The King Charles III England Coast Path offers fabulous coastal walking through historic, scenic and majestic landscapes. From Roman ruins to nature reserves, pristine Blue-Flag beaches to working harbours, colourful beach huts to picturesque pubs, the trail will take you on an amazing journey.
The part of the path that goes from Pegwell Bay near Ramsgate round to Minnis Bay and on to Reculver creates part of the continuous coastal walking route in Kent between Camber and Iwade near Sittingbourne of 117miles. This part of the path also includes the longest continuous stretch of coastal chalk in Britain and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The North East Kent Marine Protected Area is one of the best sites in Europe for wintering birds, chalk reef marine life and sandy beaches.
From Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve, an internationally important site for wetland birds follow the path onto cosmopolitan Ramsgate with the only Royal harbour in the country, ideal for a refreshment stop. Past the entrance to Ramsgate Tunnels, opposite the main beach before heading up the Grade II listed cliff stairs up to the clifftop beautiful rock gardens. Within King George VI Memorial Park is the hidden 19th Century Italianate Glasshouse and tearoom.
Broadstairs as loved by Charles Dickens with 7 sandy beaches, stunning chalk cliffs and timeless charm. See Dickens House Museum the home to Mary Pearson Strong, the inspiration for Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield or Bleak House, Dickens’ holiday home, sitting on the clifftop with views of Viking Bay. In the harbour spot turnstones, a bird well known to this part of the coast, which return each winter.
Walk on along the clifftop, seeing North Foreland Lighthouse built in 1691 close to Joss Bay (great for surfing), before seeing the chalk arch at Kingsgate Bay and the stunning chalk stacks at Botany Bay.
Margate, one of the old seaside resorts in the country with its artist connections and vibrant vibe mixed with seaside tradition. Home to Turner Contemporary for your art fix and Dreamland, with its Grade II* listed wooden rollercoaster. The path heads continues on pass the sandy beaches of Westgate and Birchington before heading along the Northern Sea Wall towards the towers at Reculver, one of the earliest Roman Forts built against Saxon raids.
Learn more about the path on National Trails website where an interactive map and detailed route descriptions can be found or the Explore Kent website.
Bird Wise East Kent aims to ensure people can enjoy the coast without disturbing the birds that fly here from as far as the Arctic. They host a variety of events including free walks and talks.
The King Charles III England Coast Path. Credit Explore Kent
King Charles III England Coast Path Signage
