Top 10 Things to Do in Broadstairs for a Perfect Seaside Getaway

11 Jul

Introduction to Broadstairs

Broadstairs is a charming seaside town in Kent, located on the Isle of Thanet, famous for its sandy bays and connections to Charles Dickens, who loved Broadstairs and wrote parts of David Copperfield there. Dickens affectionately called Broadstairs 'Our English Watering Place,' highlighting its historical significance as a classic seaside resort.

The town offers a range of outdoor adventures, including a scenic seaside walk along the Viking Coastal Trail, which takes you through Viking Bay, Stone Bay, and Joss Bay.

Visitors can enjoy the town’s cosy pubs, art galleries, and historic landmarks, such as Bleak House, which overlooks Viking Bay and is now a private house.

Broadstairs is perfectly positioned for family days out, with its beautiful beaches, rock pools, and children’s rides, making it an ideal destination for a UK seaside getaway.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip to Broadstairs, timing is everything. The town truly comes alive during the summer months, especially in June, when the famous Dickens Festival fills the high street and clifftop promenade with costumed characters, live performances, and a celebration of Charles Dickens’ enduring legacy. Folk Week is another highlight, bringing the sound of folk music and dance to the sandy bays and charming cafes that line the coast. These events make Broadstairs a vibrant and unforgettable seaside destination, so be sure to check the calendar and book your stay early—hotels like the Royal Albion Hotel, perfectly positioned overlooking Viking Bay, are in high demand during high season.

Accommodation options in Broadstairs cater to every taste, from boutique hotels and cosy B&Bs to self-catering cottages tucked away near the beach or along the bustling high street. For a touch of history, consider staying in a hotel that once welcomed Dickens himself, or opt for a modern apartment with sweeping views of the English Channel and the dramatic chalk cliffs.

Getting to Broadstairs is a breeze, whether you’re arriving by car or hopping on a train from London. The town offers several convenient car parks, including spaces close to the beach and the town centre, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Once you’ve arrived, the best way to soak up the seaside atmosphere is on foot—wander along the clifftop promenade for panoramic views of Viking Bay, or set out on the Viking Coastal Trail for an outdoor adventure along the stunning coastline.

Food lovers will find plenty to tempt their taste buds, from traditional fish and chips to restaurants serving locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss the chance to sample Broadstairs’ best ice cream at iconic spots like Morelli’s Gelato or Chiappini’s, perfect for a treat after a day spent exploring art galleries or relaxing by the harbour. In the evenings, the town’s lively spirit continues, with live music at the Palace Cinema, cosy pubs, and the gentle buzz of life along the waterfront.

Whether you’re visiting for the Dickens Festival, a family beach holiday, or a romantic seaside walk, Broadstairs offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its famous sandy bays, welcoming hotels, and a calendar packed with events, this charming Kent town is ready to make your next seaside getaway truly special.

Beaches and Coastal Activities

Viking Bay is the main beach in Broadstairs, featuring a clifftop promenade and boardwalk, beach huts, and a surf school for all ages.
Stone Bay is a quieter beach with a car park and rock pools, ideal for fossil hunting and swimming. Access to the beach and rock pools can be limited at high tide, so it's important to check the tide times before visiting.
Botany Bay is a popular spot for beach activities, with its chalk cliffs, rock pools, and scenic views of the sea and the English Channel.
Joss Bay is known for its surf school and is a great spot for water sports and outdoor adventures.
Dumpton Gap is a scenic spot along the Thanet coast, perfect for coastal walks, resting, picnicking, and enjoying views of the cliffs, marine life, and birdwatching.

Historic Landmarks and Charles Dickens Connections

Bleak House is a historic landmark in Broadstairs, famously associated with Charles Dickens, who wrote parts of David Copperfield there. Dickens' visits to Broadstairs greatly influenced the town's heritage and are celebrated throughout the area.
The Royal Albion Hotel is another historic landmark, with its stunning views of Viking Bay and connections to Dickens.
Broadstairs Harbour is a charming spot to visit, serving as a central landmark with picturesque views of the town and Viking Bay, and offering a range of cafes and shops nearby.
Broadstairs has a rich history, with its connections to Dickens and its role as a seaside resort in the 19th century.

