From island to peninsula
Thanet comprises the towns of Broadstairs, Margate and Ramsgate, along with villages like Birchington,
Minster and Monkton. The area was once separated from mainland Kent by the River Wantsum; silt deposition over the past millennium rejoined it to the mainland. This history is why it’s still called the “Isle of Thanet
.
Broadstairs – Dickens and beaches
Broadstairs is a quintessential seaside town with strong ties to Victorian author Charles Dickens. He visited regularly, and locals he met inspired characters in his books. The town hosts an annual Dickens festival with theatre shows, costumed characters, parades and trails. Visit The Crampton Tower Museum, housed in a historic water supply tower, to see rail and train artefacts.
Broadstairs’ Viking Bay features traditional Punch‑and‑Judy shows, beach rides and rock pools. Other beaches include Louisa Bay, Stone Bay and Dumpton Gap, the latter being dog‑friendly all year. While the seafront retains its vintage charm with beach chalets and a harbour pier, the food and drink scene is thriving with vibrant eateries and bars.
Ramsgate – Royal Harbour and underground history
Down the coast, Ramsgate offers views of the Royal Harbour from numerous cafés, bars and restaurants. The Royal Victoria Pavilion is reputedly the biggest pub in the UK. Nearby, the Ramsgate Tunnels reveal how 60 000 people sheltered during World War II air raids. Ramsgate’s beachfront, Ramsgate Main Sands, is another of Thanet’s beautiful beaches. The town hosts events, carnivals and festivals and has a thriving music and art scene with harbourside galleries and unique venues. For a quirky diversion, check out the Micro Museum, which houses vintage computers and video games.
Margate – Art, mystery and amusement
Margate’s cultural heart is the Turner Contemporary art gallery, known for exhibitions inspired by landscape painter J.M.W. Turner. Stroll through the old town’s independent eateries, shops and galleries, and relax on Margate Main Sands. Don’t miss the Shell Grotto — a subterranean passageway decorated with millions of shells whose origins remain a mystery — and the Margate Caves, another fascinating underground attraction. Westbrook’s Strokes Adventure Golf offers seaside fun. Nearby, Dreamland is a heritage theme park that now hosts festivals and live events.
Beyond the main towns
Thanet’s surrounding villages offer further attractions. Quex Park in Birchington features adventure golf, paintballing and a farm shop and restaurant. Nearby beaches Minnis Bay and Westgate‑on‑Sea provide additional seaside options.
Why visit Planet Thanet?
From its unique history as an island to its vibrant seaside towns and hidden gems, the Isle of Thanet offers something for everyone. Whether you’re following in Dickens’ footsteps, exploring wartime tunnels, admiring contemporary art or simply soaking up the sun on one of its many beaches, Planet Thanet invites you to discover, relax and be inspired.
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