Situated on the Kent Riviera, Broadstairs’ seaside charm has something for everyone. Discover what enchanted Charles Dickens, stroll quirky lanes and discover a spectacular coastline – all on foot!
Channel your competitive spirit at Lillyput Minigolf, a putting paradise on Victoria Parade. Finish your round with a bite to eat or cup of tea at a nearby café or tea garden.
Lillyput Minigolf
A game of mini golf is a classic seaside pastime, and Broadstairs’ Lillyput Minigolf offers a charming setting for the activity. This putting paradise is located on Victoria Parade and is a fun spot for everyone from families to date nights. You can channel your competitive side while sipping on a refreshing drink or snacking on a bite to eat.
There are a number of things to do in Broadstairs to take advantage of its beautiful coastal scenery. Stroll along the Viking Bay beaches, where you’ll find a gorgeous sweep of sand lined with colorful beach huts. You can also walk the cliffs of the town to explore some of its many rock pools. Another option is to visit the museum that honors Charles Dickens, who wrote parts of his novels here.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to spend your time in Broadstairs, you can also try walking the town trail or visiting a few of its local art galleries. For example, the Little Art Gallery in Broadstairs has a wide selection of watercolor paintings that you can take home with you. In addition, the town is known for its seafood restaurants and famous ice cream parlours. It’s also a great place to stroll through and shop for souvenirs. There’s also a good selection of pubs in the area where you can relax with a drink.
Dickens House Museum
If you’ve never been to a Dickens house museum before, it’s a must-visit while in Broadstairs. Formerly the home of Mary Pearson Strong, a woman who inspired Charles Dickens’ character Betsy Trotwood in his books, it now hosts a collection of the author’s belongings. You’ll be transported back in time as you walk through this cottage flecked with candlelight.
You can also take part in the Broadstairs Town Trail to discover more of the literary heritage the town has to offer. The trail will take you to sites that have inspired famous figures, including Thomas Russell Crampton, who was the first person to lay a cable under the Channel. The Crampton Tower Museum in a flint tower features his works and information about the Victorian engineer.
If you’re looking for more things to do in Broadstairs, try your hand at painting in one of the town’s many art galleries. The Little Art Gallery in Victoria Parade showcases the work of local artists and even hosts art lessons. Alternatively, head to the Revolution Skatepark for an indoor skating experience. If you’re feeling energetic, the park also holds scooter and climbing lessons. You can also check out the theater at Viking Bay to watch a performance or catch a film with a cinema ticket. The small Palace Cinema has a variety of movies to choose from.
Crampton Tower Museum
Located adjacent to Broadstairs railway station, this small museum is packed with history. It is a great place to learn about the town’s heritage and is ideal for families with children. It features a wealth of artefacts and exhibits about local history, engineering, and transport. It also has a large events hall available for hire. The museum is open from mid-march to the end of October.
Taking inspiration from Charles Dickens, the Dickens House Museum offers an eerily authentic experience. The cottage was the author’s inspiration for the home of Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield and provides a unique insight into how the author lived.
If you are looking for something a little more active, Revolution Skatepark is a great choice. This indoor venue is suitable for all ages and provides skating, scooter, and climbing lessons for visitors. There is even a licensed bar, making it the perfect place to relax after a hard day of activities.
Broadstairs has many restaurants and cafes that serve a wide variety of dishes. One of the best places is Wyatt and Jones, which serves small plates in an intimate setting. For a more casual meal, the Old Bakehouse is another option. For those who prefer to enjoy the beach without the crowds, Viking Bay is a great option. The cliffs above the beaches provide good vantage points and are great for walking. There are also many shops and art galleries to visit.
Viking Bay
Whether you want to enjoy a tasty ice cream treat or a juicy burger, Broadstairs is home to many delicious eateries. For a taste of the town’s history, head to Morelli’s Gelato. This legendary ice cream shop on Victoria Parade has been around since 1907 and is famous for its vintage interiors and signage.
Then, make your way over to Revolution Skatepark to indulge your inner skater. If you’re visiting with the kids, they’ll love the fact that the park also holds skating and scooter lessons.
You can also check out the town’s history with a visit to Crampton Tower Museum, which is jam-packed with railway and locomotive artefacts. The museum is named after Thomas Crampton, an innovative civil engineer from the Victorian era.
When it comes to the town’s beaches, Viking Bay is a top attraction. This central beach (previously Main Beach) is a popular spot for locals to relax on a blanket, sip a flask of tea, and read the weekend paper.
If you’re looking for a more dramatic beach, try Joss Bay Beach, Louisa Bay Beach, Stone Bay Beach, and Botany Bay Beach. And don’t miss the opportunity to take in the seaside scenery on a walking trail that features the town’s most historic landmarks. The Turner and Dickens Walk to Margate is one of the most popular self guided walks in town.