Arts and Culture

The Palace Cinema is a popular attraction in Broadstairs, showing a range of films and hosting events throughout the year.
The Broadstairs Gallery is a showcase for local art, with its range of exhibitions and workshops.
The town hosts a range of festivals, including the Dickens Festival and Folk Week, which celebrate its rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can enjoy the town’s charming high street, with its range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Food and Drink

Broadstairs is famous for its ice cream, with a range of shops and cafes serving delicious treats.
The town has a range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, serving locally sourced ingredients and traditional seaside fare. After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of the local restaurants, where you can savor traditional or regional dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy a range of seafood dishes, including fish and chips, at one of the town’s many eateries.
The Old Bakehouse is a popular spot for breakfast and brunch, with its range of delicious pastries and sandwiches.

Events and Festivals

The Dickens Festival is a popular event in Broadstairs, celebrating the town’s connections to Charles Dickens.
Folk Week is another major festival, with its range of music, dance, and craft events.
The town hosts a range of other events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and fairs.
Visitors can enjoy the town’s lively atmosphere, with its range of street performers and live music events.

Activities and Entertainment

Broadstairs has a range of activities and entertainment options, including mini golf, surfing, and swimming.
Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding, in the town’s beautiful bays.
The town has a range of parks and gardens, including the picturesque Victoria Gardens, which are perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Visitors can enjoy a range of walks, including the scenic seaside walk along the Viking Coastal Trail, which has been walked by countless visitors seeking to experience the stunning coastal views.

Family-Friendly Activities

Broadstairs is a great destination for families, with its range of beaches, parks, and outdoor activities.
The town has a range of family-friendly attractions, including the mini golf course and the Palace Cinema.
Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports and activities, including surfing and swimming, which are perfect for families.
The town’s charming high street is a great place to explore, with its range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Accommodation and Travel

Broadstairs has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering apartments.
The town is easily accessible by car, with its range of car parks and parking options.
Visitors can also travel to Broadstairs by train or bus, with its range of public transport options.
The town is perfectly positioned for exploring the surrounding area and is part of a group of scenic seaside towns, including Ramsgate and Margate, which are easily accessible for day trips.

Shopping and Markets

Broadstairs has a range of shops and markets, including its charming high street and historic harbour.
Visitors can enjoy a range of unique and independent shops, including art galleries and craft shops.
The town hosts a range of markets throughout the year, including the popular weekly market.
Visitors can find a range of souvenirs and gifts, including locally made crafts and artwork.

Outdoor Activities

Broadstairs is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its range of beaches, parks, and outdoor activities.
Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
The town has a range of walks, including the scenic seaside walk along the Viking Coastal Trail, as well as dramatic cliff-top walks that offer impressive views of the coastline.
Visitors can also enjoy a range of cycling routes, including the popular Viking Trail.

Insider Tips

Visitors should be sure to try some of the town’s famous ice cream, which is available at a range of shops and cafes.
The town’s charming high street is a great place to explore, with its range of unique and independent shops.
Visitors should be sure to check out the town’s range of events and festivals, including the Dickens Festival and Folk Week.
The town’s beautiful beaches and bays are perfect for swimming, surfing, and other water sports.

Conclusion

Broadstairs is a charming seaside town in Kent, with its range of beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities.

The town is perfectly positioned for family days out, with its range of beaches, parks, and outdoor activities.

Visitors can enjoy a range of events and festivals, including the Dickens Festival and Folk Week.

Broadstairs is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its range of water sports, walks, and cycling routes. Many people have visited Broadstairs and enjoyed its attractions, making it a popular choice for those seeking a memorable getaway.

Ricky Whiting