We’ve got a spring in our step, and no doubt you have too, as we start to dream of summer escapes and how we can welcome in the new season in Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate
Spring into action
Fresh sea air, clear blue skies, the sun on your face… there’s nothing like being outdoors. Take a stroll or cycle along the 32 miles (51.4km) of stunning sandy beaches boasting infinite views out to sea, chalk cliffs and pretty rural villages, via the circular Viking Coastal Trail. Join a guided tour to discover hidden stories and admire stunning chalk cliffs. Get the heart pumping with a run along the seafront, go for a hole in one at our golf courses not just of the green kind with family adventures to be had at Lillyputt’s, Rascal Bay, Quex, Strokes and Lost Island (indoor).
Looking for something more serene? Try tai chi, yoga, pilates or even meditation at one of the many practices in each town. You can even go off mat and onto the beach, for a truly soul-enriching experience.
Minnis Bay, Broadstairs
Walk in the footsteps of history
It’s easy to believe we’re all about beaches and bays on the Isle of Thanet, but there’s rich heritage to discover with every step you take. Our cliffs are 80 million (yes million!) years old and the Romans landed here. In the 18th century, the restorative seawater bathing along our shores sparked the seaside holiday boom (Margate was the first place to have donkey rides and deckchairs). Ramsgate sent ‘little ships’ to Dunkirk and welcomed approximately 40,000 soldiers safely back from France during WWII.
The Isle’s beauty has attracted some of the nation’s most-admired artists, architects and writers, including JMW Turner, Charles Dickens and Augustus Pugin. Make the past your present with our many self-guided walking trails.
Chalk Cliffs
Awaken your senses
They say seeing is believing, and you’ll find plenty of visual wonders to marvel at along our coastline. Experience the seasons change before your very eyes as the flowers and trees burst into life or witness our truly unbelievable sunsets and sunrises (if you don’t believe us, check out our Instagram).
At the international-renowned gallery Turner Contemporary, get up close to contemporary and historic art on a visit to the latest exhibition. 2025 is the 250th anniversary of JMW Turner's birth (23rd April 1775), with the chance to see his oil sketch 'Waves Breaking on a Lee Shore at Margate (Study for 'Rockets and Blue Lights') on display.
Take the ultimate scenic journey with a ride upon Stagecoach’s Open Top Bus. Take in the sensational views between Stone Bay, Broadstairs, and the Boating Pool in Ramsgate, you can even hop on and off to explore each place en route (Selected dates from Easter and you can travel in either direction).
Open Top Bus
Make moments last a lifetime
A short break or day trip with your loved ones can guarantee much-needed quality family time. From a relaxing stroll on the beach, a gift from the many artists studios, galleries or shops to a delicious afternoon tea or meal at one of our many award-winning cafes and restaurants.
Make coastal memories to cherish being a detective with a Coastal Explorer Pack or enjoying fish and chips or seafood sat watching the sun set.
Coastal Explorer Pack
Open spaces, open mind
As a new season comes into bloom, our open spaces become a picture of colour, and peaceful havens. Marvel at the Italianate Glasshouse, a Grade II* listed historic monument in the grounds of King George VI Memorial Park, just a sea breeze from the water’s edge in Ramsgate.
See what you can spot in Ellington Park, and find what wildlife and birds stir at Monkton Nature Reserve and Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve.
Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve
Dare to do something different
Ride the waves at beautiful Joss Bay with the Surf School (open from Easter) choosing from surfing or stand up paddle boarding, group or private lessons), or head to Kent Surf School (open from April).
Get back to nature on a Doctor Forager walk along the coastline, before creating a warming lunch made from the foraged food.
Unleash the artistic talents you never knew you had by embarking on a new hobby and tick it off your bucket list. Or return to a craft you tried once before – remember how much you enjoyed it? All around the Isle you can find workshops and courses, as well as taster days for some spontaneous have-a-go fun.
However you choose to spend your Spring time, you won’t be disappointed when you visit Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate and the surrounding villages.
