Whitstable Oyster Yawl ‘The Favourite’

Dating back to the 1890s, the Favourite is the only remaining boat of its kind in Whitstable and the only yawl in pubic ownership. In the 19th Century the town’s oyster trade was flourishing, so much so that Whitstable’s fleet had over 100 of these yawls.

Originally built in 1890 by the Whitstable Shipping Company for Edward Carden, the proprietor for the Fisherman’s Arms. A building which is now a house on Island Wall, off from the town centre. The Favourite had a working life of over 50 years before it was damaged by fire from a German aircraft during the Second World War. The Favourite was eventually hauled ashore in 1953 before the Sea Wall was built, beginning what would be a preservation project. It now lies in a garden just off from the shingle bank for all visitors to see, here you can find a wonderful assortment of seaside flora typical to banks swept by strong salty sea winds.

Located right next to the Neptune pub, The Favourite is an easy stop off for those visiting Whitstable’s beautiful coast and makes for a free and interesting activity.