Coastal cafés, quirky streets packed with tasty treats and many, many Insta-worthy views. Yes, the towns of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate are THE places to go once those lazy, hazy days of summer set in. So what are you waiting for? Escape the humdrum and take a look at these hidden gems and local favourites, all conveniently set just a pebble’s throw from the Thanet Loop.
Morning
Your day starts in glorious Margate, the original seaside town and the perfect spot to fuel up with coffee. Just a short stroll from Cecil Street (stop M or K), the foodie haven of Curious Cupcake awaits. Set amongst quirky boutiques and galleries, this little gem offers everything from toasties and crumpets to bagels and cakes, so take your pick (and maybe a cupcake for later).
With a belly full of brunch, it’s time to head down the road to Hotpod Yoga. Step into the pod and experience yoga like never before. Feel immersed, be transported from everyday and sweat and breathe deeper for the ultimate calming retreat. Trust us, you've got to experience it to understand it.
Not into yoga? Right on the edge of glorious Margate Main Sands, The Old Kent Market is the perfect stop off for retail therapy with a difference. Set in the majestic Old Parade Cinema, this scarlet beauty houses a whole host of stalls, from tasty treats and crafts, to vinyl, cocktails and craft beers. Whatever you do, bring your cash and have the Instagram filters ready.
Feeling peckish? GBPizza’s perfect pizzas are topped with fresh, local ingredients, and are even available with a gluten free base, so your whole group can grab a slice. Word on the street is highly esteemed food critics have named these thin and crispy bases the best they’ve ever had, but we’ll let you be the judge of that.
Afternoon
After all that pizza, it’s time to hop back on the bus at Cecil Street and head a couple of stops up the road to Athelstan Road. Ranked as Kent’s number one escape room, you’re in for a treat, and a few riddles, at the Escapement. Pirates, miners and Egyptians, it’s your choice whose world you step into, but you’d best be prepared to solve a few clues along the way.
If you’re more a fan of fairgrounds and candy floss than clues and conundrums, the rainbow world of Dreamland Margate is a must. Take a turn on the Big Wheel, soar across the tracks on the Scenic Railway, or spin across the floor at the Roller Disco. Whatever you do, don’t forget to strike a pose and a few snaps for your feed, because with these colourful sights, we can guarantee it’s #nofilter.
Once you’ve torn yourself away from the giddy heights of Dreamland, you’ll be needing a little refreshment, so head to Railway Bridge, Broadstairs for your next stop. Believe it or not, just up the road you’ll find the award-winning Yard of Ale micropub. Set in a former stable complete with original cobbles, expect plenty of local cask ales, real ciders and even some local wines.
If you like a little flair with your aperitif, we recommend the quirky fun of Houdini’s Magic Bar. Step off the bus at Pierremont Hall and into a world of intrigue, cocktails and live magic! Expect the unexpected and keep your eyes open for that slight of hand.
Evening
When the sun starts setting, it’s all about those glorious Turner skies and coastal views, so hop on the bus and head to King Edward Avenue for the golden sands and candy-striped beach huts of Louisa Bay.
If you’ve still got a little energy left in the reserves, the clifftop walk from Broadstairs to Ramsgate promises some sensational views. Stroll through the gardens of the King George VI Memorial Park (and be sure to leave the path in search of the hidden beauty of the Italianate Glasshouse), before strolling into Ramsgate for the waterfront cafes and continental vibes of the Royal Harbour Marina.
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