Zig-Zag Path
A beautifully restored historical path in Folkestone, offering unique coastal views and a peaceful descent to the shoreline.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Zig-Zag Path
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored historical path in Folkestone, offering unique coastal views and a peaceful descent to the shoreline.
"A refreshingly different experience with a beautiful piece of functional art."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is a descent, so good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe walk. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone to snap the stunning coastal scenery and unique path design. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Zig-Zag Descent
Coastal path
A beautifully designed path with informative plaques, blending art and nature for a unique descent to the sea.
Coastal Views
Along the path
Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the sea, offering a peaceful and scenic experience.
Caves and Grottoes
Along the path
Discover intriguing caves and grottoes carved into the rocks, adding a touch of mystery to your walk.
Lower Leas Coastal Park
Bottom of the path
Connects to a beautiful park with amenities like coffee stands and public toilets, perfect for a relaxing break.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Accessibility and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is a descent, so good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe walk. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone to snap the stunning coastal scenery and unique path design. :camerawithflash:
☕ Grab a Coffee
There's a coffee stand at the bottom near the Lower Leas Coastal Park for a refreshing break. :coffee:
🚻 Public Toilets Available
Convenient public toilets are located at the bottom of the path. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is a descent, so good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe walk. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone to snap the stunning coastal scenery and unique path design. :camerawithflash:
☕ Grab a Coffee
There's a coffee stand at the bottom near the Lower Leas Coastal Park for a refreshing break. :coffee:
🚻 Public Toilets Available
Convenient public toilets are located at the bottom of the path. :toilet:
🌳 Explore the Park
Don't miss the Lower Leas Coastal Park at the bottom for more leisurely exploration. :park:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Zig-Zag Path's unique design and beautiful coastal views, calling it a refreshingly different and peaceful experience. The restored path, with its informative plaques and natural integration, is a highlight, leading down to the enjoyable Lower Leas Coastal Park. Some note it's more about the walk itself than specific attractions.
"Lovely walk.. with stunning views. Good activity on a nice sunny day. Free to visit. When we were there it started raining so we had to hide under the caves but it was fun overall."
S H
"A Refreshingly Different Experience at Zig Zag Path, Folkestone
This was one of my more unique experiences. While there isn’t much in terms of attractions or activities, the walk itself — through the zig-zag path — offers a new dimensional view that makes it quite special. The design of the path is a beautiful piece of functional art, filled with informative plaques and thoughtful architecture that blends into nature.
The real highlight is the view from the top — it’s peaceful and scenic, especially for those who enjoy slow, mindful walks. It's a great spot if you're looking for something quiet and offbeat to explore in Folkestone."
Kavin Raj M
"Gorgeous walking path down to the shoreline. It felt like walking through a botanical garden with all the different plants and flowers around.
There is a coffee stand at the bottom, as well as public toilets. There are also benches carved into the rocks along the way which you can stop and rest on."
S T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Zig-Zag Path is located in Folkestone, Kent. It's situated between the Leas Cliff Hall and the Band Stand, leading down to the Lower Leas Coastal Park. You can access it from the top near The Leas or from the bottom via the coastal park. Many visitors arrive in Folkestone via train or car.
There are several parking options in Folkestone, with street parking and car parks available near the top of The Leas. Some visitors mention parking near the harbour arm as well.
Folkestone Central train station is a short walk or taxi ride from the Zig-Zag Path. It's a convenient option if you're arriving by public transport.
Yes, Folkestone is well-connected by train, and the Zig-Zag Path is accessible from the town center. Buses also serve the area.
You can start your walk from the top near The Leas for a scenic descent, or from the bottom in the Lower Leas Coastal Park for an ascent. Both offer unique perspectives.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Zig-Zag Path is a free public attraction. You can explore its unique design and enjoy the coastal views without any admission fee.
The Zig-Zag Path is generally accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor public space. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
The Lower Leas Coastal Park, which the Zig-Zag Path leads to, is also free to enter and explore.
There are no booking requirements. It's a walk-in attraction, making it easy to visit spontaneously.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. Daylight hours are best for appreciating the path and views.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The path is a beautifully restored, winding route with informative plaques, benches carved into rocks, and interesting grottoes and caves. It offers a unique and scenic descent to the shoreline.
Yes, children often enjoy the novelty of the zig-zag design, the caves, and the connection to the beach and park. Adult supervision is recommended.
Yes, there are public toilets and benches carved into the rocks along the path for resting. A coffee stand is also available at the bottom in the Lower Leas Coastal Park.
You'll experience wonderful coastal views of the sea and the Folkestone shoreline. The higher you go, the more expansive the panorama becomes.
The walk itself is relatively short, but you can spend more time enjoying the views, resting on benches, and exploring the caves. Allow 30-60 minutes for a leisurely experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden hour glow.
The unique winding design, the blend of architecture and nature, the coastal backdrop, and the intriguing caves and grottoes provide diverse photographic opportunities.
Every turn offers a new perspective. The top provides a wide view, while the lower sections offer intimate shots of the path's details and the sea.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with Folkestone & Hythe District Council for any restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
Photos showcasing the winding path, the sea views, and the unique architectural elements are popular. Capturing the journey down or up the path is also common.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
At the bottom, you'll find the Lower Leas Coastal Park, which offers more space to run around, and there's a coffee stand and public toilets, making it convenient for families. Remember to keep a close eye on children, especially near the edges and in the caves. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone!
🚶 Solo Travelers & Mindful Walkers
With benches strategically placed along the route, you can pause, rest, and simply enjoy the tranquility. The path offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle, making it a perfect spot for mindful walking and quiet contemplation.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic lighting. The interplay of light and shadow on the path and the sea can create truly memorable images. Don't forget to capture the details of the informative plaques and the unique rock carvings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Restoration of the Zig-Zag Path
Following World War I, the path was part of a public works scheme aimed at providing employment for returning soldiers. Hundreds of local war veterans were mobilized to build this new ornamental feature within the Lower Leas Coastal Park, transforming it into a significant local landmark.
More recently, the path has undergone restoration as part of the award-winning Coastal Park Development. This revitalization has not only preserved its historical significance but also enhanced its beauty and accessibility, ensuring it remains a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike. The thoughtful architecture and integration with nature are testaments to this successful restoration.
Experiencing the Zig-Zag Path: A Traveler's Perspective
The walk itself is frequently highlighted as peaceful and scenic, particularly for those who enjoy slow, mindful exploration. The presence of benches carved into the rocks provides opportunities to rest and soak in the surroundings. The path also features intriguing caves and grottoes, adding an element of discovery to the journey.
Many reviewers emphasize the stunning views from the top, describing it as a great spot for quiet contemplation. The path's connection to the Lower Leas Coastal Park, complete with a coffee stand and public toilets, makes it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a leisurely outing.
Flora and Fauna Along the Coastal Path
While specific flora and fauna aren't always detailed, the coastal environment suggests a diverse ecosystem. Visitors can expect to see coastal vegetation adapted to the salty air and sea breezes. Birdlife is also common in such seaside locations.
The integration of this natural beauty with the man-made path creates a harmonious experience, making the walk visually appealing and a pleasant sensory journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit