverse works. Don't miss SD Projects Reading Room for a unique cultural deep dive. Check event listings for artist talks and workshops to engage directly with creators. Instagram+2

Plan your visit around major art events like the Folkestone Triennial or Open Art Folke for an even richer experience, as the street often becomes an open-air gallery. The constant rotation of exhibitions means there's always something new to discover, making repeat visits highly rewarding.

foodie travelers

While art is the main draw, Tontine Street offers delightful culinary experiences. Pomu Folkestone is a must-visit for its focus on local produce, wine, and a welcoming atmosphere. Instagram It's the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or a glass of wine after exploring the galleries.

Keep an eye out for pop-up food vendors or special culinary events that often coincide with art festivals. These can offer unique local tastes and a chance to mingle with the community. The street's vibrant energy extends to its food scene, promising a satisfying experience for your taste buds.

Day-Trippers from London

Tontine Street is an excellent addition to a day trip to Folkestone. It's easily accessible from Folkestone Central station, making it a convenient destination after your train journey. Spend a few hours exploring the galleries and enjoying a meal at a spot like Pomu Folkestone before heading back. Instagram

To maximize your time, check the exhibition schedules in advance and prioritize the venues that most interest you. The compact nature of Tontine Street means you can experience a good portion of its artistic offerings within a few hours, leaving you time to explore other Folkestone attractions.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Creative Heart of Folkestone

Tontine Street has transformed into Folkestone's premier destination for contemporary art and culture. It's a dynamic street that consistently hosts a variety of creative events, from art exhibitions and artist talks to workshops and performances. The area is a testament to Folkestone's burgeoning reputation as an arts hub, attracting both local talent and international artists. TikTokInstagram

Key venues like SD Projects Reading Room offer unique cultural experiences, while Pomu Folkestone provides a stylish setting for food and wine, often hosting events. Galleries such as The Stables Art Gallery and SCHOOL Gallery showcase diverse and thought-provoking contemporary art, making Tontine Street a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Instagram+2

Beyond the established venues, the street frequently features pop-up installations and open studio events, particularly during festivals like the Folkestone Triennial and Open Art Folke. This constant flux of creativity ensures there's always something new and exciting to discover on Tontine Street, making it a vibrant and evolving cultural landscape. Instagram

Culinary Delights and Community Spaces

Tontine Street isn't just about art; it's also a place to savor local flavors and connect with the community. Pomu Folkestone, a former pub transformed into a chic wine bar, pantry, and restaurant, is a prime example. It champions local produce and low-waste principles, offering a dining experience that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Instagram

Other establishments on or near Tontine Street contribute to the street's lively atmosphere. Whether it's a pop-up food stall during an art festival or a permanent eatery, these spots provide opportunities to refuel and soak in the local ambiance. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding food-focused events or special menus, as Tontine Street often blends its artistic offerings with culinary experiences. Instagram

The presence of community spaces like the SD Projects Reading Room also adds another layer to Tontine Street's appeal. These areas serve as gathering points, fostering a sense of community and providing spaces for quiet contemplation or engaging discussions, further enhancing the street's multifaceted character. Instagram

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