An island only by name on the northern tip of east Kent, Thanet has lovely coves and wide sandy beaches, most popular Margate for its easy access from London, motorway/and dual carriageway or direct rail line. The main beach has all you would expect for family entertainment with nearby funfair, arcades and affordable eating venues.
Walpole Living Museum in Margate ©Solange HandoBut if you like more than the beach, a must-see for art lovers is the Turner Contemporary named after the artist who painted the sunset on this spot, free entrance. Also worth considering is the Walpole Living Museum for an amazing picture of bygone days, character accommodation and cream tea, Sunday roast and lunch available to anyone.
Facing east just around the corner, Broadstairs is a lovely resort, with a crescent beach nestling below the cliffs. It is more exclusive than Margate, usually quieter, almost village-like with lanes winding down to the beach. It's best to park some distance away from the shore, especially during festival week.
The Dickens Festival is usually held in June when locals dress in traditional costumes for the Grand Parade, the country fair and beach parties, including paddling and swimming in appropriate gear.
Dickens first came to Broadstairs at the age of 25 then returned on several occasions, finding inspiration for David Copperfield.
Just south of Broadstairs and within walking distance, you reach Ramsgate with a glistening harbour right in the town centre, a long sandy beach where the future Queen Victoria came to play as a child and a scenic walk along the clifftop with superb views across the Channel and the French coast by clear weather.
This may be your highlight on the Viking Trail as you reach Pegwell Bay on the edge of Ramsgate. It is a replica of course but it sailed all the way from Denmark in 1949, using traditional instruments, to commemorate the 1500th anniversary of the Viking invasion.
