'Beautiful' UK beach is a 'true gem' and 'feels like Spain'

A "hidden" beach has been dubbed a "slice of the Mediterranean." The beach, nestled on the edge of Folkestone in Kent, features an eye-catching coastlinein the shape of a mermaid's tail.

Aptly named Mermaid Beach, the pebble beach has been called a "hidden gem" by reviewers who praised the "peaceful ambiance and picturesque views." For locals, this will come as no surprise - but for those further away from the coast, Mermaid Beach could be the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustleof everyday life.

TikTokuser @wonder_lesea shared a clip showcasing the picturesque beach, mentioning it as a possible "day trip idea." The post was captioned: "Feels like Spain, but it’s Kent. Mermaid Beach, CT20 2DZ.

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"A hidden beach with turquoise water and a walking trail through cliffs and lush parkland. Like a slice of the Mediterranean – but just an hour from London.⠀

"1 hour by train from London to Folkestone Central, then a 25-minute scenic walk through Lower Leas Coastal Park. A place you’ll want to come back to."

The video racked up 168.5k views, more than 5,500 likes and many comments from excited fans. Among them, one person said: "The best place in my life, Folkestone I miss."

A second wrote: "Thanks to you [I] just booked a small holiday in Folkestone." A third added: "Really love it, discovered it this summer and it is amazing."

A fourth comment read: "This is one of the underrated seaside city and their beaches. Best beaches (sand + pebble), lovely town, suitable for hiking (near cliffs)."

The praise continued, with one person writing: "It's beautiful here," and a second said: "Oh how beautiful." Another added: "I was there last year for the first time and definitely it's my favourite till now, water is clean and the area is very nice, I went back a few times, lovely."

Over on TripAdvisor, many others praised Mermaid Beach too, with the location racking up a 4.6 star rating. Among the reviews, one person said: "Folkestone's Hidden Gem - Mermaid Beach. Nestled along the captivating coastline of Folkestone, Kent, Mermaid Beach is a true gem awaiting discovery.

"As an avid traveller seeking serene escapes, I found Mermaid Beach to be an absolute delight. I was enchanted by the peaceful ambiance and picturesque views (including that of France!) that stretched as far as the eye could see."

Another wrote: "Mermaid Beach is a winner. Lovely sheltered corner, shingle, gently sloping. Rocks and stuff to climb. Coastal Park just behind with large kids play area and of course the brilliant Mermaid cafe, coffees, ice cream, sandwiches and snacks. toilets in the Coastal park too."

Mermaid Beach is in Folkestone, Kent, and its postcode is CT20 2DZ. The nearest train station to Mermaid Beach is Folkestone Central, which is a 55 minute direct train from London's St Pancras International.

The beach is a 13 minute walk from the train station. There is also parking available if you are travelling by car.