Explore the Bayle: Folkestone’s Oldest Quarter Through History and Stone
Parish Church of St Mary and St Eanswythe, Church Street, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 1SE
Wander through the winding lanes of the Bayle — the ancient heart of Folkestone — and uncover the stories held within its buildings, boundaries, and hidden corners. This guided walking tour, led by local historian and geologist Steve Friedrich, brings together centuries of human history, natural landscape, and architectural change in one richly layered experience.
The Bayle has been a place of settlement, defence, worship, trade, and community for well over a thousand years. Its streets still echo with traces of monastic life, maritime industry, Victorian expansion, and the quieter domestic histories that shaped the town we know today. Along the way you’ll hear how geology influenced where people built, why the landscape looks the way it does, and how the area evolved from a small hilltop community into a defining part of Folkestone’s identity.
Expect a relaxed, engaging walk with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and take in details you may never have noticed before.
Guide: Steve Friedrich, local historian and geologist
On‑the‑day contact: Vicky Friedrich – 07547 183441
Location: The Bayle area, Folkestone
Meeting Point: Inside the Parish Church of St Mary and St Eanswythe - look for the Heritage Open Days stand.
Timings
- Saturday 12 September:
- 13:00 - 14:00
Location & directions
Parish Church of St Mary and St Eanswythe, Church Street, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 1SE
- Contact on day:
- Vicky Friedrich
- Telephone number:
- +447547183441
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking preferred
- Booking conditions:
- Please book your tickets via the Eventbrite link. If you’re unable to use the link, you can email the organiser with your booking details and any access needs so we can make sure everything is arranged for you.
- Booking contact name:
- Vicky Friedrich
- Booking telephone number:
- +447547183441
- Booking email:
- [email protected]
- Booking website:
- https://www.eventbrite.com/e/explore-the-bayle-folkestones-oldest-quarter-through-history-tickets-1991045117544?aff=oddtdtcreator
- Booking opens:
- 01 Jun 2026 12:00 AM
- Booking closes:
- 12 Sep 2026 12:00 AM
Additional information
- Max number of people:
- 15
- Estimated duration:
- 1 hour(s)
