Westgate-on-Sea Area Guide | Living, Beaches, Property and Lifestyle in Westgate, Thanet

Westgate-on-Sea is one of the most elegant and peaceful seaside towns in Thanet, located between the vibrant coastal destinations of Margate and Birchington. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches, charming Victorian architecture and relaxed coastal lifestyle, Westgate-on-Sea has become increasingly popular with both local residents and buyers relocating from London.

Many people first discover Westgate-on-Sea while exploring the Thanet coastline, but quickly realise it offers something rare on the Kent coast – a genuine village atmosphere combined with excellent transport links and beautiful seaside scenery.

For anyone searching for property in Westgate-on-Sea, the town offers an appealing mix of period homes, seafront apartments and character houses, all within walking distance of the beach.

The History of Westgate-on-Sea

Westgate developed as a seaside resort during the Victorian era, particularly after the construction of the lower promenade and the railway connection to London. Many of the town’s most impressive properties were built during the 1860s around St Mildred’s Bay and West Bay.

Originally St Mildred’s Bay was known as Marsh Bay and is named after Mildrith, the patron saint of Thanet and abbess of Minster Abbey.

By the late nineteenth century much of the resort had come into the ownership of Coutts Bank following the bankruptcy of the original developers. Despite this, Westgate flourished as a fashionable coastal retreat.

During the 1920s and 1930s the town became extremely popular with Londoners seeking holiday homes by the sea. Many visitors fell in love with the relaxed atmosphere and later returned to settle permanently.

The legacy of this period is still visible today in the elegant Victorian, Edwardian and 1930s villas that line the leafy streets close to the seafront.

Westgate Beaches and Seafront

Westgate is blessed with two beautiful sandy beaches – St Mildred’s Bay and West Bay.

Both offer safe bathing waters, sweeping sea views and some of the best sunsets on the Kent coast.

Unlike busier resorts, Westgate retains a peaceful traditional seaside character. Deckchairs, beach huts and family friendly cafés create the feeling of a classic British seaside holiday.

The promenade is perfect for walking, cycling or simply enjoying the sea air. The Viking Coastal Trail passes directly through the town linking Westgate to Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate.

Architecture and Property in Westgate-on-Sea

Westgate-on-Sea is widely admired for its attractive period architecture. Many properties were built as elegant seaside residences and retain beautiful original features.

The area includes:

Victorian seaside villas

Edwardian family homes

1930s coastal houses

Seafront apartments with panoramic sea views

Converted period buildings

These homes are often located within walking distance of the beach, station and village centre, making Westgate highly desirable for buyers relocating from London.

Westgate Village and Station Road

At the heart of Westgate lies Station Road, a charming Edwardian shopping parade with traditional canopies and a wonderful mix of independent shops, cafés and everyday services.

The high street provides everything residents need including:

Independent cafés and bakeries

Antique and furniture shops

Florists and gift shops

Hair and beauty salons

Local convenience stores

Restaurants and takeaways

The atmosphere remains very much that of a traditional seaside village rather than a busy commercial town centre.

Cafés, Restaurants and Local Food

Westgate-on-Sea has developed a growing reputation for excellent cafés and independent restaurants.

Residents and visitors can enjoy everything from traditional seaside cafés to modern coffee shops and bistros.

Nearby Margate and Cliftonville have also become major food destinations with highly regarded restaurants and cafés that attract visitors from across the country.

The wider Thanet area now features an exciting mix of food venues including artisan bakeries, seafood restaurants, international cuisine and modern coastal dining experiences.

Schools in Westgate

Westgate is also popular with families due to its access to well regarded local schools.

The Ursuline College, founded by Ursuline nuns who fled France in 1904, remains one of the area's most respected secondary schools.

Several excellent primary schools are located within easy reach, while the grammar schools in nearby Broadstairs and Ramsgate are also popular choices.

Transport and Commuting to London

Westgate-on-Sea railway station offers direct high-speed services to London St Pancras.

Journey times can be around 90 minutes, making Westgate increasingly popular with commuters seeking a coastal lifestyle while working in London.

The nearby Thanet Parkway station has further improved rail connections to the capital and across Kent.

Leisure and Outdoor Activities

Westgate offers an enviable outdoor lifestyle.

Activities include:

Coastal walks along the Viking Coastal Trail

Beach activities and swimming

Golf at the nearby Westgate and Birchington Golf Club

Cycling along the Thanet coast

Sea kayaking and paddle boarding

The open green spaces along the clifftops are ideal for walking, relaxing and enjoying the views across the English Channel.

The Carlton Cinema

The Carlton Cinema remains a beloved local landmark. Originally opened in the 1930s, it continues to offer a traditional cinema experience with multiple screens showing the latest films.

It is a wonderful reminder of Westgate’s long association with leisure and seaside entertainment.

Westgate Lifestyle

Life in Westgate-on-Sea offers something special. It combines the charm of a traditional English seaside town with the benefits of modern connectivity.

Many people who visit Westgate quickly realise why it has become one of Thanet’s most desirable places to live.

The peaceful beaches, elegant architecture, independent shops and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for families, retirees and professionals alike.

Why People Move to Westgate-on-Sea

Buyers relocating from London often choose Westgate because it offers:

Beautiful sandy beaches

Character period homes

Quiet seaside lifestyle

Excellent train connections to London

Strong local community

Easy access to Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate

Property in Westgate-on-Sea

Westgate continues to attract buyers looking for coastal homes with character and space.

Demand for period houses, seafront apartments and family homes close to the beach remains strong.

If you are considering buying, selling or renting property in Westgate-on-Sea, the experienced team at Cooke & Co are always happy to help.

About Cooke & Co Estate Agents

Cooke & Co have been helping clients move along the Thanet coast since 1992.

Our offices in Margate, Ramsgate and Broadstairs provide expert local knowledge across Westgate-on-Sea, Birchington, Cliftonville, Margate and the wider Thanet area.

If you would like advice about moving to Westgate-on-Sea or would like a valuation of your property, please contact our team.

We would be delighted to assist you.