We're pleased to be bringing the Thanet Open Top bus back for another season in 2026, celebrating 10 years with a refreshed look and new route!

Looking for things to do in Thanet or Kent in 2026?

The Thanet Open Top bus links Minnis Bay, Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate, making it a fun way to get around the coast.

You can hop on and hop off along the way, making it a flexible option for family days out and seaside trips during the Easter holidays, May half term and summer.

New for 2026: the route now includes Broadstairs High Street, bringing you closer to the beach, shops and places to eat.

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Places to visit along the route

 

Minnis Bay beach

One of Thanet's widest sandy beaches, perfect for long walks and sea views. A peaceful spot for swimming, kitesurfing and watching the sunset.

Hop off at Minnis Bay, Canute Road

 

 

Dreamland

Margate's famous vintage amusement park with classic rides, street food and live events. See the historic Scenic Railway, Britain's oldest rollercoaster, which has stood here for over 100 years.

Hop off at Margate, Marine Terrace

 

 

 

Cliftonville & Northdown Road

Explore Northdown Road, ranked one of Time Out's Coolest Streets in the World 2025. Packed with independent shops, cafes and local eateries.

Hop off at Cliftonville Esplanade

 

Viking Bay

A beautiful sandy beach with colourful beach huts and a lively promenade. Perfect for paddling, seaside cafes and traditional bucket-and-spade days.

Hop off at Broadstairs, Victoria Parade

 

 

 

Ramsgate Tunnels

Explore a fascinating network of WWII tunnels that once sheltered thousands of local residents during air raids. Guided tours bring this remarkable underground history to life.

Hop off at Ramsgate, Granville Theatre

 

 

  

Ramsgate Harbour

The UK's only Royal Harbour, lined with colourful boats, restaurants and cafes. A great place to relax by the water or watch the marina come to life.

Hop off at Ramsgate Harbour

 

 

 

Ramsgate Boating Pool

A family favourite with pedalos, parkland and sea views. Perfect for a relaxed stop along the coast or a picnic by the water.

Hop off at Ramsgate Boating Pool

 

 

 

 

Peter's Fish Factory

A Thanet favourite serving traditional fish and chips since 1984. Enjoy this seaside staple at the original shop in Margate or the harbour-side branch in Ramsgate.

Hop off in Margate, Marine Terrace or Ramsgate Harbour

 

 

Dicken House Museum / Bleak House

Discover the seaside town that inspired Charles Dickens. Visit the Dickens House Museum and see Bleak House, the clifftop home linked to the famous author.

Hop off at Broadstairs, Victoria Parade

 

 

 

Morelli's

Step into a retro ice-cream parlour serving delicious Italian gelato since 1932. A Broadstairs institution and the perfect seaside treat.

Hop off at Broadstairs, Victoria Parade

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When the Thanet Open Top runs in 2026

• 3 - 19 April (Easter Holidays)

• 23 - 31 May (May half term)

• Weekends from 6 June

• Daily during the summer holidays (22 July - 31 August)

• 5 & 6 September

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Tickets

• Adult Day Ticket £8

• Discounted Under 19s and Concessions Day Ticket £5

• Group Day Ticket (up to 5 people) £22

• Under 5s travel free!
• Due to this being a special service, Thanet Open Top single tickets are not included in the £3 single fare cap. Single tickets are available at the same price as a Day Ticket. 

Concessions Day Tickets are available to buy on bus only at a discounted rate and you must show a valid concessions pass to purchase. 

Thanet and South East EveningRider, DayRider, 7 Day MegaRider, 28 Day MegaRider, Flexi5, Flexi10 and Xtra tickets (including Adult, Under 19 and Group) are not accepted on this service. UoK & CCCU UniRider, PlusBus, NHS Pass, Kent Travel Saver, Discovery Tickets and Kid for a Quid are also not valid. Concession passes are not valid on the Thanet Open Top service.

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Frequently asked questions

Can you hop on and off the Thanet Open Top Bus?

Yes, a Thanet Open Top Day Ticket gives you unlimited travel for the day, so you can get off to explore Thanet's towns and rejoin the service as often as you like.

Where can I buy tickets?

You can buy tickets from the driver on the Thanet Open Top bus or in advance on the Stagecoach Bus App(excluding Concessions Day Tickets which can be purchased on bus only).

Thanet Open Top Day Tickets can also be used on local Stagecoach buses in Thanet (including the 8, 8A, 8X, 9, 9X, 32, 34, 48 and the Loop) within the Thanet DayRider zone.

An Adult, Under 19s, Concessions and Group Thanet Open Top Day Ticket allow you to hop on and hop off the Thanet Open Top bus all day.

What places does the bus go to?

The route includes stops at Minnis Bay, Westbrook, Margate, Cliftonville, Broadstairs, Dumpton Gap and Ramsgate.

Is it suitable for families?

Yes! It's a fun and flexible option for a family day out, with open-top views along the coast.

Please note children under 15 must be accompanied by a responsible adult to sit on the top deck.

Do I need to plan in advance?

No, you can turn up and travel, buying your ticket from the driver.

If you prefer to plan ahead, you can use the Stagecoach Bus App to plan your journey, track your bus and buy tickets in advance.

Whether you're panning ahead or just turning up on the day, the Thanet Open Top bus is an exciting and unique way to explore the Thanet coast!