Words: Jo Davies
Ramsgate draws many visitors to its scenic shorelines and historic landmarks. Along with its rich maritime history, Ramsgate Harbour bustles with fishing boats and yachts and offers panoramic views of the English Channel. Sandy beaches, cliff walks and waterfront eateries all appeal, while museums and galleries tell tales of seafaring adventures. London is just 90 minutes by train, and coastal gems like Broadstairs and Margate are a short drive away.
DAY 1
9am Breakfast with a view Ramsgate has a wealth of great culinary offerings, from cafés to restaurants to chip shops. You can sample several along the waterfront, including the Ship Shape Café. The rustic waterside spot is tucked away beneath the Royal Parade, offering plenty of breakfast options. Enjoy a full English in their jaunty nautical interior, or homemade cake on the patio, with a view of the bustling quayside. Tel 01843 597 000
10.30am Historic harbour After breakfast, take a turn around the historic marina. Lined with cafés, bars and shops, this is the only royal harbour in the country. It was granted its status by George IV in 1821 as a thank you for the town’s hospitality and is now home to a scenic marina and waterfront walkways.
ramsgateroyalharbour.co.uk
11am All aboard! If you’re in the mood for some bracing sea air, a boat trip is the perfect opportunity.
Go2Sea offers unique tours in its Arctic 28 ex-Special Forces RIB. Owner Stuart will be at the helm for the trip, and the choice of voyages includes the chance to spot seals in Pegwell Bay. Tours meet at the orange hut by the Maritime Museum and cost £30 per person. go2sea.co.uk
12.30pm Lunch break Perched on an arm of the marina, the Royal Harbour Brasserie is a perfect spot for lunch. The inviting seafood restaurant overlooks the town and the surrounding coastline, offering a superb menu bursting with vibrant dishes, elegant starters and famously delicious desserts.
royalharbourbrasserie.co.uk
2pm Into the tunnels Wander down the East Pier to Ramsgate Main Sands, a stretch of sheltered beach overlooking dramatic white cliffs.
This beautiful bay is a popular spot in summer, equipped with all of the facilities a beach-loving family might need.
After walking along the shore, you’ll come to the Ramsgate Tunnels, the UK’s largest network of civilian wartime tunnels, dating all the way
