Discover Broadstairs: A Quintessential English Seaside Town

Located on Kent's east coast, Broadstairs is a beloved beach getaway, particularly for Londoners seeking a respite from city life. The town rose to prominence with the advent of Victorian rail travel and the frequent visits of Charles Dickens. Today, Broadstairs retains its coastal allure, with its cliff-top promenade offering views over Viking Bay and the main beach.

Modern Broadstairs blends the old with the new, transforming historic inns into boutique accommodations and seafood eateries, while former townhomes now host art galleries and upscale shops. English-speaking guides enhance the experience of your Great Britain trip. The town's beaches remain a draw, with London just 1.5 hours away, making it an ideal day-trip for families and adventure-seekers who enjoy activities like surfing and hiking the Viking Coastal Trail.

1. Broadstairs Main Beach: Viking Bay

Viking Bay Beach, the main beach in Broadstairs, is a sandy haven surrounded by stunning views. It boasts a Blue Flag status, lifeguards in peak months, a tidal pool, and a surf school. Nearby attractions include Broadstairs Harbor and Bleak House, where Dickens wrote "David Copperfield." A cliff-side elevator provides easy access to the town.

Address: Victoria Parade, Broadstairs, Kent

2. Joss Bay

Joss Bay, a short distance from Broadstairs, is a family-friendly beach known for its soft sand and safe swimming conditions. It's a hotspot for surfers, with one of Kent's oldest surf schools, and offers kayaking and jet skiing. The beach is also linked to the Viking Coastal Trail.

Address: Joss Gap Road, Broadstairs, Kent

3. Botany Bay

Botany Bay Beach is famous for its golden sands and dramatic cliffs. It's a Blue Flag beach ideal for swimming, kayaking, and rock pooling. Facilities include lifeguards, a restaurant, and a café.

Address: Marine Drive, Cliftonville, Broadstairs, Kent

4. Stone Bay

Stone Bay, a tranquil beach near Viking Bay, is family-friendly and offers a Blue Flag status for its water quality. The beach has shallow waters and lifeguards during summer.

5. Kingsgate Bay

Kingsgate Bay is a quieter beach with a sandy shore and sea caves to explore. It's dog-friendly and features Kingsgate Castle, now a restaurant with stunning views.

Address: Whiteness Road, Broadstairs, Kent

6. Dumpton Gap

Dumpton Gap is a secluded beach close to Broadstairs, suitable for quieter beach days and dog-friendly all year round. It offers amenities like beach hut rentals and a snack vendor.

Address: Dumpton Gap Road, Broadstairs, Kent

7. Louisa Bay

Louisa Bay is a peaceful alternative to the main beach, with rock pools and a beachside kiosk. It's accessible from Ramsgate and is part of the Viking Coastal Trail.

Address: Louisa Bay, Queens Gardens, Broadstairs, Kent

8. Ramsgate Main Sands, Ramsgate

Ramsgate Main Sands is a bustling beach with lifeguards, water sports, and a lively promenade. It's a great spot for families and offers fresh seafood and amusement arcades.

Address: Marina Esplanade, Ramsgate, Ramsgate, Kent

For a memorable English seaside experience, Broadstairs and its surrounding beaches are a must-visit, offering a blend of historical charm and modern-day amenities.