Deal

Further south of Ramsgate is the elegant seaside town of Deal. Two historic castles, quaint seaside houses, pebble beaches and painted fishing boats provide a wonderful backdrop to the Deal Festival that takes place from 3rd - 17th July in 2010. Started as a festival of chamber music it now includes opera and street music, as well as exhibitions and workshops.

The Deal Maritime Festival takes place from 17th - 19th September in 2010 and in addition to a programme of folk music includes free street entertainment programme, children's events, storytelling, maritime walks and talks, exhibitions by local artists and craftspeople, workshops, ceilidhs and concerts.

The Landmark Centre in the High Street hosts the town's visitor information centre and a wide range of creative activities and workshops.

The beautiful Edwardian Astor Theatre has recently been refurbished as a venue for a variety of creative pursuits, including theatre and music performances, burlesque workshops and creative workshops for the whole family.

Wander along winding Georgian streets and see bustling delis, antique shops and art galleries including the Joem Art Gallery .

Nearby, picturesque towns and villages such as Walmer, Kingsdown, Sandwich and St Margaret's Bay also serve as an inspiration for many local and international artists.

En route from Deal to Dover, the Wallett's Court Hotel has joined forces with Kent artists to put on an exhibition of original oil paintings and photographs of Kent's coastline plus pottery and sculpture. The exhibition runs until 30 September 2010.

Close by you'll find the secluded cove at St. Margaret's Bay, often frequented by playwright Noel Coward and the author Ian Fleming. St Margaret's Bay is also the location of the Pines Calyx Eco Conference Centre, the beautiful venue for breaks organised by White Cliff Retreats, who plan to include photographic breaks in 2010.