Looking for top-notch activities in Thanet without the headache of fixed events or ticketed timings? Whether you’re wrangling kids, on a couple’s getaway, or just craving a proper day out by the sea, these five all weather, always-available gems are your go-to list.
1. Dreamland Margate – Classic Rides, Big Smiles
Open Daily: 5–21 April, then weekends and school holidays
Location: Margate Seafront
Price: Free entry – ride wristbands from £12.99 to £24.99
Thanet’s retro fun park is back in full swing with all your vintage favourites think Scenic Railway, Big Wheel, and Dodgems plus a splash-tastic log flume and a modern Roller Room.
There’s food, arcade games, and plenty of space to just chill on the seafront green while the kids run wild.
Bruce’s Tip: Go for the wristband. The kids will want more than one go on everything, and you’ll save a fortune in tokens.
2. Sea Searcher Boat Trips – Seals & Sea Breezes
Next Tours:
Friday 18 April – 2:00 PM Saturday 26 April – 11:00 AM Sunday 27 April – 10:00 AM & 12:00 PM Location: Ramsgate Harbour Price: From £5 to £25 depending on trip
These sea safaris are the real deal head out from Ramsgate Harbour to spot cheeky seals, hear tales of the coastline, or just soak up the sea breeze on a relaxing cruise.
Bruce’s Tip: Book online they fill up quick during holidays and weekends, especially the seal trips.
3. Rascal Bay Crazy Golf – Manston Madness
Open Daily: Weather dependent
Location: Manston Golf Centre
Price: Adults £7.50 / Kids £6.50 / Family deals available
You’re not ready for how epic this mini golf course is. We’re talking pirates, dinosaurs, cannons, shipwrecks, and even a loop-the-loop shot. It’s cartoon chaos in the best possible way.
Bruce’s Tip: There’s a proper golf driving range next door – perfect for blowing off steam (or showing off) once you’ve wrapped up the 18 holes.
4. Quex Park Super Day Out – Golf, Alpacas, and a Museum Too!
Open Daily: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Quex Park, Birchington
Price: Activities priced separately (Adventure Golf ~£7.50, Museum entry, etc.)
This isn’t just one attraction – it’s a full day’s adventure under one massive family-friendly roof:
Quex Adventure Golf: 18 holes of lush tropical-themed fun Jungle Jim’s Soft Play: Indoors, wild, and brilliant for under 10s Alpaca Walking: Yep, you can actually stroll the grounds with an alpaca! Powell-Cotton Museum: Epic African and Asian wildlife dioramas, Victorian curios, and more Quex House: Take a guided tour of the family home for some old-school charm
Bruce’s Tip: Bring a picnic or hit the café there’s more to do here than you can knock over in one go, so plan to stay a while.
5. Shell Grotto – Margate’s Underground Mystery
Open Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Grotto Hill, Margate
Price: Adults £4.50 / Kids £2 / Under 4s free
Discovered in 1835, this mysterious underground tunnel is lined with 4.6 million shells, arranged in swirling, hypnotic patterns. No one knows who built it or why – but it’s absolutely mesmerising.
Whether you’re a history buff or just fancy doing something totally different, this hidden gem is a winner.
Bruce’s Tip: Pair it with a walk through Margate Old Town loads of quirky shops and decent coffee just up the road.
Final Thoughts
From dinosaurs to dolphins, rollercoasters to rare shells, Thanet’s got a cracking mix of fun that’s open most days and ready when you are. These five picks are easy to plan, won’t break the bank, and guarantee smiles all round.
Got another hidden gem you reckon deserves a spot? Tag us or drop a comment on the blog – we’re always up for discovering more!
Written by Bruce – part-time travel guide, full-time fun-seeker. Catch more tips at ExploreThanet.co.uk or follow us on socials for updates and ideas.
