Am I really writing a travel blog during the dumpster fire that is 2020? At a time when Mitchell and Webb’s ‘remain indoors’ sketch has astonishingly become a way of life? Well, you bet I am!

This is because I have it on good authority that it is, finally, summer (I’ve had to fact check this with a few trusty advisors, but as it stands, this is one of the things yet to be cancelled). So, while we may not be heading off on our holidays anytime soon, there’s no stopping us getting into the spirit of things and thinking about our favourite summer escapes – we’ve got summer 2021 plan for after all.

The destination at the top of my list is one that’s pretty close to home too. Deal is something of a hidden gem on the Kent coast; while it might not have the commercial clout Margate has as a seaside resort, it is overflowing with coastal charm and has more than enough history, attractions, restaurants and bars to keep you busy for a long weekend. Here are a few of my top picks.

Obviously, the first port of call when by the sea is to find a decent chippy. While there are a number of fish and chip shops on Deal seafront, I recommend nipping off to Middles Street Fish Bar, which is about 5 minutes from the main fray. The portions here are generous, the chips hit the sweet spot between perfectly crisp on the outside and soft in middle, and the fish is always flakey and flavourful. Obviously, these are best enjoyed sitting on the beach in the sunshine, however Middle Street does have a restaurant area too – so if you get caught out by a summer shower, you can still have your customary chippy tea.

Once you’ll suitably full, there are a number of great bars and pubs in to explore in Deal, each with its own quirks and charm. If you’re looking for local ale or craft beer, The Ship, and The Just Reproach both offer handpicked seasonal selections. The former is nestled among the Victorian terraces on Middle Street and serves up all the character you’d expect from a traditional cosy seaside pub. Meanwhile, the Just Reproach is Deal’s (and possibly Kent’s) only micro pub. Expect a friendly welcome, an abundance of interesting books and boardgames, and a great selection of local snacks and drinks, including delicious Kent ciders.

If beer isn’t your thing then be sure to pay a visit to Bloody Mary’s on the High Street – which is named for the very good reason that they do a seriously cracking Bloody Mary, alongside a vast and very reasonable drinks menu.

After all that – it’s probably time to get moving! As well as a sprawling seafront peppered with interesting architecture, such as the gloriously art deco Regent Cinema, and impressive brutalist pier, Deal is also a thrifters paradise with enough antique stores and charity shops to keep you exploring for a good few hours.

If you’re looking to round up your trip with a thoroughly British seaside experience, don’t forget to pick up some fresh, ready to eat seafood from the Deal Shellfish Stall, or pop into Deal Beach Parlour for a Mr Whippy or ice cream sundae. Decked out in soft pastels, 80s prints and plastic diner seats it’s delightfully kitsch, and will instantly take you back to any beach holidays from your youth. There is also of course, the obligatory seaside amusement arcade, and while not huge, you can easily lose an hour or two in here to a good range of unusual games, and of course, everyone’s favourite 2p machines.