Whitstable

It's just a few miles from Faversham to Whitstable and if the Kent coast is a hub for the arts then Whitstable is at its epicentre. Just 6 miles from Canterbury and home to many artists, crafters and writers, most week-ends see creative happenings including visual and performing arts events and exhibitions, craft fairs and concerts. Many are staged at the much loved Horsebridge Arts Centre which overlooks the sea and is open every day. It is also the venue for a variety of creative workshops run by Escape to Create.

For other creative pursuits it's a short walk to the Print Block located on the East Quay, where you can take short courses in silk-screen printing, whilst Whitstable Art Experiences offer a variety of courses for a range of abilities.

If you'd rather buy than create yourself, Whitstable has some great shopping opportunities. Frank in Harbour Street sells original, quirky and sometimes eccentric handmade products whilst in the High Street Taking the Plunge, often referred to as an Aladdin's cave, is full of interesting, unusual and gorgeous things, many with a vintage retro theme.

For original art there are many galleries in the town including Caxton Contemporary, the Fish Slab, a small, not-for-profit, contemporary art gallery located in the High Street near the Museum and Art Gallery. Whitstable Framing next door to the Museum also holds small exhibitions.

At week-ends, bank holidays and weekdays in the high season, Whitstable Harbour Village hosts an exciting community of local producers, designers, and artists. Housed in traditional timber fishermen's huts in the harbour, overlooking the fishing boats and next to the Thames sailing barge, Greta, it also provides numerous photo opportunities and inspiration for artists.

For other entertainment with a creative twist, The Whitstable Playhouse stages a mixture of performing arts including theatre, music and top comedy acts which have recently included Paul Merton and Harry Hill.

Whitstable Biennale is a festival of contemporary visual art and performance that is gaining international as well as local fame and takes place in numerous locations across the town from 19th June - 4th July in 2010.

Later in July, from 24th - 30th, the town renowned for its oysters celebrates the Whitstable Oyster Festival, an annual event that includes many opportunities to engage in creative pursuits as well as learn about the town's history and traditions.