Between Margate And Ramsgate Is A Charming Coastal Town With Markets, History, And Award-Winning Beaches

The Kent Coast spans more than 350 miles and is home to some of England's most serene destinations, complete with wild marshes, chalk cliffs, and incredible natural views. But what if you're looking for someplace with a livelier feel that still delivers on the charming and picturesque fronts? That's when you add Broadstairs to your bucket list. Home to over 25,000 residents and fun local events, this is a place characterized by a mix of Edwardian and Victorian terraces and luxury modern properties, not to mention an array of visit-worthy attractions.

Visitors can enjoy award-winning beaches, vibrant markets and festivals, and more. Broadstairs also has a long history that dates back to the late 1000s and a strong connection to Charles Dickens, who was a regular visitor. The main draw, however, remains the waterfront, known for its soft sand, traditional promenades, and cliff views.

But how to get to Broadstairs? The town is located between Margate and Ramsgate, and very close to both, too — think transit times of less than 10 minutes whether you're traveling by car or train. London is farther away at around two hours, but still close enough for travelers to take on the back-and-forth. The capital is also where fliers will find some of the most convenient entryways, especially London Gatwick Airport (LGW), which takes between one and a half and two and a half hours to reach depending on traffic and your preferred mode of transportation. You'll also get options when choosing how you want to get around. Broadstairs is home to a well-connected rail station plus a variety of local buses, not to mention the town itself is pretty walkable, making it possible to forgo a rental car altogether. The town is a prime example of how available and easy public transportation is in the UK. 

Thanks to its unrestricted North Sea access and coastal allure, Broadstairs draws in packs of tourists during the summer months. The town has been described as "utterly charming" in a firsthand account featured in Unknown Kent and Sussex. You can experience it all yourself by visiting one of the seven local beaches, starting with Viking Bay. This central, family-friendly beach is known for its traditional, nostalgic feel, complete with beach huts and deck chairs.

Visitors can sunbathe in the golden sand, surf, or go crabbing, and little ones can enjoy the vintage boat swings. There's a clifftop promenade adding to its classic beauty. Just remember to check the tide forecast before going — medium and high water levels are better for swimming, while low tide creates opportunities for rock pooling. The horseshoe-shaped beach is also famous for being one of Charles Dickens' favorite summer escapes, with the author even writing the warm-hearted "Our English Watering Place" about Broadstairs. In modern times, Viking Bay has been recognized with a Seaside Award by Visit South East England.

Broadstairs also boasts two Blue Flag eco-certified beaches, Botany Bay and Joss Bay. The latter is a sandy stretch of a little over 650 feet and a popular surfing spot — there's even a surf school that rents out wetsuits and equipment. If you want to take it easy, though, just sit on a lounger and admire the panoramic views while enjoying refreshments from the nearby cafe. Amenities include accessible restrooms, on-site parking, and BBQ spots (though these can only be used after 6 p.m.). 

Broadstairs' roots date back to around 1080, giving history buffs plenty to look forward to. Start the tour at York Gate, a 15th-to 16th-century archway characterized by a pointed structure. Once used as protection against smugglers, the gate now serves a more welcoming, aesthetic function as one of the town's entryways. That said, no historical experience in Broadstairs would be complete without a visit to the Dickens House Museum, built to immortalize the author's connection to the town. The literary legend visited regularly between 1837 and 1851, and the building is the very cottage that served as Dickens' inspiration for the home of Betsey Trotwood in 'David Copperfield." Inside, you'll see a collection of handwritten letters, writing equipment, and original prints by one of the author's main illustrators, H. K. Browne. Pass by Bleak House next. It famously overlooks Viking Bay and was Dickens' favorite holiday home, though today the building operates as a bed and breakfast and event venue.

The town also hosts a Dickens Festival, the largest of its kind in the world, celebrated with theatrical displays, costumed characters, and a Dickensian bathing party. The unique attractions are just part of the reason why, even though nearby Margate might be better known and a coastal haven with sandy beaches, art galleries, and a mysterious underground grotto, Broadstairs still hold its own. 

Locals also host antique fairs, classic car rallies, and a farmers market that usually takes place the second Sunday of every month. The Holy Trinity Saturday Market is another popular pick. Held indoors, this is the place to browse for china, books, plants, and other goods sold by independent vendors. Refreshments are offered on-site.  And after you've enjoyed the sights of Broadstairs, consider a 20-minute train to Herne Bay, a vibrant town with beaches, shops, and a historic pier.