Folkestone in Kent is an important port and tourist centre in the region. Folkestone is a part of Folkestone and Hythe local government district with its own town council. Folkestone has a population of about 25,000 people. Folkestone’s economy was originally based on fishing and trade but today it relies heavily on tourism to support the small port. Folkestone harbour is home to Europe’s largest cross-channel ferry operated by P&O Ferries that takes passengers from Folkstone to Calais in France which is then connected to Dover in Britain by a car shuttle train service.
Folkestone began as a fishing village whose natural harbour allowed traders ships from mainland Europe safe passage during ancient wars where they could find protection within Folkestone bay, Folkestone was an important port in ancient Roman times.