Herne Bay Clock Tower

The clock tower dominates Herne Bay's seafront like a Victorian sentinel keeping watch over the Thames estuary. It's a proper landmark - you can spot it from miles along the coast, and once you're up close, the sheer scale of the thing is impressive. Built in the 1830s, it's one of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the world, though these days it functions as a clock tower rather than a beacon.

Walking out to it takes you along the pier, which is half the appeal. The tower itself sits at the end, rising up against the sky with genuine character. It's not a place where you'll spend hours inside - there's no museum or cafe attached - but the walk out is bracing, and the views back towards the town and across the water are worth the trip. On a clear day you can see right across the bay.

Historically minded types will get a kick out of understanding what it once was. Kids find it an interesting detour whilst exploring the pier, though they might need a bit of encouragement to walk the full distance. The real value comes if you're staying in the area - it's part of a proper seaside experience rather than a standalone attraction.

Neighbouring Whitstable is just down the coast and worth combining with a visit here. If you're basing yourself at Seaview Holiday Park or Nethergong Camping, this makes a decent morning or afternoon walk. Free to visit, naturally.