Kissing in Kent

Botany Bay, Deal Pier, Turner Contemporary...top kissing spots

St Valentine's Day in only a week away. Apparently the origins of this day began in the court circles of England and France in the 14th century and it is thought that it linked in with the coupling of birds. Whether you love or loathe it, it is a time to think about doing something different. So, I've given some thought to good spots for  "kissing in Kent" and have a few suggestions which can be enjoyed if you fancy being romantic, or visited at other times of the year.

Botany Bay near Kingsgate in Kent

Botany Bay, Kingsgate, Kent

This is a stunning sandy beach, with sheer white chalk cliffs, which have been tunnelled out by the sea, forming natural white arches perfect for a kiss. Although beware the nesting seagulls overhead, and take particular note of the tide, as these cliffs and the beach become cut off at high tide.

Sandy beach at Botany Bay

If this beach looks familiar, you may have seen it on the advertising for Kent at St Pancras International and on the London tubes. Now, with the High Speed trains from London to Ramsgate and Margate, our corner of East Kent is more accessible than ever.

Deal pier
At over 1026 feet in length, you can take a stroll down Deal's pier, passing the fishermen on route, and steal a kiss at the furthest end. On a clear day you should be able to see France, and if the tide is right you may see the waves breaking on the six mile stretch of the Goodwin sands - home to a colony of seals and the death of many a ship which has become caught in it's sinking sandy banks.

The licensed restaurant at the end of of the pier - Jasin's Restaurant - is a RIBA awarded Best Constructed Building in Kent, and serves food all day, so if you fancy a full-English, excellent fish and chips, or one of the specials, and love gazing at the sea, this is a special spot.

Turner Contemporary, Margate
What could be more symbolic of Valentine's Day than the Auguste Rodin marble sculpture, The Kiss. Prominently featured at the art gallery, framed by the sun-like art installation with the sea as a backdrop, this is well worth a visit. The cafe has excellent food, lovely teas including Jasmine Pearl from Teapigs, delicious seafood and ever so tempting range of cakes.