Top 10 active things to do in Folkestone and Hythe

1. Serve up some family fun with padel at 3Hills 

Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK, and spring is the perfect season to give it a go. Outdoor courts at Padelstars 3 Hills make it easy to enjoy this fun sociable game.

Blending elements of tennis and squash, wider racquets and enclosed courts make this activity super family-friendly so everyone can get involved!

Refuel nearby: Reward yourself with coffee, snacks or drinks from the 3 Hills sports bar on site – rest and refuel as you watch live sports with great views across the sports ground.

2. Climb and Skate at F51

Rainy spring days are no problem at F51, the world’s first indoor multi-storey skatepark. Scale the colourful climbing walls, tackle the skate bowls or test your balance on the beginner-friendly areas, with options for open sessions or private tuition.

Whether you’re trying something new, building confidence or simply burning off energy, there’s something here for all ages and abilities – making it a perfect all-weather activity.

Refuel nearby: Take a short stroll to walkable pizzeria Lubens for a well-earned bite post-climb — their freshly made pizzas are ideal for refuelling after an energetic session.

3. Out on the water – active things to do in Folkestone Hythe and Romney Marsh

Glide across calm coastal waters in Folkestone and Hythe on a paddleboard or canoe and experience the shorelines from a fresh perspective. Whether it’s paddling around the Harbour or down Hythe’s Royal Military Canal, life on the open water is as relaxing and energising as it gets.

Spring’s milder conditions make this one of the most refreshing active things to do in Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh. Seapoint in Hythe and Folkestone Sea Sports are great starting points for equipment hire and advice.

Refuel nearby: Enjoy beachside bites at The Lazy Shack in Hythe or any of the Harbour Arm food vendors in Folkestone.

4. Take the plunge with sea swimming and a sauna

For the ultimate invigorating coastal experience, try sea swimming  There are various sea swimming groups that meet in the area, or just enjoy the freedom to take the plunge in any safe area of beach.

To truly level up the experience, follow up your swim with a session at the brand new Sea Scrub Sauna. With two wood-fired saunas, a communal cold plunge tank, a hot tub, proper warm showers, and a full café serving a Japanese lunch menu, it’s the ultimate relaxation experience.

5. Stretch, reset and recharge with yoga

Spring is a wonderful time to reconnect with your body and mind, and yoga offers the perfect balance of movement and calm.

For a truly immersive experience, try a heated class at Hotpod Yoga Folkestone, where sessions take place inside softly lit pods warmed to around 37°C, creating a cocoon-like environment designed to help muscles relax and stretch more deeply.

If you prefer something intimate and community-focused, Yoke offers a peaceful studio tucked beneath Guildhall Street. With small class sizes and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for all ability levels.

For those drawn to outdoor-inspired or holistic yoga experiences, sessions with India (run by India Pearson) often blend movement with mindfulness and breathwork, encouraging a deeper connection with nature and wellbeing – a perfect match for the restorative energy of spring. She also runs SUP yoga for anyone feeling super adventurous!

Refuel nearby: After a session, enjoy nourishing food and fresh coffee at the café inside Yoke, where wholesome dishes and homemade treats make a satisfying post-yoga reward.

6. Cycle coastal routes and the Royal Military Canal

Cycling along coastal paths, beside the tranquil Royal Military Canal or across the flat Romney Marsh area is one of the most scenic ways to explore. With beautiful views, spring blossoms, fresh air and longer days, it’s an ideal time ideal for both leisurely rides and longer adventures.

Refuel nearby: Stop for refreshments at Unit1 along the routes in Hythe, a popular cyclist stop with snacks, local drinks and freshly made meals to fuel the next leg of your ride!

7. Build strength at Grace Hill Studios pilates

Pilates is perfect for strengthening muscles, improving posture and supporting overall wellbeing. Private and grouped sessions at Grace Hill Studios provide expert instruction in a welcoming environment. Book early to avoid disappointment as the classes are super popular with locals and visitors alike.

Refuel nearby: Enjoy a nourishing lunch or coffee at any of the independent cafes on the old high street – Steep Street is a short walk away and serves delicious homemade bakes and sandwiches.

8. Relax and recharge at Hythe Imperial Spa & Fitness Centre

After an active day, unwind at this impressive beachfront hotel, golf club and wellness hub. Set just steps from the sea, the Hythe Imperial Spa & Fitness Centre offers a state-of-the-art gym alongside excellent leisure facilities, including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam rooms and a full programme of fitness classes to suit different abilities and interests.

For those looking to fully relax, a range of spa treatments are available – perfect for soothing tired muscles after cycling, running or time on the water. With both memberships and day passes available, it’s an easy addition to your itinerary, whether you’re visiting for a short break or planning a regular wellness routine.

9. Join the community at Parkrun on Folkestone Leas

Kickstart your weekend with a 9am Saturday morning Parkrun along the scenic Folkestone Leas, where sweeping sea views provide the perfect backdrop for a refreshing start to the day. With a friendly, supportive atmosphere, it’s suitable for runners, joggers and walkers alike, making it a great way to get active while enjoying the fresh coastal air.

Along the route and nearby, you’ll pass some of Folkestone’s most recognisable Victorian landmarks. Take time afterwards to explore the historic Folkestone Bandstand, admire the elegant gardens, or the traditional Leas Lift – a beautifully restored Victorian funicular railway linking the clifftop with the harbour below. With its heritage charm and wide-open vistas across the Channel, this stretch of coastline offers plenty to enjoy before or after your run.

Refuel nearby: Celebrate your finish with breakfast, coffee or a light snack at Leas Cliff Hall Café, where you can relax and soak up the sea views while planning the rest of your day.

10. Tee off at scenic coastal and countryside golf courses

For those who enjoy combining fresh air with friendly competition, golf is one of the most rewarding active things to do in Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh. The area is home to several welcoming courses, each offering its own character.

At Lydd Golf Club, golfers can enjoy a classic links course set against the dramatic backdrop of Romney Marsh. With wide fairways and coastal breezes adding an extra challenge, it’s a fantastic choice for both experienced players and those looking to improve their game.

Nearby, is Sene Valley Golf Club, set on the downs with wonderful views to the English Channel. Challenge your game on the undulating greens and enjoy the stunning backdrop across the coastline of Hythe.

For striking views across the rolling Kent countryside, Etchinghill Golf Club delivers a memorable experience. Set in the beautiful Elham Valley, this challenging course rewards players with panoramic vistas stretching across rolling hills and farmland making it as visually rewarding as it is enjoyable to play.

Closer to the coast, Littlestone Golf Club is steeped in history and widely regarded as one of the finest traditional links courses in the region. Its fast-running fairways and coastal setting create a classic golfing experience.

Refuel nearby: Many of the clubhouses offer excellent post-round refreshments, or head into nearby towns such as Hythe or New Romney to enjoy cafés and pubs perfect for celebrating a great round.