Things To Do
in Broadstairs
Broadstairs is a quintessential English seaside town on the east Kent coast, known for its sandy beaches and chalky cliffs. The seafront promenade along Viking Bay is lined with colorful beach huts and family-friendly attractions. Its narrow lanes, independent shops, and cozy cafes give the town a timeless, village-by-the-sea vibe.
In summer it buzzes with visitors, while the off-season brings a peaceful, intimate charm with easy coastal walking and vintage charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Broadstairs and check into your accommodation. Spend the morning unpacking and enjoying a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh local pastries. Afterward, take a stroll along Viking Bay to feel the warm sea breeze and take in the stunning coastal views.
After a relaxing morning, enjoy a hearty lunch at a beachside restaurant. Spend your afternoon sunbathing on the beach or trying out various water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking. Optionally, you can explore the local shops for souvenirs or beach gear.
As the sun sets, head back to the beachfront to witness a beautiful sunset over the sea. Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant while listening to the calming waves and the cheerful chatter of fellow diners. Conclude your first day with a walk along the promenade, enjoying the crisp night air.
Start your day with a visit to the Dickens House Museum, dedicated to the life and works of Charles Dickens. Immerse yourself in the past as you explore the rooms filled with artifacts and memorabilia related to the author. Afterward, walk to the nearby Bleak House, where Dickens wrote some of his most famous novels.
Enjoy lunch at a quaint café nearby before heading to the local museum to learn more about Broadstairs' maritime history. Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming narrow streets, discovering unique shops and art galleries. Don't forget to take a break at one of the lovely parks, soaking in the greenery and tranquillity.
Have dinner at a cozy local pub and enjoy the traditional cuisine accompanied by a pint of local ale. Engage in conversation with friendly locals or fellow travelers who share your interest in Broadstairs’ rich history. End your evening with a scenic walk along the coastline, listening to the lapping waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-90 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Local attraction ticket | $10-25 |
| 🚗Gasoline | $4-6 per gallon |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and easy seaside walks
- Rich Dickensian heritage and charming Old Town atmosphere
- Relaxed nightlife and excellent seafood options
- Compact, walkable town with year-round appeal
- Seasonal crowds and limited late-night nightlife
- Some attractions and shops close in winter months
Places to Visit in Broadstairs
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic pastel beach huts with the sea as a backdrop; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Historic seaside house perched above the coastline with dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views.
Quaint house in Broadstairs linked to Charles Dickens, offering atmospheric interiors and quiet street scenes.
Tower views over Broadstairs and the coastline; great for cityscape and seascape shots.
Narrow lanes with colourful cottages and vintage shop fronts perfect for characterful street photography.
Food in Broadstairs
Broadstairs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crab, prawns, and langoustines sourced from local waters, often best enjoyed at harbour-front fish shacks or seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
Traditional battered fish with chips, mushy peas, and salt, commonly found at seafront pubs and fish bars.
Scones with clotted cream and local jam, typically served with tea in seaside cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls near the seafront offering local cheeses, baked goods, pastries, and seasonal street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Line up patiently, say please and thank you, and avoid loud behavior in public spaces. Small acts of courtesy go a long way on pavements and in shops.
Respect local rules around dogs on certain beaches and follow safety signage near cliffs and piers.
Safety
Tipping in Broadstairs
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. If service charge is not included, 10–15% is typical in restaurants; round up at casual venues or leave a small tip for good service.
Cards are widely accepted; contactless is common. Cash is still used in small shops and market stalls, though many places prefer cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days and long daylight hours make swimming and coastal walks enjoyable; expect crowds on weekends and events along the seafront.
Mild days with tidal sea breezes; autumn foliage along cliff paths adds color; quieter streets and shorter queues for attractions.
Cool to cold with occasional storms; some venues reduce hours but the coastline offers dramatic skies and intimate pubs and cafés.
Blossoms, milder temperatures, and migrating seabirds; great for walks and early season photography with fewer crowds.
Broadstairs at Night
Hiking in Broadstairs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal route along the Thanet coast linking Broadstairs with adjacent towns for scenic day-length hikes.
Clifftop paths with sea views, wildflowers in spring, and dramatic chalk cliffs.
Short, accessible hikes with sweeping coastal panoramas and photo stops.
Airports
How to reach Broadstairs by plane.
Approximately 60-70 miles away; domestic and some European flights, accessible by road and rail.
About 90-110 miles away; major international hub with frequent domestic and international flights.
Around 120-130 miles away; broad international network and low-cost carriers.
Approximately 110-120 miles away; major international airport with extensive connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of families with children, especially in summer, attracted by beaches and parks.
Stable retiree population drawn to the town’s pace, comfort, and amenities.
Significant influx during summer, with short-term visitors enjoying the coast and Dickens-related heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Active coastal sports scene with opportunities for lessons and boat hire along the shore.
Local clubs and greens offer daytime play and weekend fixtures in the warmer months.
Nearby North Foreland and other courses provide seaside views and varied terrains.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Broadstairs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pubs and cafés offer veggie mains and dairy-based options. Look for vegetable sides, seasonal salads, and pasta dishes; staff can adapt dishes upon request.