Discover the Best Attractions in Thanet, Kent
Thanet is one of the most vibrant and fascinating coastal destinations in the South East of England. Located on the north east tip of Kent, the area includes the historic seaside towns of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate.
Thanet combines beautiful sandy beaches, historic landmarks, world class art, independent shops, family attractions and a thriving cultural scene. Over recent years the area has become one of the most talked about coastal destinations in the UK, attracting visitors, artists and home buyers alike.
Whether you are visiting for the day, enjoying a weekend break, or considering relocating to the coast, Thanet offers something for everyone.
Art, Culture and Creative Attractions
Turner Contemporary – Margate
The Turner Contemporary gallery is one of the UK’s leading modern art venues. Located directly on Margate’s seafront, the gallery celebrates the work of J.M.W. Turner, who frequently painted the dramatic skies and coastline of Thanet.
The gallery also hosts major contemporary exhibitions and has played a huge role in Margate’s cultural regeneration.
The Tracey Emin Connection
Margate is also closely associated with world famous artist Tracey Emin, who grew up in the town. Emin has been instrumental in helping bring global attention back to Margate’s creative scene.
Her ambitious TKE Studios project continues to attract artists and creative businesses to the area.
Margate’s Creative Scene
Margate Old Town has become a hub for artists, galleries, designers and creative entrepreneurs. Independent art galleries, vintage shops and studios line the historic streets, creating a unique cultural atmosphere.
Margate – The Famous Seaside Revival
Dreamland Amusement Park
Dreamland is one of the most famous seaside amusement parks in the country. Restored to its former glory, it combines historic rides with modern entertainment, music festivals and events.
The famous Scenic Railway roller coaster is one of the oldest surviving wooden roller coasters in the world.
Shell Grotto
The mysterious Shell Grotto is one of Margate’s most unusual attractions. Discovered in 1835, the underground tunnels are decorated with millions of shells forming intricate patterns. No one knows exactly why it was created.
Margate Caves
The Margate Caves are historic chalk caves beneath the town that have been carefully restored and opened to visitors.
Broadstairs – The Jewel of the Thanet Coast
Dickens House Museum
Charles Dickens spent many holidays in Broadstairs and used the town as inspiration for his writing. The Dickens House Museum celebrates his connection to the town.
Bleak House
This striking clifftop property overlooks Viking Bay and was once used by Dickens while writing parts of David Copperfield.
Crampton Tower Museum
This unique Victorian tower built by railway engineer Thomas Crampton now houses model railways and railway heritage displays.
Ramsgate – Historic Harbour and Architecture
Ramsgate Royal Harbour
Ramsgate boasts the only Royal Harbour in the United Kingdom. The marina is filled with yachts, restaurants and historic maritime buildings.
Ramsgate Tunnels
These remarkable wartime tunnels sheltered thousands of residents during the Second World War. Guided tours allow visitors to experience this extraordinary underground network.
Pugin’s House – The Grange
Architect Augustus Pugin designed The Grange in Ramsgate. Pugin also designed the interiors of the Houses of Parliament.
Beautiful Beaches of Thanet
Thanet is famous for its spectacular sandy beaches and dramatic coastline.
- Viking Bay – Broadstairs
- Botany Bay – famous chalk stacks
- Joss Bay – popular with surfers
- Stone Bay
- Margate Main Sands
- Westbrook Bay
- Ramsgate Main Sands
- Dumpton Gap
These beaches offer swimming, surfing, paddle boarding, fossil hunting and spectacular sunsets across the English Channel.
Parks, Nature and Outdoor Activities
Viking Coastal Trail
The Viking Coastal Trail is one of the most scenic coastal cycling routes in England. It runs approximately 32 miles around the Isle of Thanet.
Monkton Nature Reserve
Monkton Nature Reserve is home to rare orchids, wildlife habitats and fossil displays.
Italianate Greenhouse – Ramsgate
This beautifully restored Victorian greenhouse sits within King George VI Park.
Family Attractions
- Dreamland amusement park
- Hornby Visitor Centre
- Micro Museum – vintage computers and gaming
- Quex Park and Powell-Cotton Museum
- Mini golf and amusement arcades along the seafront
Shopping, Food and Local Culture
Westwood Cross Shopping Centre
Westwood Cross is the largest retail destination in Thanet with dozens of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.
Margate Old Town
Independent boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries and cafes create a unique shopping experience.
Broadstairs High Street
Broadstairs offers charming independent shops and excellent restaurants.
Festivals and Events
- Margate Jazz Festival
- Broadstairs Food Festival
- Dickens Festival Broadstairs
- Dreamland music concerts
- Margate Pride
- Summer beach festivals
Thanet’s Celebrity Connections
Margate has attracted many famous artists, musicians and creative figures. Artist Tracey Emin has strong links to the town and continues to promote Margate’s growing creative reputation.
The area has also attracted international attention from celebrities including Madonna, who has visited and supported the area’s cultural revival.
This mix of art, music, heritage and seaside charm has helped Thanet become one of the most talked about coastal destinations in the UK.
Why People Are Moving to Thanet
In recent years Thanet has become increasingly popular with people relocating from London and across the South East. The combination of coastal living, creative culture, independent businesses and fast rail connections to London makes the area particularly attractive.
At Cooke & Co we have been helping people buy, sell and rent property in Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate since 1992.
If you are considering moving to Thanet we would be delighted to help you find your perfect home.
