Deal is located on the English Channel eight miles north-east of Dover and is becoming a real hit with Kent-based foodies thanks to Deal Farmers’ Market, which takes place at the Astor Theatre on the first Saturday of every month. Kent produce includes bread, cakes, cheese, chocolate, fudge, chutneys, meat, juice, pies, pastries and vegetables. And for daily top ups, visit Walmer Court Farm Shop, which offers fresh fruit and vegetables as well as drinks.
The former fishing, mining and garrison town of Deal is based eight miles south of Ramsgate. It is also close to Walmer, a possible location for Julius Caesar’s first visit to England. Becoming a “limb port” of the Cinque Ports in 1278, Deal became the busiest port in England. These days, it is known as a seaside resort with an award-winning high street, smugglers’ lanes, thriving independent shops and good cafés and pubs including the Deal Hoy, which is known for its real ale, and The Berry, which is known for its award winning ales, and real ciders.
While you’re in the area, it’s worth visiting Deal Castle, which was built by Henry VIII to protect England from European invasion and was designed with an attractive rose floor plan. Also check out St Leonard’s Church, which is part Norman and features a cupola maintained by Trinity House as a landmark for shipping, and the quirky maritime clock: the Timeball Tower.
