Tontine Street
Folkestone's vibrant arts district, Tontine Street, pulses with galleries, creative workshops, and unique culinary spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Buzzing with events and openings
Tontine Street
Best Time
Buzzing with events and openings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Folkestone's vibrant arts district, Tontine Street, pulses with galleries, creative workshops, and unique culinary spots.
"A must-visit for art lovers, Tontine Street buzzes with creativity and unique venues."
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
SD Projects Reading Room
Tontine Street
An inspiring space with books, archives, and furniture offering a broad perspective on Islamic culture.
Pomu Folkestone
Tontine Street
A chic wine bar, pantry, and restaurant focused on local produce and community vibes.
The Stables Art Gallery
35-37 Tontine Street
Showcasing diverse exhibitions, this gallery is a key spot for contemporary art lovers.
SCHOOL Gallery
Tontine Street
Home to inaugural exhibitions, this gallery presents bold and imaginative contemporary art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Creative Pulse
Explore Beyond the Galleries
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Support Local Artists
Many galleries and studios are permanent fixtures, offering a chance to connect with local talent.
Wander and Explore
The street is best experienced by simply walking and discovering its many creative nooks.
Tips
from all over the internet
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.
Support Local Artists
Many galleries and studios are permanent fixtures, offering a chance to connect with local talent.
Wander and Explore
The street is best experienced by simply walking and discovering its many creative nooks.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎨 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Tontine Street offers numerous photo opportunities, from the unique exteriors of galleries like Pomu
to the art installations themselves. Capturing the vibrant street art and the dynamic atmosphere during events is highly recommended.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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🎨 Art Aficionados
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
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
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
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.
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.
Culinary Delights and Community Spaces
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit