History
Deal is a quiet seaside resort town located between Ramgate and Dover famous for it's maritime history. Deal was part of the federation of the Cinque Ports as a limb port because of it's access to the Downs, an area of water that was a gathering point for refurbished and newly-built vessels that were being released from the Chatham Dockyard. The Downs was also a location of safe anchorage for inclement weather, unloading of goods onto smaller vessels, and a point of defence for warships. By the 18th century, the Downs made Deal one of the most important ports in England. Due to it's proximity to the Thames Estuary and the English Channel, the busiest shipping lane in the world, the Downs is still an important mass of water for economic purposes.
Due to it's location, Deal, like many other coastal towns in Kent, was a popular location for the smuggling of goods over the centuries. Today, it's maritime industry has been overtaken by tourism, but it's legacy continues to live in the town and draws many visitors.
Attractions
As a seaside resort town, the beaches are a main attraction for visitors. Many visitors also like to visit the famous pier, one of the longest in Kent. The pier is a leisure pier, the last of it's type in Kent. The pier is popular with sport fishing and has facilities such as a cafe, bar and lounge. The pier was fully restored in 1997.
Another popular attraction is Deal Castle, which overlooks the town. Deal Castle was built during the reign of Henry VIII.It was built to act as a line of defence against invasions from the French because Deal is an important strategic point for economical and military purposes. A unique feature of Deal Castle is that it was constructed in the shape of a Tudor Rose. The castle has been refortified several times, particularly during the Napoleonic wars, but suffered damage during the second world war. The castle is surrounded by a dry moat and draws many visitors each year.
Those interested in learning more about Deal's maritime history will enjoy the Deal Maritime Museum which recounts the history of the town, including the it's role in the famous Cinque Ports federation, Royal Marines, Smugglers and Goodwin Sands. Another location that recounts Deal's maritime history is the Time Ball Tower Museum.
Food and Places to Stay
Due to it's popularity as a seaside resort, there is wealth of options available for food and accommodation. All different types of cuisines are available in Deal at all different price points. There are also plenty of locations to buy fresh food such as fish freshly caught from the sea. Options include an Italian patisserie, a bakery, a cheese shop and a health food shop. There is also a weekly farmer's market selling fresh produce that is held on a regular basis as well.
For accommodation, there are bed &breakfast, quaint hotel inns, self-catering accommodation in the Victorian era buildings available.
Accommodation in Deal
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