COMMUNITY VALUES
It's not just the town and sea at the heart of Folkestone – it's the people too!
The heart of Folkestone very much lies in the people that keep the town full of life. From independent businesses, local organisations and more particularly, community groups and clubs.
Whether you’re a Folkestonian from birth or a newcomer looking to find a fresh space to meet, grow and share – our town has got you sorted.
If you intend to take a visit soon and want to make your trip a little more memorable, why not try out one of these local groups and get a taste of what living in Folkestone is really about.
Wednesday Morning Dip Club
Sometimes, people only want one thing when they visit Folkestone and Hythe – and that’s to be beside the seaside.
Our coastline is one major perk about living here and something tourists (and us) will never get tired of – and something that the Wednesday Morning Dip Club know all too well.
Currently meeting every Wednesday morning at 6.30am, this free group welcomes everyone from first-time toe-dippers to experience sea swimmers to enjoy the magic on our doorstep.
Poppy and Rio who manage the group encourage anyone to immerse themselves in the cold-water community.
“Whether you’re looking to dip your toes or dive in, we offer advice, encouragement, and a supportive environment to help you enjoy the benefits of sea swimming.”
Join the community on their Instagram page where they post pictures and updates as well as their plenty of sea swim related chat.
“Cold water immersion offers numerous physical and mental health benefits.”
Wild With Wheels
Exploring the countryside and nature around us should be for everyone, but for some, traversing what we have to offer can be difficult.
That is where Wild with Wheels steps in as they offer free, accessible guided nature experiences all throughout Kent to make our wildlife more inclusive.
Meeting monthly, they organise a ‘Wheeled Adventure’ around the unique coastal and chalk grassland area of The Folkestone Warren.
They are fully inclusive and welcome all adults and children – but more importantly those who are wheelchair and mobility scooter users.
Their nature walks are also suitable for people with mobility limitations, chronic illnesses and other hidden disabilities.
Details about joining the group can be found here.
If you want to learn more about (or even visit) other nature sites in the district, click here.
Folkestone Wombles
Now you may have to take a look back to the 70s to remember this one.
The Wombles have been British kids TV and music icons for more than 50 years, but along with that, they are mainly known for their environment-focused messages.
With a habit of recycling and picking up litter, this group of small creatures inspired a local group in Folkestone to form their own pack of Wombles to help keep the streets and parks around town looking tidy.
The volunteers meet every month, are supplied with the trusty kit and equipment, and welcome all ages and abilities to join in on the wombling fun.
More information can be found on their Instagram and Facebook.
Work From Home Folk
In our modern age, working from home has become the norm. With benefits of avoiding the commute and working independently, it’s a great alternative to the usual nine to five.
However, a lot of people miss that inter-office banter you’d usually get from collaborating in-person with others.
That was until a trio of Folkestone newbies thought to offer the best of both worlds.
Work From Home Folk is a co-working crew who welcome individuals looking for a shared space to bring their work from out their bedroom and study, and into the community.
Co-organiser of the group, and local business owner Amy Kolsteren loves being able to facilitate this space every week.
“We’ve found that Folkestone is the perfect location for our group because of all the fun and creative people we’re surrounded by.
“It also helps that there are many beautiful coffee shops that we rotate through as the years go on. We’d love for you to come along and see if you like the vibe!”
To find out when they are next meeting, visit their Instagram page.
If you’re looking to visit and want to make a stay of it, why not visit our 5 extraordinary places to stay in district.
“This is not a networking event; there is no agenda and definitely no sales pitches!”