Ostend

Ostend

Ostend has its origins in the 15th century as a little fishing village. The city's fortunes have always been linked to the sea and it became a major port in the 18th century. In 1784 an Englishman, William Hesketh, had the brilliant idea of offering visiting beach walkers refreshments. He opened the first refreshment beach tent and thus became the founder of the Ostend tourist industry.